GEOGRAPHY - A LEVEL

In the first week of Year 12 pupils will be given a copy of the syllabus and the format of the examination will be clearly explained. Basic texts are given to each pupil along with references to other texts in the library or for possible purchase. An indication of the expected workload is given and the need to use study time effectively stressed. Pupils are informed of expectations regarding background reading and note-taking, personal organisation and individual initiative. They are also notified of a residential field course to be organised to take place in the latter half of Year 12, attendance at which is strongly advised. Throughout Year 12 development of important study skills such as note-taking, essay planning, application of statistical techniques an information technology is assisted in all areas of the subject.

The department currently follows the EdExcel Modular A Syllabus. It comprises studies in physical, human and environmental geography and a personal enquiry. The course consists of six modules details of which are given in the table below. Further details about individual modules may be obtained from members of the Geography Department.

Geographers use each of the four communication skills: literacy, numeracy, articulacy and graphicacy. Problem solving skills are developed through: problem identification and analysis, data collection, use of information technology, analysis and presentation of findings and application of results. The development of a range of study skills is an important aim of teaching in Years 12 and 13. In Year 12 the application of statistical and cartographic techniques and information technology provides a firm foundation for the personal enquiry.

Internal Assessment: Pupils are assessed principally by means of essays and data response questions set and marked throughout the year and by formal examinations at the end of Year 12 and at the end of the Autumn Term in Year 13. Students are also assessed informally in terms of the value of their contribution in lessons, their grasp of ideas, the organisation of their files, their punctuality in handing in work etc.

External Assessment: External modular tests may be taken in January and June. The pattern and weighting of modular assessments are tabulated below. Entry for modules in January will be conditional on achieving target minimum grades in the mock examinations.

Module

Title

First Examined

Weighting%

1

Physical Environments 1

January (Year 13)

15

2

Physical Environments 2

June (Year 13)

15

3

Human Environments 1

January (Year 13)

15

4

Human Environments 2

January (Year 13)

15

6

Synoptic Assessment

June (Year 13

25

8

Personal Enquiry

March (Year 13)

15

A geographical education develops knowledge and skills useful for careers in administration, computer programming and systems analysis, education, finance, general management, librarianship, international aid and development services, landscape architecture, marketing and sales, personnel management, planning, research, surveying and cartography and travel and tourism. Geographical Association, Institute of British Geographers and the Royal Geographical Society