Why study Geography?

The AQA GCSE Geography Syllabus A will enable learners to:

• Develop as effective and independent learners and as critical and reflective thinkers with enquiring minds.
• Develop their knowledge and understanding of geographical concepts and appreciate the relevance of these concepts to our changing world.
• Appreciate the importance of the location of places and environments from local to global.
• Understand the significance of different values and attitudes.
• Develop their responsibility as global citizens and recognise how they can contribute to a future that is sustainable.

What will I learn?

This qualification is split into three themes, assessed in three different exams:

• Living with the physical environment (35%)
• Living with the human environment (35%)
• Geographical skills and fieldwork (30%)

As part of ‘Living with the physical environment’ pupils will study the challenge of natural hazards (including plate tectonics and weather events), the living world (including ecosystems, deserts and rainforests) and physical landscapes in the UK (including rivers and coasts).

Within ‘Living with the human environment’ pupils will study urban issues and challenges, the changing economic world and challenges of resources.

How will I be assessed?

This is a GCSE qualification and is graded from 9 to 1. This qualification is 100% examination sat at the end of Year 11. There are three exams in total. The third paper on geographical skills will comprise two main parts:

• A pre-released resource booklet available 12 weeks before the exam will allow pupils to explore a geographical issue and the exam will ask pupils to provide a reasonable justification for proposed solutions.
• Two fieldwork activities will be undertaken during the course of the GCSE study which will allow pupils to explore both the physical and human environment and explore the interrelationships between them. They will use data collected to formulate a geographical enquiry, select and create appropriate presentation techniques and analyse their findings.

What can I do after I’ve completed the course?

A GCSE in Geography is a pre-requisite for a number of Post 16 qualifications in including AS/A2 Level in Geography, Geology, Environmental Science and Economics.

This GCSE also develops a range of skills that will benefit students in a range of related and non-related academic and vocational qualifications at Post-16.

For more information please contact Mr Sissons at the Academy on 01384 253722