Geography
Contact : Mrs R Brennan Email : brennanr @ pocklingtonschool . com
Course : A Level Geography Exam Board : AQA
Geography at Pocklington deals with the ‘ real world ’. It has access to contemporary resources and relevance to current events . It is taught in a well-established department incorporating the latest technology . The teaching focus is on excellence and enjoyment , stimulating student interest whilst also aiming for high academic standards . The subject makes many connections with everyday life - how people live , work , travel and consume . Geography looks at the future as well as tracking the events of the past . It has relevance for the moral , spiritual and ethical dimensions of everyday living and gives students a window on the natural world and environmental issues . Its strength is its breadth and as such , it combines well with a number of subjects including Economics , Politics , Business Studies , History and Biology in particular .
COURSE ENTRY AND QUALIFICATIONS
A good grade at GCSE Geography is usual ( grade 6 or above ) but not absolutely necessary as a prerequisite for acceptance on the course .
CONTENT OF COURSE
The A level course allows for development of analytical skills , written and oral expression , communication and debate . These are all vital skills for Higher Education and employment . Students are expected to read widely and keep up to date with global geographical issues . Geography is a very practical subject and as much as possible we try to make pupils experience the subject ‘ hands on ’ through fieldwork and practical activities . There is a compulsory four day residential trip during the A level course at Blencathra Field Study Centre , Keswick . There is no cost for this trip .
GEOGRAPHY AS A QUALIFICATION FOR FURTHER STUDY AND CAREER OPTIONS
Geography is offered at degree level as both a science and an arts subject . Its versatility is illustrated by the wide range of careers in which Geography graduates find employment .
Students are recognised as having a high level of numeracy , literacy and analytical skills .
“ Employers rarely need narrow specialists . They need bright , committed and determined individuals with the ability to draw on what is happening in the real world . Geographers are stars in this respect !” ( D . Rhind , Chief Executive , Ordnance Survey )
COURSE OUTLINE
A level ( examining all components of the 2 year course )
PAPER CONTENT MARKS AVAILABLE
Component 1
Component 2
Component 3
Physical Geography ( Hazards , Water & Carbon , Coasts )
Human Geography ( Changing Places , Urban Environments , Global Systems and Governance )
Geography Fieldwork Investigation ( 3,000 to 4,000 words )
40 %
40 %
20 %
“ Geography is about understanding our world . It illuminates our past , explains the present and prepares us for the future . What could be more important than that ?”
Michael Palin , Comedian , Traveller and President of the Royal Geographical Society
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