GEOGRAPHY GCSE (Syllabus A) AQA
“Geography is the subject which holds the key to our future�
Michael Palin Statistics show that compared to other subjects, Geography graduates are among the most employable. This is probably because they possess the skills that employers look for. In part this is because the subject is a combination of the facts of science and the understanding of the arts. GEOGRAPHERS ARE: Good communicators Spatially aware Socially and environmentally aware Problem solvers Good team players Computer literate Well rounded, flexible thinkers
GEOGRAPHERS CAN: Make a concise report Handle data Ask questions and find the answers Make decisions about an issue Analyse material Solve problems Think independently
What is the course made up of? Unit 1: Physical Geography (37.5%) 1 hr 30 minute examination You will gain an understanding of physical processes and factors that produce the diverse landscapes across our planet. There is an emphasis on the interaction between people and the environment, and an awareness of the need for sustainable management of environments. Section A: The Restless Earth, Rocks, Resources and Scenery, Challenge of Weather and Climate, The Living World Section B: Water Management, Ice on the land, The Coastal Zone Unit 2: Human Geography (37.5%) 1 hr 30 minute examination This unit focuses on the causes of, and processes involved in changes to human environments, both rural and urban. It covers some of the rapid economic developments affecting people across the globe, as well as issues related to population change, migration and tourism. Section A: Population Change, Changing Urban Environments, Changing Rural Environments. Section B: The Development Gap, Globalisation, Tourism Both exams are taken at the end of Year 11. For each exam students must answer one question from each section, plus one other question of their choice. Unit 3: Local Fieldwork Investigation (25%) The coursework component is made up a single planned enquiry. It is a small scale, fieldwork based investigation. The investigation write up takes place under direct supervision in class and is completed in the Autumn Term of Year 11.
Career information related to Geography In developing knowledge of land use and the environment, it is a particular requirement in land management and surveying, geology, ecology, town and country planning, meteorology, landscape architecture, cartography and Leisure and Tourism. It is also useful for careers in the media, public services and business. 26