Geography
Geography is the study of the world around us, its landscapes, peoples, atmosphere and environments. It is also increasingly about the role we play in all aspects of our world.
Key Stage 3
At Key Stage 3 we follow a broad Programme of Study to introduce pupils to a wide range of geographical knowledge, issues and skills. This affords all pupils the opportunity to find an area or group of areas within geography to attract their interest. Several of these topics are then studied in further detail at GCSE level.
The study of geography encourages pupils to make connections between different pieces of information, to form opinions, make decisions and create well thought out arguments based on evidence. It allows them to build upon their knowledge and understanding of the world in which they live and gain a deeper understanding of their role and place in our world. Geographers also develop their literacy, numeracy and digital skills through the study of world issues, skills which are much sought after in the work place.
The topics covered at Key Stage 3 are as follows:
Year 8:
- What is Geography?
- How do we study geography?
- Weather and Climate
- Ecosystems
Year 9:
- Population
- Settlement
- Energy
- Water and Ice
- Climate Change
Year 10:
- Earth and Geology
- Development
- Industry
- Mapskills revisited
Key Stage 4
At GCSE level we follow the CCEA specification. This involves studying for three examinations as follows:
Unit 1: Understanding the Natural World - worth 40% of final result
- Theme A: River Environments
- Theme B: Coastal Environments
- Theme C: Our Changing Weather and Climate
- Theme D: The Restless Earth
Unit 2: Living in our World - worth 40% of final result
- Theme A: Population and Migration
- Theme B: Changing Urban Areas
- Theme C: Contrasts in World Development
- Theme D: Managing our Environment
Unit 3: Fieldwork assessment - worth 20% of final result
- A one hour examination based on the results collected during a field trip, usually a river study.
