IBDP Geography

IB Geography offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the complexities of our world, focusing on the interconnectedness of physical and human systems. This subject invites you to analyse critical global challenges such as climate change, geopolitical tensions, population dynamics, resource management and economic development, equipping you with the skills to understand and address pressing issues.

In this course, you will develop a deeper appreciation of the world around you, using real-world meaningful examples. A significant aspect of IB Geography Assessment is a fieldwork project, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings, collect your own data, and drawing meaningful conclusions.

Choosing IB Geography means choosing a subject that is highly relevant, academically rigorous, and versatile. It prepares you for almost any career but some of the more direct fields include environmental science, international relations, urban planning, and sustainable development. Moreover, it fosters critical thinking, research, and analytical skills, making it an invaluable foundation for further study.

Grade 11

Oceans and their coastal margins

Focusing on marine geography, this unit examines the physical and human interactions occurring along coastal zones and within the world's oceans. Key themes include the processes that shape coastal landforms, the management of coastal hazards like erosion and sea-level rise, and the role of oceans in regulating global climate. The topic also explores the challenges posed by marine pollution, overfishing, abiotic extraction and geopolitical contestation of ocean areas. 

Geophysical hazards

Geophysical hazards focus on natural events, such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis, that arise from processes occurring within or on the Earth’s crust. This topic covers the causes and impacts of these hazards, the vulnerability of different populations, and strategies for risk management and disaster response. Students analyze case studies to understand the varying degrees of hazard risk and explore how technological advancements and planning can mitigate impacts.

Food and Health

This topic explores the complex relationships between food security, nutrition, and public health at global, regional, and local levels. Key areas include patterns of food production and consumption, the challenges of malnutrition and obesity, and the impact of diseases on human populations. It also examines strategies for improving food availability and health outcomes, addressing issues like sustainable agriculture and the role of international organizations in managing health crises.

Population change

This unit explores the dynamics of population growth, decline, and distribution across the globe. Key themes include demographic processes such as fertility, mortality, and migration, and the factors that influence population structures and trends. The topic also examines population policies, the concept of demographic dividends, and challenges such as aging populations and youthful populations. Case studies are used to highlight different strategies for managing population change and to analyze the social, economic, and environmental implications of shifting population patterns.

Internal Assessment 

Students will collect data in the field and create a written report to present and analyse their findings.

Grade 12

Global resource consumption

This unit explores the complex relationships between humans and natural resources. Students examine patterns of resource consumption, the environmental impacts of resource extraction, and the social and economic implications of resource distribution. The unit also covers issues related to resource security, including conflicts over access to resources, the circular economy and sustainable resource stewardship.

Global Climate Change

This unit focuses on understanding the Earth's climate system and its impacts on human activities. Students delve into topics like climate change, its causes, and its effects on various regions and societies. They also investigate strategies for climate change adaptation and mitigation, examining both global policies and local initiatives aimed at building resilience in vulnerable communities.

HL Extension: Places, power and networks, Development and diversity, Global risks and resilience

These three units focus on the interconnectedness of the world, exploring the processes, patterns and consequences of globalization. Students examine topics like transnational corporations, international trade, cultural globalization, and the flows of information and technology. They also analyze the impacts of globalization on societies, economies, and environments, as well as the challenges and opportunities it presents for different regions. 

Fieldwork skills Digital Mapping Self reflection

Developing essays Media literacy Problem solving

Decision making Data analysis Analysing perspectives

Appreciation of nuance and an understanding that we live in a complex world

Fieldwork is an integral part of the IBDP course

SL external assessment

• Paper 1 (1 hour 30 minutes) – 35% syllabus content: option Geographic themes; each option has a structured question and one extended answer question from a choice of two (40 marks)

• Paper 2 (1 hour 30 minutes) – 40% syllabus content: Geographic perspectives – global change

  • Section A: three structured questions, based on each core unit (30 marks)

  • SectionB: infographic or visual stimulus with structured questions 

  • Section C: One extended answer from a choice of two (20 marks)

Internal assessment - 25% a project based on data collection in the field

HL external assessment (4 hours 45 minutes) – 80%

• Paper 1 (2 hours 15 minutes) – 35% syllabus content: option Geographic themes; each option has a structured question and one extended answer question from a choice of three (60 marks)

• Paper 2 (2 hours) – 25% syllabus content: Geographic perspectives – global change -  sectionA: three structured questions, based on each core unit (30 marks) -  sectionB: infographic or visual stimulus with structured questions and one extended answer from a choice of     two (20 marks)

• Paper 3 (1 hour) – 20% syllabus content: HL extension- choice of three extended answer questions with two parts (28marks)

• HL internal assessment  – 20% a project based on data collection in the field.

Who should study geography?

Anyone can study geography regardless of prior experience - you do not need to have studied the subject at IGCSE to take it now. We are an incredibly welcoming and inclusive department who value diversity of thinking so the more the merrier. This subject is particularly for you if you want to learn about the planet you inhabit and if you are interested in understanding how physical processes shape our beautiful landscapes and how humans interact with these in positive and challenging ways. The course is an interesting middle ground between science and the humanities.

Where can geography take me in the future?

Employers and universities love geographers because they are adept at understanding complex spatial relationships, which is crucial in fields like urban planning, logistics, and data analysis. Their ability to analyze and interpret data, combined with a holistic understanding of the environment, makes them valuable assets in various industries and this is particularly important in an era where businesses and organisations operate on a global scale. Overall, the skills and insights that geographers bring to the table make them highly sought-after candidates in both the job market and higher education institutions.

Where can I get more information about the geography course?

What skills will I develop and how?

Through hands-on explorations, written essays field trips, lively discussions, digital mapping and problem solving activities you will cultivate critical thinking, hone spatial awareness, and foster a global perspective essential in today's interconnected world. 

Where can I find out more information

Please feel free to come along and visit Mrs Jodie Chambers (Head of Department) in D342 or Mr Gavin Dinsdale in D339. Our doors are always open and we welcome anyone who wants to come and take a look around and hear more. We are happy to connect you with some of our Grade 11 or 12 students to chat to you also.