Geography

2 units for each of Preliminary and HSC Board Developed Course

Course Description:

The Preliminary Course investigates current developments in the biophysical environment including climatic patterns, action of the water cycle and changing coastal landforms. It includes an inquiry into the way biophysical processes can contribute to the sustainable management of the environment. Global studies involves an examination of the world’s population and optional topics such as political conflicts, cultural integration and the use of natural resources. Emphasis is placed on fieldwork, geographical skills and contemporary geographical issues.

The HSC Course enables students to understand and appreciate geographical perspectives about the contemporary world and includes investigations about ecosystem management, the growth of large cities and economic activities like tourism and farming. Where appropriate students examine case studies in these topics.

Main Topics Covered:

Preliminary Course

  • Biophysical Interactions – 45% of course time

  • Global Challenges – 45% of course time

  • The Senior Geography Project – 10% of course time

HSC Course

  • Ecosystems at Risk – 33% of course time

  • Urban Places – 33% of course time

  • People and Economic Activity – 33% of course time

Particular Course Requirements:

Students complete a senior geography project (SGP) in the Preliminary course and must undertake 12 hours of fieldwork in both the Preliminary and HSC courses. Fieldwork can involve overnight excursions (eg Snowy Mountains for Fragile Alpine Ecosystems and other studies). Students will be required to submit both oral and written geographic reports.

School Fees: Nil