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Structure + Marked criteria
Structure + Marked criteria
The general structure of the investigation
1. Introduction: Define your research question or hypothesis and explain its relevance.
2. Methodology: Outline how you will collect and record data, including sampling methods, equipment, and fieldwork techniques.
3. Data Presentation: Use a variety of visual methods, such as graphs, maps, and GIS outputs.
4. Analysis: Identify patterns, trends, and relationships in your data.
5. Conclusion: Summarise your findings and address your research question.
6. Evaluation: Reflect on the limitations of your methods and suggest improvements.
Assessment Criteria
1. Purpose and Planning (12 marks): How well you define the investigation's purpose and select appropriate methods.
2. Data Collection and Recording (15 marks): The quality of data collected and recording accuracy.
3. Data Presentation and Analysis (20 marks): Effectiveness in presenting data and identifying patterns.
4. Conclusion and Evaluation (13 marks): Validity of conclusions and critical evaluation of the research process.
Top Tips!
Choose a manageable topic with accessible fieldwork locations.
Ensure your methods are varied and appropriate for the investigation.
Use a range of presentation techniques, including GIS if possible.
Be critical and reflective in your evaluation.
Stick to the word count and maintain a clear, logical structure.
Overview and Key Information
Overview and Key Information
Component 3: Geographical Investigation (20% of A-level)
An independent investigation of 3,000–4,000 words.
Students collect data during fieldwork and analyze it using geographical theories and methods.
Topic is student-selected but must relate to the syllabus content.
The Geographical Investigation (also known as the Non-Exam Assessment, or NEA) is a student-led, independent research project where you explore a geographical issue or question in depth. It allows you to apply the skills and knowledge you've gained from the course and develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and research skills.
Guidelines
- Length: The report must be between 3,000 to 4,000 words
- Fieldwork: You must conduct primary data collection as part of your investigation. This typically involves at least four days of fieldwork.
- Focus: The investigation can be related to physical, human, or combined geography themes** from the AQA specification.
- Supervision: Teachers provide guidance on planning and research techniques but cannot direct the investigation.
Choosing a Topic
Your topic must:
1. Be connected to the AQA syllabus (physical or human geography).
2. Allow for meaningful data collection and analysis.
3. Address a clearly stated geographical question or hypothesis.
Example topics:
- Physical Geography:
- The relationship between beach profiles and coastal protection strategies.
- Changes in river characteristics along its course.
- Human Geography:
- The impact of tourism on local businesses in a rural community.
- Patterns of deprivation in urban environments.
- Combined Themes:
- How human interventions affect coastal systems.
- Links between urban heat islands and urban design.
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