Geography
Mission statement
Development of curious and responsible global citizens; inspired by the awe and wonder of the world with an understanding of the interactions between people and places.
Curriculum Intent
Year 7
Year 7 pupils begin their Key Stage 3 Geography course by find their place in the world with an introduction to Geography and map skills. Pupils will also work on developing their knowledge of the geography of the British Isles. Pupils will study the topic of Settlement and investigate the different factors affecting the location of settlements and debate where new homes should be built. They will later look in depth at India where they will study contrasting places in detail as well as covering the concept of globalisation. Later in the year pupils will explore the diverse Geography of Africa and also develop their fieldwork skills.
Year 8
In Year 8 pupils begin the year by studying the topic of Coasts and investigate the impact of coastal erosion on people and the environment. Pupils then go on to study the topic of Population – enquiring about current issues such as global population growth and migration. Two in depth country studies will also take place; China and Kenya, and comparisons between the countries will be made. Furthermore, pupils look at the topic of Weather and report on the issues of the greenhouse effect and climate change. To finish the year pupils will further develop their fieldwork skills by undertaking geographical enquiries.
Year 9
Year 9 commences with one of the most engaging aspects of Geography – Tectonic Activity. Pupils will learn about the events that can make our planet a hazardous place to live and the impacts they have on people. Pupils will complete country investigations into Russia and Brazil. Pupils will also study the topic of Rivers which will provide a good foundation of knowledge of physical processes should they decide to study Geography at GCSE. To finish the year pupils will explore the Geography of Antarctica and also build on refining their fieldwork skills.
Key Stage 3
At Key Stage 3 pupils are assessed for each topic with an end of topic test or extended writing assessment.
To find out more about the Geography Curriculum we are following at Key Stage 3 please contact the Subject Leader at info@stmarys.net
Useful resources for Key Stage 3 Geography
Key Stage 4
The study of GCSE Geography gives students the opportunity to understand more about the world, the challenges it faces and their place within it. Students will deepen their understanding of geographical processes, investigate the impact of change and of complex people-environment interactions and develop their investigative skills. The study of Geography enables young people to become globally and environmentally informed and thoughtful, enquiring citizens.
We follow the Edexcel GCSE (9-1) Geography A syllabus. There are three components to the course:
Component 1: The Physical Environment
- The changing landscapes of the UK.
- Weather hazards and climate change.
- Ecosystems, biodiversity and management.
- Written examination 1 hour and 30 minutes – 94 marks.
Component 2: The Human Environment
- Changing cities.
- Global development.
- Resource management.
- Written examination 1 hour and 30 minutes – 94 marks.
Component 3: Geographical Investigations: Fieldwork and UK Challenges
- Fieldwork.
- UK challenges.
- Written examination 1 hour and 30 minutes – 64 marks.
Pupils are assessed throughout the two years of GCSE Geography with mid topic and end of topic assessments. They will also be practising exam style questions throughout each topic.
More information can be found at the exam board’s website by clicking here
Useful resources for GCSE Geography
- Tomorrow’s Geography for Geography Edexcel GCSE A by Steph Warren
- Revise Edexcel GCSE (9-1) Geography A Revision Guide – Pearson
- Revise Edexcel GCSE (9-1) Geography A Revision Workbook - Pearson
- Grade (9-1) Geography GCSE Edexcel A Revision Guide - CGP
- BBC Bitesize
- Seneca Learning
- Time for Geography
Geography is important because it keeps us aware of current issues in the world and gives us a better understanding of the places and people around us.
- Martha, Year 13