A Level Geography
Study Geography at the Sixth
Introduction by Head of Humanities Faculty:
Hear from the Students:
Exam Board: OCR
Expected Entry Criteria: Grade 6 or above in GCSE Geography
Why study this course?
As a Geographer you will develop many skills which are valued by employers, as well as developing a critical way of thinking about the world. Employers are looking for quality people to invest in, and Geography is a subject which explores the importance of the future. Uniquely, Geography bridges the gap between arts and science subjects and combines well with all other subjects.
What will I learn?
The A Level Geography specification provides a dynamic, contemporary and exciting opportunity for students to engage with the world around them. The course will inspire a love of Geography for lifelong learning, drawing on issues that are relevant to a student’s own learning of the subject in a variety of contexts. The course has been designed to strengthen geographical and fieldwork skills gained at GCSE and delve more deeply into content.
How will I be taught?
You will be taught through a combination of teacher-led lessons, group work and independent study. You will be able to develop your report writing, decision making/problem solving and presentation skills. There is a four-day residential
fieldtrip – always a highlight of the course!
How many hours a week private study will I have?
You should be spending 5 to 6 hours on your homework each week. In addition to the set homework you should read widely around the subject and keep up to date with current affairs – Geography really is ‘In the News’!
You’ll enjoy this course if…
You are interested in the world around you and you want to become a well informed and responsible citizen. “Geography is unique because it covers such a broad range of topics. You have the opportunity to explore both local and global issues. The fieldtrip provides a fantastic opportunity for the group to bond, and learning about a new part of the country is really interesting.” Year 13 Student.
Course Description: Components within the OCR A Level in Geography consist of:
Physical Systems: you will investigate examples and case studies at a range of scales to understand the dynamic nature of landscapes and the water and carbon cycles.
Human Interactions: you will investigate the actions, interactions and spatial patterns of people in places building a picture of how the world around you is shaped by humans, starting from the local and moving out to regional, national and
international scales.
Geographical Debates: you will be encouraged to reflect on and think critically about some of the most dynamic issues the planet faces including ’Hazardous Earth and Future of Food’.
Investigative Geography: you will be given the opportunity to undertake an independent investigation which is of particular interest to you, which can be related to any area of the specification.
Assessment
Paper 1: Physical Systems
External written examination, 22% of A Level (1 hour 30 mins)
Paper 2: Human Interactions
External written examination, 22% of A Level (1 hour 30 mins)
Paper 3: Geographical Debates
External written examination, 36% of A Level (2 hours 30 mins)
Paper 4: Investigative Geography
Non-examination assessment, 20% of A Level
For more information, contact Mrs B Thompson