Geography
Course Information
Geography is highly valued by universities as an A Level choice, and combines well with both arts and science subjects. It can be a facilitating subject - that is a subject most likely to be required or preferred for entry to degree courses. Although both human and physical geography is studied at A level, if taking this subject further, students often specialise in one or the other.
This AQA A Level Geography course will be examined at the end of Year 13. Students will study:
- Paper 1 - Physical Geography (40%)
Water and carbon cycles
Coastal systems and landscapes
Hazards
- Paper 2 - Human Geography (40%)
Global systems and governance
Changing places
Contemporary Urban Environments
In addition to the two exam papers, students also have to undertake the NEA (None Examined Assessment)
- NEA - Fieldwork (20%)
This is an independent investigation. Students have to conduct their own fieldwork, concluding in a 4000 word write-up, the focus of which can be taken from anywhere across the entire A level specification.
Assessment
Paper 1—2.5 hour exam
Paper 2—2.5 hour exam
NEA—Teacher assessed, moderated by the exam board
Transferable Skills
Geography is seen as a facilitating subject, as students develop many transferable skills. These include:
- written and oral communications skills, including report writing and data presentation.
- the ability to understand abstract concepts and articulate these to a range of audiences.
- planning and problem-solving skills.
- creative thinking and the ability to recognise the moral and ethical issues involved in debates.
What can I use this qualification for?
Geography is useful whether you are going to study at university, get an apprenticeship or venture into the world of work.
Here are some areas it could help with:
- Psychology
- Environmental Science
- Oceanography
- Geology
