GEOGRAPHY (A Level)
What is Geography A level?
Geography is the study of the world around us and it examines the complex, dynamic relationships between people and the planet. You will broaden and deepen your understanding of human and physical geography. Geography is considered a desirable A Level subject by university and employers, on account of the transferable skills and relevant knowledge that you gain. Geography field work provides ample opportunities to develop your independent research skills and your ability to process and reflect on different types of data. So, if you are fascinated by the world you live in and are looking to develop the skills that universities and employers are looking for, Geography is the subject for you.
Exam Board: Edexcel
What will I learn?
Dynamic Landscapes - How and why the physical
environment changes: Tectonic Processes and Hazards and Landscape Systems, Processes and Change
Dynamic Places - A closer look at how human geography affects interactions and the built environment: Globalisation and Shaping Places
Physical Systems and Sustainability - The Water Cycle and Water Insecurity & The Carbon Cycle and Energy Security
Human Systems and Geopolitics - Superpowers, the reasons for shifting economic and political power and Global Development and Connections
How will I be assessed?
80% examination
20% independent investigation (coursework)
Entry requirements
Grade 6 in GCSE Geography and one English GCSE, plus a grade 5 in Maths
Where can Geography A level take me?
Careers include:
Ecologist - Take habitat surveys to decide where development happens
Contaminated land consultant - Use your investigation skills to track hazardous chemicals in the environment
Hydrologist - Make decisions and advise the public on where and how to deal with flood events
Sustainability consultant - Work for TNCs like Nike, Inditex, Danon and HSBC making decisions about companies’ future and their impact on people and the planet
Further reading and watching
Prisoners of Geography by Tim Marshall
C Dunn, AS/A-Level Geography Student Guide 1: Tectonic Processes and Hazards; Landscape systems, processes and change (Phillip Allan 2016)
C Dunn, AS/A-Level Geography Student Guide 2: Globalisation; Shaping Places (Phillip Allan 2016)