Geography
Head of Department: Mrs A C Roll
The world in which we live is likely to change more in the next 50 years than it has ever done before. Our role in that change is more important than ever. Geography explains the changes and helps to prepare people. Geographers have a unique viewpoint combining political and economic aspects with an understanding of the physical processes. Geography develops the ability to combine scientific principles with economic awareness, environmental concern and an appreciation and tolerance of peoples’ attitudes and values.
There are four units, each concentrating on the interaction between people and environments.
People and the Physical World
- Plate Tectonics
- Rivers
- Coasts
People and their Needs
- Quality of Life
- Economic Activities
- Energy
People and Places to Live
People and the Environment
- Resource Development and Settlement the Local Environment
- Management of Environment
- Global Environment
In addition, candidates are also taught how to interpret maps and diagrams.
Candidates will be entered for the higher tier. There are two examination papers. Candidates must answer one question from each unit on the first paper (four out of eight questions). For the second paper, candidates must answer both questions. These test interpretation of maps and diagrams.
Coursework
Candidates submit one piece of coursework, which is a teacher-guided study. This is worth 25% of the final assessment. All candidates are taken on a one-day field course at the end of the Summer Term in Year 10, to enable them to collect sufficient data to meet the requirements. This year we will visit the Malvern Hills to study tourism and how the area is managed as a honeypot site. Pupils are then encouraged to carry out extension work to enable them to achieve the maximum marks.