Why choose this subject?
Geography is one of the most diverse subjects available for A Level due to the wide ranging topic areas studied within human, physical and environmental geographies. Geography is the ideal course for those who enjoy learning about people and their societies, economies, cultures and the environment. It helps develop a wide range of skills which can be used to support other subject areas.
It is also a great choice for those seeking a broad based academic A Level subject which can act as a top ‘facilitating subject’ to support university applications or increase employment prospects. The two year A Level course also states that students must undertake a minimum of four days of fieldwork and there are also opportunities for other fieldwork, including a trip to Iceland.
How will this subject be delivered?
Geography is delivered through a wide variety of teaching methods and activities, which ties in with its broad nature. Elements of the course will involve developing a wide range of skills such as data, graphical, and analytical skills. These will be developed through classwork and fieldwork. The course is split into two broad topics – Human Geography and Physical Geography – however there will be extensive links between the two.
How is it assessed?
The Geography A Level is assessed through four individual sections. There will be two traditional exams with each being worth 30% of the course. There is also a synoptic paper worth 20% of the course. This paper will test the student’s ability to examine and evaluate the links between different topics within Geography.
The final assessed piece is an independent investigation based on fieldwork and research which is worth 20%.
Subject specific entry requirements
Grade 6 or above in GCSE Geography.
Progression
A Level Geography can lead to a wide range of careers or higher education choices. It is a popular degree course nationally and has a high level of employability in areas such as environmental management, economics and business, local government careers, river and coastal management, travel and tourism and education. It is also highly valued by universities as a facilitating subject which will support other subjects in university applications.
Additional costs relating to this course
Students may wish to purchase their own books and there may be additional costs relating to trips for this course.
