Exam Board: AQA
The course is a natural progression for those that have studied geography at Key Stage 4 or have an interest in the wider world. Students will study a range of geographical topics, both physical and human, in greater depth. The course is supplemented by fieldwork in the local area and further afield. Students have the opportunity to develop their own fieldwork investigation.
Component 1
Physical Geography: 1) Water and carbon cycles 2) Coastal systems 3) Hazards
Component 2
Human Geography 1) Global systems 2) Changing places 3) Population and environment
Component 3
Independent Study based upon student interest and any area of the specification.
80% exam, 20% coursework
General Sixth Form admission requirements. It is helpful to have studied GCSE Geography, if you have then a Grade 5 or above is required.
Geography is a broad-based subject which provides lots of opportunities for future progression. For example, geography is an obvious choice for careers in sustainability and green issues, urban regeneration, energy supply, retail location, managing the effects of hazards and climate change. For careers in the world of business, an understanding of global economics forms an important part of geography. If you are thinking of a career in law, human rights, international relations or welfare, then geography gives you the opportunity to consider relevant issues such as; How do we measure development? What are the consequences of migration on societies? If you are working towards a future course in medicine or veterinary medicine then geography is a good choice to give your A-Level options the breadth that universities seek, as you will gain a clear understanding of how the environment affects health and survival of people, animals and ecosystems as well as enhancing your skills of writing essays and extended reports.