AS Geography

Geography
Do you want to study a subject that focuses on 21st century issues such as the rise of super powers and increasing global problems such as climate change? You do? Then Geography is the ideal subject for you as it combines a range of human and physical units to give you a balanced outlook on our world and the issues that affect it. The modules in geography cover a wide range of current events and world problems such as the effects of natural hazards, global warming, migration and the plight of refugees.

Field work is an integral part of the syllabus allowing you to apply the theory you learn in class in practical situations. This will involve a combination of local and residential field trips. Currently the department also run trips to Switzerland, Iceland and is constantly exploring new possibilities! There is no longer a coursework element to the course.

Underpinning the department is an excellent team of skilled and dedicated teachers and outstanding resources. The suite of Geography rooms is equipped with outstanding facilities including networked computers and a dedicated student study room. The department is constantly exploring innovative strategies to enhance the achievements of students and to equip them for life outside the college.

What Will I Learn On This Course?

· A knowledge of the processes and features of our natural and human environment
· A comprehension of the problems facing the developed and developing world
· An understanding of the role of governments and organizations play in decision-making and
management
· An appreciation of the importance of sustainable development

Students use the intranet, Internet, CD Roms, magazines and texts as well as Microsoft applications such as Word, PowerPoint and Excel to support their learning. Courses are delivered through a range of approaches from debate, role play and group presentations to formal lessons, individual research, report writing and assessments. Emphasis is placed on developing each student's learning style and developing key skills.

Course Content And Method Of Assessment

For your AS you will study two Core Units and two Optional Units, which will cover aspects of both Human and Physical Geography. All units will be examined.

The Core units are World at Risk and Going Global. World at risk covers global hazards and climate change and the challenges these present for the future. Going Global focuses on globalisation, global networks and the pressures of population and migration.

Geographical Investigations is the optional unit for which you will be studying Extreme Weather and Rebranding Places. This module will be examined but will involve compulsory fieldwork.

At A2 a range of global issues are studied in the Contested Planet module, ranging from biodiversity under threat to superpower geographies and geopolitics. Independent and in depth research into one of a range of current and dynamic topics is an essential part of the final A2 Geography module leading to an essay based exam.

This syllabus allows students to understand how Geography interacts with the world around us and how we can influence that world.

After The Course

Last year, approximately a third of the second years applied to universities to read Geography or such associated degrees as Geology, Geographical Information Systems, Planning, Earth Science, Environmental Science, Management, Geological Hazards, Hydrology or Meteorology.

Subject Combinations

Geography combines well with almost all other AS and A level subjects and can lead to a range of exciting career options! As the world around us changes as do the opportunities for geographers. You could go into oceanography or risk management, water conservation in LEDCs or wildlife conservation in MEDCs or maybe you will take up one of the many opportunities in environmental management, monitoring and conservation. Whatever you want to do in the future geography will provide you with a widely recognized range of transferable skills that most employers actively seek out.

Entry Requirements

A Grade C in English, and usually a grade C or above in Geography, although it is not a requirement that you studied the subject at GCSE.

Whether you have taken Geography at GCSE or not, it is important is that you have an inquiring mind, a keen interest in the environment and current affairs and a willingness to explore new ideas.