Geography
The syllabus addresses four core components, as follows:
• Physical Systems – the study of Earth’s life support systems (especially carbon and water), and a focus on one chosen landscape (from glaciated, coastal or dryland) • Human Interactions – built around two main topics: ‘Changing Spaces; Making Places’ and ‘Global Connections’. Key topics here include a study of the factors that give places their identity, and how these can change as time passes; international trade; global migration patterns; human rights; and geopolitical debates that surround power and the drawing of international boundaries • Geographical Debates – takes some of the most dynamic issues the planet faces and helps the learner to reflect analytically upon them. Topics on offer here are: climate change; disease dilemmas, exploring oceans, future of food and hazardous Earth. The learner will focus on two of these topics, drawing on current material to enrich fascinating debate • Investigative Geography – a non-examined, project-based element of the A-level, which provides an opportunity for the learner to focus on a favoured aspect of the course, developing an enlivened and deepened appreciation of it Geographical and fieldwork skills will be developed throughout the teaching and learning of all of the four course components. The learner will undertake at least four days of
What is the subject about? It’s an A-level about the world in which we live. Geography is ‘out there’, all around us, from the smallest soil particle and fragment of an ecosystem, to the globalised economy and our shared resources, atmosphere and beyond. The subject helps us to understand the most beautiful of landscapes as well as the context of the toughest of political decisions. It’s a subject that is both historic and current, one that relishes the richness of humanity and the power of nature. It is packed with interesting facts and its study unlocks a whole host of skills, helping the learner to enquire and to evaluate. It results in a fuller, more informed understanding of the relationship between us and our planet. It ultimately improves our ability to debate and to make wise choices. Why might I choose to study geography at A-level? Geography encourages a greater awareness of the world around us and recognition of people’s role within it. The A-level course provides a good basis from which to pursue a range of subjects at university. The learner will also have the opportunity to practise and develop key communication, analysis and ICT skills. It is one of those subjects that employers look favourably on due to its breadth and the variety of skills learnt. In today’s increasingly interconnected world, it is both relevant and a useful preparation for a variety of jobs in business and beyond.
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