Geography

The Course

In our changing world, nothing changes more than Geography, it is a living, breathing subject constantly adapting itself. Dynamic and relevant, geography poses a great adventure with a purpose.

Students who study Geography will gain an understanding of the world around them and learn about the effect the environment has on people and the communities in which they live. You will develop a variety of analytical skills through practical work including fieldwork and decision-making exercises. These can then be applied across the curriculum. As part of your course, you will have the opportunity to take part in an outdoor pursuits residential weekend as well as an international trip to Italy or Iceland. We hope that both of these will reinforce the theoretical concepts you will study within your classroom.

Geography adopts an enquiry approach to the study of geographical information, issues and concepts. It is based on the principle that geographical education will enable you to become critical and reflective thinkers by engaging actively in the enquiry process. Content is organised around key questions and you are encouraged to pose geographical questions of your own.

Course Content

Unit 1: Changing Physical and Human Landscapes (Assessment: 1 ½ hour exam in Year 11- 40%)

  • Landscapes and Physical Processes (Rivers and Coasts)

  • Rural-urban Links

  • Coastal Management

Unit 2: Environmental and Development Issues (Assessment: 1 ½ hour exam in Year 11- 40%)

  • Weather, Climate and Ecosystems

  • Development and Resource Issues

  • Environmental Challenges

Unit 3: Fieldwork Enquiry Questions (Assessment: November of Year 11 – 20%)

Learners are given the opportunity to develop their skills of geographical enquiry through fieldwork. They are expected to undertake two fieldwork enquiries within the local area, each in a contrasting environment. Past examples of this include studying the effects of major sporting events in Tenby, examining the effectiveness of coastal management strategies in Saundersfoot Bay and investigating river characteristics in the Preseli Mountains.

Other Information

This course was first assessed by the WJEC exam board in 2018. As a result of this it has been designed around current global and national issues to make the course relevant and exciting for pupils.