You are all part of Geography! Do you want to understand more about the world you live in? Do you want to find out more about everyday issues that will affect you? Are you interested in how the world is changing?! If you are a curious student, if you are interested in fieldtrips, if you enjoy learning about different places and finding out about important world issues then Geography is definitely the course for you.
Course Overview
This exciting course offers you a balance between Physical and Human Geography. A Level Geography will give you a much more informed view of the world you live in.
Find out how to apply for this course
Entrance Requirements
To study Geography at A Level, students must achieve a Grade 5 or above in GCSE Geography, preferably a Grade 6 or higher. It is highly preferable to have studied a Geography GCSE course.
It is recommended that students also obtain a Grade 5 or above in GCSE Mathematics due to the practical mathematics involved in the course.
Awarding Body
Edexcel
Assessment
Paper 1 – Written Exam: 2 hours (30%)
Paper 2 – Written Exam: 2 hours (30%)
Paper 3 – Written Exam: 1 hour 45 minutes (20%)
Coursework: (20%)
Where could this course take me?
Leading to a career in:
- Cartography and meteorology
- Travel and Tourism
- Local government/planning
- Conservation
- And many others…
Geography develops your critical thinking, problem solving and your ability to describe and explain. You will further develop your ICT skills through Internet based research, Satellite technology and GIS.
Higher Education/Your future:
Geography is a flexible subject that compliments many other courses. It suits students with an interest in topical issues that affect our daily lives. It will equip you with many transferable skills.
Why choose this course?
If you are interested in the following, you would enjoy this Geography course:
- The physical world around you
- Challenges to the environment
- Bridging the arts and sciences
- Understanding other cultures
- Actively researching
- Learning how to become a good decision maker
What topics will I study?
Paper 1: 9GEO/01 Physical Geography
- Topic 1: Tectonic Processes and Hazards.
- Topic 2: Landscape Systems, Processes and Change. 2A Glaciated Landscapes and Change or 2B Coastal Landscapes and Change.
- Topic 5: The Water Cycle and Water Insecurity
- Topic 6: The Carbon Cycle and Energy Security.
Paper 2: 9GEO/02 Human Geography
- Topic 3: Globalisation.
- Topic 4: Shaping Places. 4A Regenerating Places or 4B Diverse Places.
- Topic 7: Superpowers.
- Topic 8: Global Development and Connections. 8A Health, Human Rights and Intervention or 8B Migration, Identity and Sovereignty.
Paper 3: 9GEO/03
- This is a synoptic decision making style paper with a resource booklet which will draw together many aspects of the course.
Coursework: 9GEO/04
- An independent investigation. Students will go on 4 days of Fieldwork. From work carried out they will complete a Geographical Investigation.
How is the course assessed?
3 exams and an NEA (coursework)
Paper 1: Written examination (2 hours). It is worth 30% towards the A Level qualification.
Paper 2: Written examination (2 hours). It is worth 30% towards the A Level qualification.
Paper 3: Written examination (1 hour 45 minutes). It is worth 20% towards the A Level qualification.
Coursework: Independent Investigation. 3000-4000 word report. This is worth 20% towards the A Level qualification.
What equipment will I need?
All fieldwork equipment will be provided as will textbooks, but it would be recommended to have your own copies along with recommended revision guides. Plus of course a love of finding out about the world you live in!
Fieldwork will involve a 4 day trip which is a compulsory part of the course. In addition, there will be an opportunity to take part in an international trip. In 2024, NSC Geography department are taking 35 students to South Africa. We will stay on a game reserve and see many animals such as elephants and Zebras as well as visit local communities.
What other subjects go well with Geography?
Geography goes well with many subjects due to the nature of the subject, a combination of Human and Physical Geography. Many A Level students take Geography alongside History, Ethics, Psychology, Sociology, Maths, English and Biology.
What summer work do I need to complete for this course?
Please find below the transition work to be completed over the Summer period.
