Geography A Level

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Exam board: Edexcel 

What is the course about?

Geography is about the interaction between people and their environments, understanding the way that natural systems work, and gaining insight into the impacts of human activity. With this approach, geographers learn to look at the world in a holistic way. You will be taught a wide-ranging combination of skills drawing in ideas from many sources. This ability to view issues from a wider perspective allows you to understand the nature of how people’s lives are changing, and help you forecast the future for populations and for the planet. The Geography taught at LSC is contemporary Geography, so we only use recent examples and case studies, building on what you will have read or seen in the media from a geographical perspective.

 

Duration of course

Two years at A Level.

 

What units/topics will be studied?

During the first and second year of this course you will study both Human and Physical Geography topics
covering:
· Tectonic Processes and Hazards
· Coastal Landscapes and Change
· The Water Cycle and Water Insecurity
· The Carbon Cycle and Energy Security
· Regenerating Places
· Superpowers
· Health, Human Rights and Intervention


In the second year you will conduct an independent investigation (coursework) which is 20% of the Geography A Level. The topic of your investigation may relate to any aspect of geography contained within the specification.

 

What do I need to study this subject?

Essential: GCSE Point score of 34, which must include a point score of 5 in GCSE English Language and in GCSE Maths. Desirable: A grade C in GCSE Geography.

 

What can I do to prepare myself to study this subject?

Keeping up to date with recent events is very important, so read the Environment and Politics sections of broadsheet newspapers such as the Guardian or the Independent. A useful starting point is the book: ‘Geography: An Integrated Approach’ by David Waugh.

 

What are the enrichment opportunities as part of this subject?

At least four days of field-trips take place throughout the two years as part of the course requirement, for the second year you will be required to
attend a residential field-trip. There are also opportunities to attend geographical conferences, talks run by the Royal Geographical Society and listen to visiting speakers.