Geography A Level

The new A level is a linear course spanning 2 years that looks at a range of contemporary topics and issues that are assessed in 2 exam papers, Physical Geography and Human Geography. There is also an independent piece of course work to complete (4000 words on a geographical question of students choosing) which is teacher assessed and sampled by the exam board.

In addition to written exams, students are required to undertake a geographical investigation that requires fieldwork and the collection of data in order to answer a key question or hypothesis defined by the candidate in relation to the course specification. This will normally be undertaken at a Field Studies Council centre, where they have years of expertise and the necessary resources to maximise our student’s learning. This is a residential experience to define the question and undertake the primary data collection.

The areas of study for Physical geography include the water and carbon cycles as natural systems, associated issues and threats such as flooding and deforestation, and the impact on the processes of climate change; Coastal systems, processes, landforms and the issue of coastal zone management; and the nature, impact and management of various natural hazards (volcanic, seismic, atmospheric cyclones).

The areas of study for Human Geography are global systems and governance (globalisation); Changing Places with a focus on distinguishing between clearly contrasting local and distant places (endogenous and exogenous factors); and population and the environment. This section explores the relationships between key aspects of physical geography and population numbers, population health and well-being, levels of economic development and the role and impact of the natural environment.

2 x 2.5 hour papers each worth 40% of the final grade and a coursework report making the remaining 20%

eography is a useful A level when applying for a wide range of university courses as it acts as a natural bridge between humanities and sciences. At university students of Geography may continue with a closely related degree (Geography, Environmental Geography, Geology, Urban Management and Planning, Meteorology etc.) or other associated degrees (leisure and tourism, business etc.). A Geography degree can lead to a variety of occupations in industry, business, and law firms and in applied disciplines such as Urban Planning, Meteorology, and Environmental Protection. There are other pathways other than university using a geography A level, for example archaeologist, countryside ranger, diplomatic service officer, ecologist, cartographer, land surveyor, tourist guide; the list is immense.