New insights are afforded by topics as varied as the hydrological cycle, population change and the ever-changing topics of migration and climate change.

Geographers are both literate and numerate, having the ability to analyse concepts from a scientific, human, physical or environmental viewpoint. Geography is a multi-disciplinary subject and is a highly regarded A-Level by Universities.

Physical Geography tends to be a concrete factual subject whereas Human Geography gives scope for discussion, argument and even disagreement! The study of both human and physical geography as part of the new A-Level produces rounded, analytical and sought-after students.

The department also has close links with the School of Geography at the University of Lincoln where students are able to attend undergraduate lectures and speak with lecturers to build on their knowledge and understanding at a higher level.

External speakers are often invited to speak with our A-Level students; speakers in the past have included the Geographical Association and the Environment Agency.

Visits

There is no compulsory fieldwork required for this specification, however we understand the value and enjoyment fieldwork provides in Geography. Therefore, LMS students are offered the opportunity to participate in a residential visit during their A-Level to further enhance their understanding around the topics studied in class. Past destinations have included Snowdonia, the North Yorkshire Moors and The Lake District.

Course Content and Methodology

Core Physical

• Hydrology and Fluvial Geomorphology
• Atmosphere and Weather
• Rocks and Weathering

Core Human

• Population
• Migration
• Settlement Dynamics

Advanced Physical

• Coastal Environments
• Hazardous Environments

Advanced Human

• Global interdependence
• Economic transition

Lessons are taught in mixed ability groups and include a variety of teacher led, personal investigation and group work tasks.

Individual and student presentations form part of the experience as well as a number of ‘hands on’ modelling activities including fieldwork equipment, modelling clay and creative lessons.

Course Requirements

GCSE Geography (at 6 or above) is most preferable. Students should have a passion for knowledge and will need to invest a minimum of 3 hours a week for reading, personal investigation and homework. Students must have good use of the English language (reading, writing and speaking) for the 100% written assessment.

Assessment

Exam board: AQA course code: 7037

The examination is a mix of an extended fieldwork investigation project (written in year 2) and two terminal written examinations. Students will need to use both English and Mathematical skills in order to interpret and analyse data, draw judgements, justify, conclude and evaluate. Extended 20 mark questions are required in essay style answers.

Component one:

Physical Geography Written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes, 120 marks, 40% of A-Level

Component two:

Human Geography Written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes, 120 marks, 40% of A-Level

Component three:

Geography Fieldwork Investigation Students complete an individual investigation which is 3,000–4,000 words on a topic of their own choice which is linked to the specification (60 marks/20% of A-Level)

Facilities