KS5 (A Level) Curriculum

There has never been a more important time to study Geography.  We aim to instill an awe and wonder of the world around us and an understanding of the processes, both natural and human, which are changing and shaping our planet. We want students to become well informed citizens so they can contribute successfully at a local, national and global scale, developing the ability to express their own viewpoints on geographical issues and events. 

Edexcel, 9GEO

Year 12 Dynamic Landscapes

• Topic 1: Tectonic Processes and Hazards

• Topic 2: Landscape Systems, Processes and Change

• Option 2B Coastal Landscapes and Change

Year 12 Dynamic Places

• Topic 3: Globalisation

• Topic 4: Shaping Places – option 4A Regenerating Places

Year 13 Physical Systems and Sustainability

• Topic 5: The Water Cycle and Water Insecurity

• Topic 6: The Carbon Cycle and Energy Security

Year 13 Human Systems and Geopolitics 

• Topic 7: Superpowers

• Topic 8: Global Development and Connections – 8A Health, Human Rights and Intervention

Assessment

Paper 1 - Written examination: 2 hours and 15 minutes 30% of the qualification 105 marks

Section A Area of study 1, Topic 1

Section B Area of study 1, Topic 2

Section C Area of study 3, Topic 5 and Topic 6

Paper 2 - Written examination: 2 hours and 15 minutes 30% of the qualification 105 marks

Section A relates to Topics 3 and 7:

Section B relates to Topic 4:

Section C relates to Topic 8:

Paper 3 - Written examination: 2 hours and 15 minutes 20% of the qualification 70 marks

The specification contains three synoptic themes within the compulsory content areas:

• Players

• Attitudes and actions

• Futures and uncertainties. The synoptic investigation will be based on a geographical issue within a place-based context that links to the three synoptic themes and is rooted in two or more of the compulsory content areas.

Coursework: Independent Investigation (9GE0/04) Non-examined assessment 20% of the qualification 70 marks

The investigation report is internally assessed and externally moderated. A written report of 3000–4000 words.

• You will define a question or issue for investigation, relating to the compulsory or optional content. The topic may relate to any aspect of geography contained within the specification

• Your investigation will incorporate fieldwork data (collected individually or as part of a group) and own research and/or secondary data

• The fieldwork, which forms the focus and context of the individual investigation, may be either human, physical or integrated physical-human

• The investigation report will evidence independent analysis and evaluation of data, presentation of data findings and extended writing

• You will be expected to show evidence that they have used both quantitative and qualitative data to support your independent investigation as appropriate to the particular environment and/or location.

You will be expected to participate in fieldwork activities as part of the course. This will be over 4 days and is likely to cost approximately £90.