A-Level Geography
SUBJECT LEADER
Mrs H Muir
EXAM BOARD
Edexcel
SPECIFICATION LINK
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Grade 5 in GCSE Geography.
Why choose A-Level Geography?
Geography is visible in everything we do, constantly changing and adapting to differing scenarios. In an ever growing world, the study of Geography is not only highly relevant, but essential if we are going to learn to live with changes over time. By studying Geography, students are exposed to a world of challenges, opportunities and consequences to which they have the potential to make a big impact on now and in the future. Not only is Geography a fascinating, eye opening and relevant subject, it provides students with a wealth of transferable skills that are in high demand to potential higher education establishments and employers alike. Regardless of if you intend to follow a geographical career path or something else, Geography opens doors and gives you essential skills for future progression.
What you will study in A-Level Geography?
Area of study 1: Dynamic Landscapes
Topic 1 – Tectonic Processes and Hazards
Topic 2 – Landscape systems, process and change (coastal landscapes and change)
Area of study 2: Dynamic Places
Topic 3 – Globalisation
Topic 4 – Shaping places (regenerating places)
Area of study 3: Physical Systems and Sustainability
Topic 5 – The water cycle and water insecurity
Topic 6 – The carbon cycle and energy security
Area of study 4: Human Systems and Geopolitics
Topic 7 – Superpowers
Topic 8 – Global development and connectivity (migration, identity and sovereignty)
Fieldwork:
Student will be required to complete 4 days of compulsory fieldwork during the 2 year course. The fieldwork will be closely linked to both their human and physical geography studies. The skills learnt here will enable students to develop their own independent investigations, which provides the coursework element of the A Level and 20% of students overall grade.
Independent investigation
Following successful completion of fieldwork, students will be required to complete an independent investigation using the skills learnt. The question/issue to be investigated will be identified by the student and will be linked to one of the topics previously studied. Students must independently collect fieldwork data and secondary research to enable them to answer their pre-identified question.
How you will be assessed in A-Level Geography?
The A level course is composed of 4 distinct areas of study (human and physical geography, as well as a synoptic section based on geographical issues and a coursework element (the independent investigation)) into which fieldwork and geographical skills will be incorporated.
Paper 1 (physical) 30% – Exam comprising of questions on topics 1, 2, 5 and 6.
Paper 2 (human) 30% – Exam comprising of questions on topics 3, 4, 7 and 8.
Paper 3 (synoptic paper) 20% – Exam comprising of an assessment on a pre-seen booklet of information linking to all parts of the course.
Independent Investigation 20% – Coursework
Additional Information
For more information please see Mrs Muir