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Geography

Geography is an important and real life subject that studies the way in which human beings interact with their different environments and the subsequent impact. There are complex dimensions that are studied at different levels that give the students an opportunity to learn about the planet earth and humankind’s challenges in creating an equilibrium- using real places, real spaces and real enquiries!

The department is a small but forward looking and dynamic team that consists of two full time teachers and three from the Faculty. The team is supportive and thrives on the varying wealth of experience, commitment and passion for the subject and enjoy instilling their subject knowledge to every student we teach!

Key Stage 3

The curriculum should provide opportunities for students to:

use a range of enquiry approaches.
use varied resources, including maps, visual media and geographical information systems
participate in informed responsible action in relation to geographical issues that affect them and those around them
examine geographical issues in the news
investigate important issues of relevance to the UK and globally, using a range of skills including ICT
undertake fieldwork investigations in different locations outside the classroom, individually and as part of a team
make links between geography and work in other subjects and areas of the curriculum.

Key Stage 4

Geography is an increasingly popular optional subject at this level because of the broader relevance in real life issues. The specification content requires the study features of physical, human, and environmental concepts and processes to provide a balanced overview of geography. These also include Interdependence between places and environments, Global citizenship, Sustainable development, contemporary issues and the significance and effects of the values and attitudes of those involved in decision making. We are following the AQA Spec B, which has a strong emphasis on the '21st century' dynamics affecting our global environment!

Key Stage 5

In addition to what is learnt at KS4, the framework at Key stage 5 introduces students to recent ideas, methods and approaches in Geography.

At AS/A2 Level we are following the Edexcel Specification - a modern and engaging spec which explores the vital ideas and debates in today's world.

Unit 1-Global Challenges

World at Risk;
Going Global (meaning, causes, impacts and management of global challenges) will be taught.

Unit 2: Geographical Investigations: a closer look at how physical and human issues influence lives and can be managed – e.g. Extreme Weather and Rebranding Places

The conceptual and contextual themes, geographical skills and key skills have common applications in both units. It is intended that students develop transferable understanding and skills using compulsory case studies to encourage critical thinking and improve their own learning.

A2 specification comprises

Unit 3 Contested Planet – 60% of marks.

Contested Planet

Energy Security (MU)
Water Conflicts (DA)
Biodiversity Under Threat (DA)
Superpower Geographies (MU)
Bridging the Development Gap (MU)
The Technological Fix? (MU)

Unit 4 Geographical Research – 40% of marks

One topic from a choice of 6. For the current academic year our chosen option is Tectonic Activity and Hazards.