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Geography
Title & Level: A/AS Level Geography (Level 3)Introduction
Geography is about the world around us – the natural and human environment. It covers many different aspects of both the sciences and humanities. This course aims to establish links between the physical and human world, as well as looking at the impacts on the environment.
Entry requirements
Grade A* to B in English Language, Maths and Double or Triple Science. Geography GCSE is not essential.
Duration
AS Level is one year and A Level is two years. Enrolment is in September only.
Career Prospects/Progression
Geography provides an excellent entry route to university-level courses, including geographical based courses or as a foundation subject in either Arts or Sciences. Geography can lead to careers such as planning and surveying, working for environmental and conservation groups, resource management and engineering. Geographers are also adaptable and their ability to think creatively makes them ideal for managerial posts in local government, the civil service, health and education.
How will I be assessed?
The AS course is assessed by two exams: Paper 1 covers Physical and Human Geography in a structured 1½ hour exam, while the 1 hour Paper 2 focuses on skills and the candidate’s own fieldwork.
The A2 course is also assessed by two exams: Paper 3 – 2½hrs (60%) with two structured questions and one essay and Paper 4A or 4B – 1½hrs (40%) structured short and extended questions based on your fieldwork investigation or fieldwork skills.
There is no coursework, although you will need to complete a number of fieldwork tasks.
Course Content/units
AS Level - Unit 1 - Physical and Human Geography
The study of core geographical concepts along with contrasting themes of contemporary or environmental impact, management and sustainability. You must study the core unit and then select one of the physical options and one of the human options.
Core physical section: Rivers, floods and management
Optional physical topics:
• Cold environments
• Coastal environments
• Hot desert environments and their margins
Core human section: Population change
Optional human topics:
• Food supply issues
• Energy issues
• Health issues
AS Level - Unit 2 - Geographical Skills
A geographical skills paper based on the content of Unit 1. Skills include: investigative, cartographic, graphical, ICT and statistical skills.
A2 Level - Unit 3 - Contemporary Geographical Issues
An issues-based approach to contemporary geographical themes. Candidates must select three topics: at least one from the physical options and at least one from the human options.
Optional Physical topics:
• Plate tectonics and associated hazards
• Weather and climate and associated hazards
• Ecosystems: change and challenge
Optional Human topics:
• World cities
• Development and globalisation
• Contemporary conflicts and challenges
A2 Level - Unit 4A - Geography Fieldwork Investigation
You analyse and evaluate your own fieldwork in response to the questions set. In addition, you will be assessed on fieldwork and data manipulation skills.
or
A2 Level - Unit 4B - Geographical Issue Evaluation
This unit gives you the opportunity to use your skills of analysis, synthesis and evaluation. An advance information booklet is pre-released two months prior to the exam.
Course expenses
There are several field trips throughout this course. Local trips are compulsory and students will need to cover travel costs. There are optional overseas residentials.
Trips/Residentials
Local field trips are compulsory. Residential and overseas trips are optional, but strongly recommended. Previous destinations include Brittany, Naples, Berlin, Iceland and Mumbai.
Awarding Body
AQA
What next?
For further information, advice and to enrol, please call our Customer Liaison Team on 01935 423921
