Geography

WHAT WILL I LEARN?

The Geography course divides itself between more traditional Geography associated with physical processes, places and theories that underpin our subject, and an exploration of the contemporary issues and debates that surround our society in the 21st century.

Physical themes include learning about the landscapes and landforms of the UK and understanding how glacial processes 20,000 years ago have shaped our landscape. We will examine whether we can ever fully mitigate against the challenges posed by tectonic and climactic hazards, and explore what influence climate change is having on people across the globe as well as in the UK. Human themes include how development levels across the world are changing and why, an in depth exploration of the opportunities and challenges of economic development in Nigeria and the UK, as well as a study of urban issues in Bristol contrasted to Lagos. We will study the issues of energy and food production in the UK and Europe, and consider what the world of the future will look like.

Due to the wide range of resources used and skills required, Geography is a highly sought after qualification; success in this subject requires an ability to discuss and analyse issues, use high levels of literacy as well as graphical, numerical and statistical skills. Pupils will learn how to carry out independent enquiries, through planning and writing up the findings from their fieldwork. Regular use of the department laptops will be used to support independent enquiry as well as developing essential GIS skills. Critical thinking is encouraged through the evaluation of different issues, with pupils needing to draw reasoned and substantiated conclusions. WHICH SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE MUST I HAVE BEFORE EMBARKING ON THE COURSE?

Over the past three years, pupils will have learned about a range of Geographical topics, and developed their Geographical skills through their class work, therefore they are prepared for Geography at GCSE. Further, pupils in Year 9 start their GCSE content in January, thus they are already working at a level required for GCSE, and will have some understanding of the rigour this entails. Above all, an interest in the subject and a willingness to work hard are both important criteria for choosing Geography.

ARE THERE OPPORTUNITIES FOR FIELDWORK?

Pupils will undertake two pieces of compulsory fieldwork, a river study in the Quantocks and one urban studies day in Bristol, and analyse the data they collect to carry out two geographical enquiries. The processes involved in these, and the skills acquired, will be tested in one of the examination papers.

There will also be an optional trip to Iceland in October half term which will allow pupils to explore some of the topics covered in a more memorable and exotic location, although it should be noted that places on this trip will be limited.

HOW IS THE WHOLE COURSE STRUCTURED AND ASSESSED?

The course has three parts and each has its own examination at the end of Year 11:

UNIT 1: Living with the Physical Environment (35%)

The challenge of natural hazards Physical landscapes of the UK The living world

UNIT 2: Challenges of the Human Environment (35%)

Urban issues and challenges The changing economic world The challenge of resource management

UNIT 3: Geographical Applications (30%)

This includes an issues evaluation and decision making exercise (with the theme being taken from the two units above) and questions on fieldwork, geographical skills and the two enquiries. WHAT WERE THE GEOGRAPHY GCSE RESULTS LIKE LAST YEAR?

In Geography 76% of students achieved grades 9-7 with 49% achieving grades 9/8.

Overall 100% of students achieved grades 9-4.

FOR WHAT SIXTH FORM SUBJECTS WILL THIS COURSE BE USEFUL?

Geography is an A Level subject in its own right but also has many transferable skills. It is arguably the most versatile subject in the curriculum as it can be combined with both Sciences and Humanities. It offers breadth to those requiring it in their range of A Level qualifications.

Geography helps develop a whole range of skills including numeracy, teamwork through regular field trips, analytical skills and a certain technical savviness through using various specialist computing applications. Also, the subject area in itself cultivates a wider world view and increased cultural sensitivity, thus equipping young people with the skills and outlook to tackle further study and to be successful in a workplace.