Geography

geography Geography - AS/A2

Exam Board: Pearson Edexcel

What will a warmer planet mean for vulnerable communities and ecosystems?

How can poverty be tackled when populations continue to rise?

What can cities do to remain vibrant and prosperous?

How can safe and reliable supplies of energy be maintained in an uncertain world?

What can be done to manage the growing risks from natural hazards?

Is Geography for you?

You are someone who likes asking questions and finding the answers.

• You must have 5 GCSEs at grade C or above and you should have achieved at least a grade C in GCSE English Language and also in Geography if you took the subject at GCSE.

You are interested in environmental issues and current affairs.

You take an interest in the world around you and why it looks the way it does.

You want to balance your A-Level choices by studying a subject which contains elements of the Sciences and the Humanities.

You should be prepared to see both sides of an issue and understand different people’s points of view.

You may wish to consider studying AS/A2 Statistics which will help you understand and analyse data – a valuable skill for Geography students.

What will I learn?

AS Year Global Challenges This broad unit studies many of the major physical and human geographical issues facing the world today. You will examine the risks from natural hazards and climate change as well as assessing the impact of today’s rapid economic changes in different parts of the world. You will also study the related issues of population change, migration and urbanisation using both UK and international examples.

Geographical Investigations This skills-based unit involves active fieldwork and develops your research skills.

You will study the causes of extreme weather around the world and investigate the varying impacts, risks and management of these events. You will also explore the different ways in which places re-invent themselves to provide a more prosperous future and examine the success of some local examples.

A2 Year Contested Planet This unit considers the management of limited resources and how this impacts upon people in different parts of the world. You will explore related topics including energy security, water conflicts, managing biodiversity and ecosystems, the geography of superpowers, issues facing the developing world and how technology can help resolve these challenges.

Geographical Research You will carry out your own research into the topic of ‘Tectonic Activity and Hazards’ which will include detailed studies of recent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, and how the risks from these deadly events can be better managed in the future.

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You will benefit from a well-resourced department and specialist staff with extensive A- Level experience.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment during both AS and A2 years is by written examination.

What activities can I get involved in?

Several day and half-day field trips are undertaken in the AS year to bring to life the topics learnt about in the classroom, including visits to Liverpool and North Wales. There is also the opportunity to take part in a biannual visit to Iceland.

The College has lots of exciting enrichment and C.V building opportunities including the chance to earn the Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award, learn a new skill, learn a language, join a club, take up or develop a sport or take on a new challenge. See the College Prospectus for further information about what is on offer.

Where does it lead?

Geographers are recognised by both Universities and employers as people who understand how the world works, can solve problems and think for themselves. It is one of a select number of ‘facilitating subjects’- those identified by the Russell Group of leading Universities as equipping students with the skills for success in Higher Education.

Career options are varied and can include urban planning and design, travel and tourism, conservation work, environmental management and surveying amongst others. You may consider studying Geography at University, but an A Level in Geography also prepares you well for many other related subjects.

tel: 0151 652 5575 email: enrol@bsfc.ac.uk

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