header image
Print Page Recommended print settings

AS/A2 Geography

The course is designed to enable you to: 

Develop and apply your understanding of geographical concepts and processes to understand and interpret our changing world

Develop an awareness of the complexity of interactions within and between societies, economies, cultures and environments at scales from local to global

Develop as global citizens who recognise the challenges of sustainability and the implications for your own and others’ lives

Improve as critical and reflective learners aware of the importance of attitudes and values, including your own

Become adept in the use and application of skills and new technologies through geographical studies both in and outside the classroom

Be inspired by the world around you, and gain enjoyment and satisfaction from their geographical studies and understand their relevance.

 
Is it for me? 
 

The course suits those who have an interest in the environment, who enjoy finding out their own answers and who are interested in global issues and current affairs. Assessment is exam based.

 

What's involved?

Physical and Human Geography 

You will study the core geographical concepts along with contrasting themes of contemporary or environmental impact, management and sustainability. You will study two core units, Rivers, floods and management and Population change. A further optional Physical and Human unit will be studied from the following: Cold environments; Coastal environments; Hot desert environments and their margins; Food supply issues, Energy issues and Health issues

Assessment: 2 hour written examination worth 70% of AS, 35% of A Level
 

Applied Geography 

Develop the use and application of a variety of geographical skills. These should broaden and deepen existing knowledge of skills. These skills will be taught as an integral part of Unit 1. A range of skills will be examined from at least three of the six categories; Basic, investigative, ICT, graphical, cartographical and statistical skills. Investigative skills and the assessment of fieldwork will be tested.

Assessment: 1 hour written examination worth 30% of AS, 15% of A Level
 

Contemporary Geographical issues 

You will study a range of contemporary geographical issues based on the following themes: Plate tectonics and associated hazards; Weather and climate and associated hazards; Challenges facing ecosystems; World cities – evolution or revolution? ; Development and globalisation; Contemporary conflicts and challenges.

Assessment: 2 hour written examination worth 30% of A Level

Geography Fieldwork Investigation
 
Within this unit you will complete either a geographical fieldwork investigation examination paper or a geographical issue evaluation examination based upon an Advance Information booklet released before the examination.
 
Assessment: 1 hour 30minutes worth 20% of A Level.
 
Progression
 
Statistics show that Geography graduates are among the most employable. Geography provides the opportunity to continue to study a range of University courses related to the environment, outdoor education and sciences. Geography helps you to develop a better understanding of the environment in which you live and develop a range of transferable skills. The world in which we live is likely to change more in the next 50 years than it has ever done before. Geography explains why this is and helps to prepare you for those changes.