Geography
Why Should I Study This Subject?
Geography is a subject that helps you develop a wealth of skills and a diverse field of knowledge. It is a highly valued A Level and is recognised for this by both universities and employers. Skills developed are ones that can be transferred to many different areas and the knowledge you acquire will give a more detailed understanding of the world we live in.
What Will I Study?
The specification allows each student the flexibility to build programmes that suit their own particular interests and needs using a range of approaches. Fieldwork and research skills are key features at both AS and A2 Levels. The topics covered, address areas and debates that the world faces today, such as the Global Economy, Tectonic Activity and Hazards. The course is split into 4 units, each worth 25% of the overall mark. Units 2 & 4 are coursework based and focus on fieldwork and independent research. These will help you develop skills in analysis and evaluation.
Exam Board
Edexcel, further details can be found on the following website:
www.edexcel.com
What Can I do Next?
The AS course is divided into 2 units, Unit 1 Global Challenges – which addresses issues facing the whole world from volcanoes and climate change to globalisation and mega cities. Unit 2 covers topics on the coast, weather towns and the countryside. You have to choose two from the four and undertake a fieldwork investigation of each.
The A2 course covers 2 units, Unit 3 is entitled The Contested Planet - this covers energy security, water conflicts, biodiversity, superpower geopolitics, development of countries and the advance of technology. Unit 4 is coursework, there is a choice of three areas to research, Tectonic Activity and Hazards, Cold Environments - landscapes and change or Life on the margins and food supply.
What Grades Will I Need?
8 GCSE grades A*- C. Students are required to have at least a B grade at GCSE to study Geography at A level.