Structure
There are three examinations at the end of the course and a non-examined assessment (coursework) that is produced in Yr 13. Paper 1 is the physical paper, Paper 2 is the human paper and Paper 3 is a synoptic paper, covering elements across some of the modules.
Yr 12 modules:
Tectonic Processes and Hazards – volcanoes, earthquakes, tsunamis – the causes, effects and management of these hazards.
Coastal landscapes – the factors that shape coastlines, how they change over time and how humans manage these varied environments.
Globalisation – the role of world organisations, governments and multinational companies in shaping the world – environmental issues, trade, migration.
Diverse places – how and why places change over time, the benefits and problems change may bring and the role of different interest groups in the decision making process.
Yr 13 modules:
The Water Cycle and Water Insecurity – rivers, water supply and demand, drought, flooding, water scarcity and the challenges these bring.
The Carbon Cycle and Energy Security – an evaluation of fossil fuels and alternative energy sources, the changing energy demands in different locations and issues relating to ensuring a reliable energy supply.
Superpowers – the influence of different countries globally – political, cultural, economic, environmental and their role in decision making.
Health, human rights and intervention – the factors affecting access to health care and the implications for communities, the role of government in health care, people’s human rights and how these vary within and between countries, interventions from international organisations.
You are required to undertake a minimum of four days fieldwork and in both Years 12 and 13 there are residential fieldtrips to allow you to develop your skills, investigate new places and work with others. Previous trips have been to Suffolk, Lincolnshire and the Lake District and for many geographers were a highlight of their course. You will use skills from these fieldtrips to produce an independent project called the non-examined assessment, which is worth 20% of your grade.
Course Requirements
Grade 5 in Geography, ideally a 6 or higher.
