Why Geography?
Geography develops a knowledge and understanding of both the physical and human environments. It creates an understanding of the differing nature of places on the Earth’s surface at a range of scales, from local to global. At AS it creates an understanding of how people interact with their environment and how such interaction could be managed. The A2 units aim to extend the knowledge and understanding of physical and human concepts and processes begun at AS. The syllabus has a global perspective and looks at the changing nature of Geography in the 21st Century. It will develop the ability to make synoptic links between the different components within the syllabus, as well as developing the ability to analyse and synthesise geographical information in a variety of forms and from a range of sources.
Course Overview
The AS course covers Managing Physical Environments (River environments, coastal environments, cold environments and hot arid and semi-arid environments) and Managing Change in Human Environments (Managing urban change, managing rural change, the energy issue and the growth of tourism).
The A2 course covers Global Issues (Climatic hazards, population and resources, globalisation) and Geographical Skills. Field work is essential for this section of the course to develop a range of appropriate skills and techniques.This paper takes the place of a piece of individual coursework.
Assessment
AS Level assessment is by written examinations on Managing Physical Environments and Managing Change in Human Environments. A2 Level is assessed by written examinations on Global Issues and Geographical Skills.
Beyond A Level
Geographers are renowned for their skills in data handling, for their knowledge of the world around them and for their ability to communicate with others. Geography combines with any A Levels to provide a broad base for many university courses. Many students who study Geography at The Abbey School choose to continue with the subject at University.