Geography

The aims of the subject at GCSE are to enable students to develop:

• an awareness of the processes affecting contrasting physical and human environments

• an understanding of the ways in which people interact with each other and with their environment

• an awareness of the contrasting opportunities and constraints presented by different environments

• an appreciation of and concern for the environment

• an appreciation of the earth including its people, places, landscapes, natural processes and phenomena

• an ability to interpret data in a variety of forms, evaluate arguments, solve problems, make decisions

Students will learn how to:

• interpret and analyse geographical data presented in a variety of formats

• interpret and analyse topographical maps

• use geographical data to recognise patterns in geographical data and to deduce relationships

• select and show understanding of techniques for observing and collecting data

• select and use techniques for organising and presenting data

Paper 1

• 45% of total marks

• 1 hour 45 minute duration

• Tests knowledge / understanding / ability to analyse / make judgements

• Structured data-response questions on the 3 main themes

• Term 3 of Year 11

• Past Paper 1 exemplar

Paper 2

• 27.5% of total marks

• 1 hour 30 minute duration

• Skills-based paper

• Tests ability to interpret and analyse topographical maps & other geographical presentation techniques

• Term 3 of Year 11

• Past Paper 2 exemplar

Coursework

• 27.5% of total marks

• One fieldwork assignment

• Data collection by students as a collective

• Individual written fieldwork report of approximately 2500 words

• Term 1 of Year 11

Employers rarely need specialists: they need bright, committed, inquisitive and determined individuals with the ability to think on their feet and make sense of a complex and changing world.

Employment opportunities where your geographical skills will be particularly valued include:

• Journalism and the Media

• Development or Aid agencies

• Environmental Management

• Business Administration

• Engineering

• Marketing and Finance

• Tourism and Recreation

• Disaster management

• Armed forces

• Law