Geography

Why study Geography?

Geography is an interesting and diverse, broad- based academic subject. The course covers both Physical and Human environments and the complex interaction of processes that shape our world. Geography combines well with both the Arts and Sciences, and is highly regarded by universities because it opens up a wide range of options for degree study. Employers and universities regard Geography as a robust academic subject rich in skills, knowledge and understanding.

Course content

Pupils study three Physical topics: • Ecosystems • Cold Environments or Coastal Landscapes • Water and Carbon. You will study three Human topics: • Changing Places • Urban Environments • Global systems and Governance.

They take part in two field trips: the first is a residential trip during which they collect data to support the course content. This trip also introduces them to a wide variety of data capture techniques that they use in their independent investigation. The second trip is a day trip to explore a more local destination as a case study for the Changing Places topic.

During the course pupils answer a range of styles of question. Some questions are worth between four and six marks and can be based around the interpretation of a map, graph or photograph. Nine-mark questions require longer responses in which pupils are required to develop ideas by including case study material. Twenty-mark essay questions are more synoptic in nature, with pupils bringing different aspects of the course together, often making links between the Human and Physical content.

Will I enjoy it?

As well as studying a variety of topics and themes, pupils learn about them in relation to a range of locations across the globe. In lessons pupils learn in a variety of ways, including the use of videos, techniques such as GIS, and by referring to a range of secondary source material such as photographs and census data. Pupils have the opportunity to discuss many vital issues that affect the world today, including climate change, migration, poverty, pollution and the use of global resources.

Geography enhances essay-writing skills as well as the ability to carry out extended research and effectively identify and select relevant information.

Michael Palin believes that ‘Geography is the subject that holds the key to our future’. Pupils should consider Geography if they enjoy learning about people and societies, cultures and environments. It is a good choice for developing a wide range of skills and is a broad-based academic discipline that has cache among universities.

What else should I consider?

Geography prepares pupils for a career in sustainability and green issues, urban regeneration and planning, energy supply, retail location, managing the effects of hazards and climate change, law, human rights, international relations, politics and welfare, among many other fascinating professional areas.

It is preferable that pupils have studied Geography at GCSE and that they have a grade 6 or above in English, Mathematics and Science.

Assessment

Examination board: AQA Specification Code: 7037

Pupils take two examinations: Paper 1: Physical Geography (40%) Paper 2: Human Geography (40%)

The third component is an individual fieldwork investigation that is worth 20%.

Who can give me more information? Mrs Morray-Jones

e.morrayjones@sherborne.com