Geography

Faculty of:

Humanities

Head of Faculty:

Ms L. Specchia

Members of staff:

  • Ms A. Ferguson (Head of Department)
  • Ms A. Begum
  • Ms A. Paczyinski

About the department
The study of geography is vital to making sense of the changing and dynamic world around us. Through a carefully planned; broad and balanced curriculum across all key stages, students are able to develop the knowledge and understanding of the world’s human and physical processes, the interactions between the two and the skills to become a critical thinker in an evolving world.

An analytical approach is taken to the study of these concepts through the interpretation of maps, graphs, images, statistics, use of GIS and the development of good geographical terminology.

Key stage 3 Geography
Students have the opportunity to explore a range of fascinating places and issues that bring together a strong understanding of the Earth’s key physical and human processes.

Through a variety of contemporary topics such tectonics, rivers, China and globalisation; pupils will learn about the unique features of different environments, and how human actions can affect such places, using problem solving skills to consider how these threats can be minimised. Students will have an opportunity to work independently, in groups and through fieldwork to help develop a variety of skills.

Above all, the key stage 3 curriculum has been designed to develop Students curiosity and fascination about the world and its people that will hopefully remain with them for the rest of their lives.

KS3 Online learning and homework
KS3 geography online learning and homework is all set on Frog. This Frog site also has a range of revision resources, quizzes and videos which students can access. Please see the link below.
https://frog.stepneygreen.towerhamlets.sch.uk/6d5c6af3c342c34090bd86c5e4d83a81


Key stage 4 Geography

Why study Geography?
Geography helps us to make sense of the world and gives us the chance to get to grips with some of the big questions that affect us.
Geography is taught through a range of accessible and engaging topics – providing a stimulating blend of traditional and contemporary Geography. This popular course covers the study of physical and human Geography and focuses on physical processes that produce diverse and dynamic landscapes over time.

Fieldwork is an essential part of the course, providing students with a brilliant opportunity to experience some of the things they have learnt about in class, seeing things differently and of course having fun. There are fieldwork opportunities in year 9 and 2 days’ compulsory fieldwork in year 10.

What skills will students develop?
The study of this course will give students the opportunity to develop communication skills, graphical and cartographical skills, technological skills including ICT and Geographical Information Systems, interpersonal skills through debate and discussion, literacy and numeracy skills – continually developed through written questions and problem solving skills. Enquiry based learning is at the forefront of the teaching of the subject, therefore allowing the opportunity for personalised and independent learning. Students are also encouraged to understand their role in society, by considering different viewpoints, values and attitudes.
This variety makes Geography a highly respected, successful and popular course.

GCSE Online learning and homework
GCSE geography online learning and homework is all set on Frog. This Frog site also has a range of revision resources, quizzes and videos which students can access. Please see the link below.

https://frog.stepneygreen.towerhamlets.sch.uk/f5443b6025ac1c7ea3204dcfb5118589

Geography B (9–1) from 2016 | Pearson qualifications

Key stage 5 Geography

Why study Geography at A Level?

“You can travel the seas, poles and deserts and see nothing. To really understand the world you need to get under the skin of the people and places. In other words, learn about geography. I can’t imagine a subject more relevant in schools. We’d all be lost without it.”

Michael Palin

Edexcel Exam Board
The A Level Course aims to be an engaging and contemporary based approach to Geography. This course develops a holistic understanding of geography which supports progression to undergraduate level while developing skills and qualities which are viewed highly by Russell Group universities and employers.

This course covers a good balance of both human and physical geography themes and offers the opportunity to carry out fieldwork on a residential trip.

Core themes:
• Water and Carbon Cycles
• Landscape Systems
• Global Systems Global Governance
• Changing Place; Changing Places

 A Level 
Year 1Area of Study 1: Dynamic Landscapes25% of A Level Course

1. Tectonic Plates and Hazards1. Coastal Landscapes
Area of study 2: Dynamic People25% of A Level Course

2. Globalisation3. Regenerating Places
Year 2Area of Study 3: Physical Systems and Sustainability25% of A Level Course

5. The Water Cycle and Water Insecurity
6. The Carbon Cycle and Energy Security
7. Climate Change Futures
Area of Study 4: Human Systems and Geopolitics25% of A Level Course

8. Superpowers
9. Global Development and Connections -Either: Health, Human Rights and Intervention OR Migration, Identity and Sovereignty

 Assessment Overview
 
Paper 1: 30% of qualification

Assessing topics 1, 2, 5, 6 and 7 and geographical skills.

2hrs

90 Marks
Paper 2: 30% of qualification

Assessing topics 3, 4, 8, 9 and geographical skills.

2hrs

90 Marks
Paper 3: 20% of qualification

Synoptic Investigation of a Geographical Issue

1hr 45min

60 Marks

Coursework: 20% of qualification

A Level Independent Investigation

60 Marks

Internally Assessed and Externally Moderated

Written Report of 3000-4000 words

GCSE Online learning and homework
A Level geography online learning and homework is all set on Frog. This Frog site also has a range of revision resources, additional reading and videos which students can access. Please see the link below.

https://frog.stepneygreen.towerhamlets.sch.uk/bca0b5a74b3346c7531bbed3882f543d

Edexcel A level Geography (2016) | Pearson qualifications

Electronic Learning:

BBC Bitesize for GCSE http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/geography/

And for KS3 http://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/ks3/geography/

 Exam Board: Edexcel