Geography

What will be taught?

Geography is taught so that pupils develop an appreciation and an awareness of the ways in which people and the environment interact.  The subject is concerned with the opportunities, challenges and constraints that face people in different places.  During the course, pupils will acquire and apply skills and techniques of map work, fieldwork and ICT needed to conduct geographical enquiry.

The syllabus consists of seven different sections which emphasise the study of important economic, social and environmental issues:

i) Physical geography, ice, rivers and sea

ii) Physical geography, weather and climate

iii) Sustainable development of the environment, energy production, desertification and global warming

iv) Economic activities and their consequences, agriculture, manufacturing industry and tourism

v) Economic and social changes which influence urban development in More and Less Economically Developed Countries

vi) Global citizenship and interdependence, the study of development and trans-national companies and globalisation.

vii) Coursework.  An individual study of 2500 words which is undertaken (except for fieldwork) in class time.

 

How will it be taught?

Geography is taught in mixed ability classes.  The subject has four periods a week.  Lessons involve the widespread use of various resources including videos, information technology, the internet, maps and photographs and the development of a wide range of skills.

 

How will it be examined?

The exam board is WJEC and the examination consists of two terminal written papers and one coursework item.

Terminal Written Papers:
Paper 1 - 2 hours - This consists of data response questions using Ordnance Survey map extracts and other stimulus material.  There are also extended prose questions. (37.5% of the total assessment).

Paper 2 - 2 hours - This consists of data response questions using Ordnance Survey map extracts and other stimulus material.  There are also extended prose questions. (37.5% of the total assessment).

Coursework Component:

Candidates present one item of work for assessment.  This will consist of a geographical investigation which must include fieldwork.  The enquiry is a maximum of 2,500 words and should be word processed.  This will be undertaken (except for the fieldwork) in class time. (25% of the total assessment).

There are two levels of the examination - (Foundation and Higher).  The Foundation Tier covers grades C to G. The Higher Tier covers Grades A* to D.  It is envisaged that all pupils will take the Higher Tier.