Geography at Sprowston

 

 

GEOGRAPHY

 

Why choose Geography?

Your study of Geography at AS and A-Level will enable you to develop your knowledge and understanding of physical and human environments and the relationships between them.

You will study many important human and environmental issues, which are of concern today.

In addition you will develop other more general skills which will be of value when you move into higher education or work.  These include writing and presentational skills, the use of research methods, data collection, statistical analysis and competence in ICT.

 

What does the course involve?

 

AS (OCRA - 3832)

There are three modules:

 

THE PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT -

Hydrological systems - including a study of river drainage basins and their management.

 

Ecosystems - this unit will develop your understanding of how plants, animals, humans and their environment interact at different scales.  It includes local studies of sand dunes and salt marshes and also of larger ecosystems.

Atmospheric systems - including an understanding of weather phenomena and the influence of human activity on the atmosphere

The lithosphere - including a study of plate tectonics, weathering and slopes.

 

THE HUMAN ENVIRONMENT -

Population - patterns, processes and change

Rural and urban settlements - patterns, processes and change.

 

GEOGRAPHICAL INVESTIGATION -

All students will carry out a short geographical investigation (no more than 1000 words) which is based on fieldwork and secondary data collection.

 

How is this course taught?

 

Lessons and personal study will involve a variety of activities:

The interpretation and presentation of maps, photographs and sketches

The use of ICT for research and to present data and reports

Discussion and notemaking

Data analysis and presentation, including the application of statistical techniques

Research and report writing

Individual presentations

Thinking tasks, decision making tasks and problem solving

Fieldwork and individual investigations

 

Fieldwork will take place at several locations in East Anglia and may include a residential visit.

 

How is the course assessed?

 

The Physical Environment    11/2 hour exam

The Human Environment      11/4 hour exam

Geographical Investigation  11/4 hour exam

Options in Physical and        11/2 hour exam

Human Geography               

People and Environment      11/2 hour exam

Options

Personal Investigation          Coursework

 

Why is it valuable?

 

The skills acquired in a study of Geography at AS and A2 Level are of value in many careers and as a preparation for higher education.  The course provides a good general qualification.

 

However Geography, in combination with other appropriate subjects, can be an advantage in more specific areas:

Urban and Rural planning

Environmental Management

International Aid and Development Services

Meteorology

Surveying

Water Management

Tourism and leisure services

Costal Management

 

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