What is Geography?
Geography is concerned with promoting understanding of the character of places, the complex nature of peoples’ relationships and interactions with their environment and the importance of human affairs and activities.
What do we do in GCSE Geography?
For the GCSE we study in more detail some of the themes covered in Years 7, 8, and 9. The examination syllabus we follow is the new ‘Edexcel A’ version. The course is divided into sections which cover the main topics as follows:
Unit 1 : Geographical Skills and Challenges
In this section we look at cartographic, graphical, geographical enquiry, ICT and GIS skills. We also look at the issues that have arisen from climate change and sustainable development.
Unit 2 : The Natural Environment
This Unit has two sections and will involve studying The Physical World and Environmental Issues. The former deals with Tectonic Landscapes such as earthquakes and volcanoes whilst the latter will involve the study of ‘A Wasteful World’
Unit 3 : The Human Environment
In this Unit we will be studying The Human World and People Issues. These topics will look at the study of Population Change and Tourism which are critical contemporary studies that are crucial to our changing world.
Unit 4 : Investigating Geography
For this Unit students need to complete a fieldwork investigation and report. They must complete one of the tasks provided by the exam board on various themes such as: coasts, contemporary, countryside, environmental, rivers, tourism, transport and urban areas.
How do we deliver?
The subject will be taught in a wide variety of ways, depending on the topic being covered at the time. Your teachers will use a wide variety of strategies ranging from whole class teaching to small group work. This will be ideal preparation for further study allowing you to take responsibility for your own learning whilst remaining under the overall direction of your teacher. Fieldwork, outside speakers, video, the internet, GIS and CD-Rom are used where appropriate to supplement class based work.
How are you examined during and at the end of the course?
At the end of each study unit you will be given an end of unit test which will be made up of past examination questions. This will enable you to test your understanding and also enable you to refine your examination technique. In May of Year 10 you will sit one examination which will count for 25% of your GCSE marks. Here you will be tested on Unit 2; The Natural Environment. In January of Year 11 you will then be tested on Unit 3; The Human Environment. There are two levels of examination paper, Foundation and Higher, and we will enter you for the level which we feel will enable you to achieve the best grade you possibly can.
The remaining 50% of your GCSE marks will consist of Unit 1; Geographical Skills and Challenges as well as Unit 4, a local fieldwork investigation. This is a controlled internal assessment that is set by the examination board and is written under direct supervision in school. Students must complete one of the set tasks provided by the exam board on themes such as coasts, contemporary, countryside, environmental, rivers, tourism, transport and urban areas.
What could I do next with GCSE Geography?
A GCSE in Geography is a stepping stone to a whole range of future opportunities. The skills you develop will support you in further studies and employment.
A good grade at GCSE will enable you to move or to study Geography post-16 in either our A Level programme or a part of the IB Diploma programme. If you enjoyed your Geography GCSE, you might want to continue with this subject, or study a related subject. Biology, Geology, Environmental Science, Government & Politics, Economics, Travel & Tourism & Recreation all have close links with some of the material you studied for this GCSE.
Employment opportunities where your geographical skills will be particularly valued include journalism and media, the law, engineering, business management, ICT, environmental management, teaching, economic planning, marketing, leisure, recreation and tourism.