A Level Geography

What will you study and other information about A Level Geography

• What will I study?

  Paper 1 – Physical Geography

  Tectonic processes and hazards – We will examine locations at risk from tectonic hazards and explain how tectonic hazards have the potential to become disasters. Within this topic, we will also assess the management of tectonic hazards and disasters.

  Coastal landscapes & change – An investigation into coastal processes, landforms and landscapes, including the investigation of coastal risk and managing risks and conflicts.

  The Water Cycle and water insecurity – We will examine the operation and importance of the hydrological cycle and how changes can create short and long-term variations in the hydrological cycle. We will also evaluate issues around water security.

  The Carbon Cycle and energy security – We will examine the carbon cycle and explain the role it has in planetary health. We will evaluate consequences of the increasing demand for energy and human threats to the global climate system.

  Paper 2 – Human Geography

  Globalisation – In this unit, we will examine the factors that have led to the acceleration of globalisation and analyse the geographical impacts of globalisation. In addition, we will assess the development and environmental challenges of globalisation.

  Regenerating places – We will examine how and why places vary, the reasons why regeneration might be needed and how regeneration is managed. This will include a detailed assessment of the need for regeneration through the detailed examination of socio-economic and environmental factors.

  Superpowers – We will examine superpowers, assess their impacts, and examine how their spheres of influence and mechanisms of power have evolved over time.

  Migration, identity & sovereignty – An examination of the impacts of globalisation on international migration and nation-states in a globalised world. We will also evaluate the actions of global organisations and their impacts and threats to state sovereignty.

  Paper 3 – Synoptic Investigation

  This paper consists of a series of short and extended writing questions based on a scenario / setting outlined in an unseen resource booklet provided in the exam.

  NEA / Coursework

  Students have a free choice of their own investigation, providing that the title and scope of the investigation is related to the Geographical content covered in the specification.

• Equipment and Financial contributions

  No purchases are required for this course. 

  Students may wish to purchase their own course textbook for the A level course “Edexcel A Level Geography Book 1” ISBN-9781471856549 at an approximate cost of £25. However, copies of these will be made available in class. 

  Online booklets are available for each unit and will also be provided in a paper format. Students will have an opportunity to undertake fieldwork at a local level at no cost.

• Field trips, projects and employability opportunities

  Students will carry out 4 days of mandatory fieldwork in the local area. Students will have the opportunity to research work placements and potential EPQ investigations related to Geography. Students may have the opportunity to attend a Humanities department led overseas expedition. Opportunities to attend lectures from guest speakers, e.g. Lancaster University.