Exam board
Pearson Edexcel
How is this subject examined?
- Paper 1 – Written examination: 2 hours and 15 minutes, 30% of the qualification.
- Paper 2 – Written examination: 2 hours and 15 minutes, 30% of the qualification.
- Paper 3 – Written examination: 2 hours and 15 minutes, 20% of the qualification. ? Non-examination assessment 20% of the qualification (the student defines a question or issue for investigation, relating to the compulsory or optional content. The topic may relate to any aspect of Geography contained within the specification).
What is this course about?
Geography is the science that studies the relationship between people and their environment. Geography at ICS is meant to help students understand our world, how interesting it is and how to make it a better place to live in. Our curriculum is structured to deepen understanding of geographical processes, illuminate thoughts on the impact of change and of complex people-environment interactions, highlight the dynamic links and interrelationships between places and environments at different scales, and develop students’ competence in using a wide range of geographical investigative skills and approaches.
Why study the course?
Geography will provide you with knowledge and transferable skills that will reward you personally and advance you professionally. There are opportunities for out of class learning, and a number of projects and experiments for students to develop independent learning skills. Geography provides an avenue to make sense of the world around you. It’s relatable, relevant, and enjoyable.
Where can this course take you?
A-Level Geography provides a strong foundation to study Geography, Geology, Environmental Science or Natural Sciences at university. The skills you develop in this subject enable you to be successful in a range of occupations including Law, Urban Planning, Diplomatic Service and International Relations, Politics and Teaching.
Minimum GCSE grades: 7-9 in Geography.
Complementary subjects: Geography involves critical thinking, essay writing and using statistics. It therefore complements Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Economics, Psychology and Sociology.
How we elevate beyond the specification
We are ambitious for our students to be intellectually curious and accomplished, such that they hone the skills and knowledge sought by academic and cultural institutions of excellence. Our extra-curricular English programme aims to help students to:
- Attend conferences and study-day sessions at the Royal Geographical Society.
- Publish work with ‘Routes’ (peer-reviewed digital journal for sixth form and undergraduate geographers).
- Royal Geographical Society David W. Smith Memorial Prize.
- The Nuffield Research Placement Programme.
- The Royal Geographical Society Young Geographer of the Year award.
- Participate in a Mock COP event.