Course Description

Geography is the study of people and places. The S4 Geography course opens up the world to pupils and allows them to see the impact we have on Earth. Local and global issues of topical concern are covered.

Geography gives pupils the opportunity to develop a variety of skills which will help them in many ways both in school and in the wider world beyond. Describing places and explaining processes and issues aids their literacy. Handling figures and processing data helps their numeracy. Carrying out fieldwork and completing independent research projects will equip pupils with a strong set of investigation skills. The subject also fosters in pupils a positive attitude towards the values of sustainability and global citizenship.

The course is divided into three sections. In the Physical Environments unit, pupils will investigate how some of the UK’s most dramatic mountain and coastal landscapes have been formed and consider how these places can be managed sustainably. They will also explore the factors that affect the weather we experience and the impact it has on people. The Human Environments unit provides learners with the opportunity to compare issues facing developed and developing countries. These include differences in quality of life, population change, and recent developments in urban and rural areas. The Global Issues unit deepens pupils’ understanding of some of the most serious challenges facing people and the planet. We will study climate change in detail covering the causes and impacts of rising global temperatures and discussing strategies to manage the issue.

Assessment is an integral part of our teaching and learning process and we recognise that regular positive and constructive feedback is very important to help pupils progress. We will support learners to identify their strengths and next steps throughout the course using regular homework and assessments ranging from short topic tests to extended written tasks. Pupils are also encouraged to self-reflect and are given the opportunity throughout the year to assess their own progress and set their own targets.

Possible Careers

• Air cabin crew

• Archaeologist

• Building surveyor

• Cartographer

• Civil engineer

• Conservation officer

• Countryside ranger

• Dynamic positioning operator

• Estate agent

• Forest officer

• Gamekeeper

• General practice surveyor

• Geoscientist

• Land surveyor

• Landscape architect

• Merchant navy deck officer

• Meteorologist

• Minerals surveyor

• Oceanographer

• Planning and development surveyor

• Quantity surveyor

• Quarry engineer

• Rural surveyor

• Secondary school teacher

• Structural engineer

• Technical surveyor

• Tour manager

• Town planner.