Geography

You will be aware that geography reaches the news headlines on a daily basis – from climate change to population growth. These are issues which governments and world leaders are concerned with. As a consumer in society you will also be aware of the changing nature and pattern of retailing: the availability of internet shopping and out-of-town retail stores. Tourism, the world’s fastest growing industry, is having a massive impact environmentally and on the economy of different countries. We look at the theory behind many of the issues above (and others) along with the different policies and approaches people and governments use. Geography looks at current issues in the world and in the UK (including the changes in our rural communities) as well as looking at the physical environment.

At A Level BGS is able to offer specialist teachers in both physical and human geography. This enables you to explore in more detail and develop a greater understanding of the physical and human world in which we live. In order to achieve an understanding of the complex inter-relationships between people and environment it is first essential to provide a sound knowledge and understanding of physical and human geography. The Advanced Subsidiary Specification provides a coherent course in physical and human geography, promotes an investigative approach, and lays a sound foundation for further study at A2. The A2 modules include opportunities for candidates to study selected aspects of physical and human geography at greater depth, and to develop their investigative skills. You have a choice of constructing a piece of coursework on a topic of your choosing, or sitting the investigative skills exam at A2.

In addition to this geography also offers residential fieldwork (to the Gower at AS and the Alps at A2) as part of the course. This is a time to study the environments in more detail and gives an opportunity to construct a piece of independent coursework –team work and independent research are two key areas that help geographers stand out when applying for university. In addition to this, the department also runs optional field trips, such as the popular trip to Iceland.

Why take geography?
AS and A2 geography builds on the skills you have already acquired at GCSE. It is unique in bridging the divide between science and the arts. For this reason it combines well with numerous subjects.
You will become far more aware of the world around you, and the issues and theories behind what is presented in the papers and on TV. Economies, environments and cultures are linked across the world as never before. As a citizen of the 21st century you will have to understand these global interconnections and interdependencies in order to maintain and improve economic and social wellbeing and to minimise damage to the environment.
Those who take geography to university level enter many different careers, thanks to the range of skills acquired (both scientific and social). Don’t just take our word for it: the statistics from AGCAS show how geographers are among the most employable graduates compared to other subjects. This is because, when studying geography, you develop numerous skills demanded in today’s workplace. The study of geography keeps many different employment options open.

For details of the A Level curriculum please visit www.ocr.org.uk