Geography

Geography is the study of the World in which we live.

At BSAK we study the EDEXCEL Geography A Level. Our aim is to produce critical thinkers, who understand and value the world in which we live. Employers and universities see geography as a robust academic subject rich in skills, knowledge and understanding. As a subject linking the arts and the sciences it is highly flexible in terms of what you can combine it with at A Level. Studying geography means you will gain a wide variety of knowledge that encompasses different subject areas. Although taught through human and physical geography, you will delve into history, economics, cultural, social and science subjects. You will gain a varied knowledge that will allow you to keep your options open in regards to any further studies you want to pursue or the career you want to follow.

COURSE CONTENT

The course is split into physical and human geography of equal weighting. There is also a synoptic element which helps students make links between topics. The breakdown of the topics are as follows:

Topic 5: The Water Cycle and Water Insecurity

Water cycle, human and natural factors that impact on water cycling, consequences for water security and future water conflicts.

Topic 6: The Carbon Cycle and Energy Security

Carbon cycle, human and natural factors impacting on carbon cycling, the consequences for ecosystems and management strategies. Physical Systems and Sustainability.

Topic 7: Superpowers

The reasons for shifting economic and political power, the Impacts of superpowers, influence of superpowers in governing the global commons.

Topic 8: Global Development and Connections

Migration, Identity and Sovereignty- globalisation and how it has led to increased migration and its impacts, how nations states are defined and how they have evolved in a globalizing world, impact of global organisations on managing global issues and conflicts and threats to national sovereignty in a globalized world.

SKILLS DEVELOPED

● Research skills, such as using a range of technical methods for the collection and analysis of spatial and environmental data, and undertaking fieldwork ● Transferable skills, such as teamwork, problem solving, IT skills, communication skills (presentation, writing, debating) ● Intellectual skills, such as critically evaluating theories and judging evidence in order to make informed decisions and to develop reasoned arguments

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Students are required to attend 4 days of fieldwork and data collection throughout the course and will carry out independent investigation and data collection for their NEA (coursework) section.

SPECIFICATION LINK

ASSESSMENTS

Students will be assessed throughout using knowledge checkers, timed essay questions, end of EQ topic tests The course is linear, with all three examinations at the end of Year 13. Paper 1- Physical Geography elements -30% of the A Level; Paper 2- Human Geography elements - 30% of the A Level. Paper 3- Synoptic exam based on a geographical issue- 20% of the A Level. Paper 4- NEA (non examined assessment) a coursework element based on a fieldwork investigation- 20% of the A Level.