PEARSON EDEXCEL GEOGRAPHY GCSE A (1GAO) 2016 ONWARDS
EDEXCEL A LEVEL
The Edexcel A Level Geography course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the complex relationships between human and physical environments, as well as the processes that shape our world.
It emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills, allowing students to explore a range of contemporary geographical issues and challenges.
Key Features:
Physical Geography: Students will study topics such as tectonic processes, coastal systems, ecosystems, and the water cycle. These topics delve into the natural processes that shape the Earth’s physical landscapes and environments.
Human Geography: The course covers urbanization, globalisation, development, migration, and the role of human activity in shaping landscapes and societies. Students examine the impact of human actions on the environment and the challenges these pose.
Geographical Skills: The curriculum emphasizes fieldwork, data analysis, and geographical inquiry, encouraging students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations. Geographic information systems (GIS) and map reading are key components of the course.
Independent Investigation: One of the highlights of the course is the Independent Geographical Investigation, where students design and conduct their own research project, developing practical and analytical skills.
Contemporary Issues: Students will explore global environmental issues like climate change, natural hazards, and sustainability, alongside social and economic issues such as inequality, migration, and urbanization.
Assessment: The course is assessed through written exams and a non-examined assessment (NEA). The exams cover physical and human geography topics, while the NEA focuses on the student’s independent investigation.
This course is ideal for students with an interest in both the natural world and the human systems that shape it, providing them with a well-rounded understanding of geography that can lead to various career paths in areas like environmental science, urban planning, international development, and more.
Course Breakdown:
Component 1: Physical Geography (Paper 1)
This component focuses on the natural environment, examining processes, systems, and their interrelationships. Topics include:
Tectonic Processes and Hazards
Earth structure and plate tectonics
Earthquake and volcanic activity
Management of tectonic hazards (e.g., earthquakes, volcanic eruptions)
Coastal Systems and Landscapes
Coastal processes (erosion, transportation, deposition)
Coastal landforms (e.g., cliffs, beaches, bays)
Coastal management strategies
The Water Cycle and Water Insecurity
Water cycle processes (precipitation, evaporation, infiltration)
Global water insecurity and water management
Impact of human activity on the water cycle
The Carbon Cycle and Energy Security
Carbon cycle processes and global carbon budgets
The role of carbon in climate change
Energy security and sustainability issues
Component 2: Human Geography (Paper 2)
This component explores the relationship between human activity and the environment, as well as global trends and challenges. Topics include:
Globalisation
Economic, social, and cultural effects of globalisation
Impacts of multinational corporations, trade, and communications
Global inequality and development issues
Regenerating Places
Urban and rural regeneration strategies
Case studies of regeneration in developed and developing areas
Social, economic, and environmental impacts of regeneration
Superpowers
The role and influence of superpowers (e.g., USA, China, Russia)
Geopolitical power dynamics and international relations
The impact of superpowers on global development and conflicts
Migration, Identity, and Sovereignty
Patterns and causes of migration (e.g., economic, social, political factors)
The impact of migration on societies and economies
Issues related to national identity and sovereignty
Component 3: Geographical Investigation (Non-Examined Assessment)
In this component, students complete an Independent Geographical Investigation, which is a fieldwork-based project. The investigation is based on data collected during fieldwork, and students apply geographical methods to analyze and evaluate the information.
Independent Project: Students select a geographical question or issue to investigate, typically linked to one of the course themes (physical or human geography).
Fieldwork: Students are required to conduct fieldwork, which involves gathering data through observation, surveys, or other methods.
Analysis: Students analyze their findings using geographical tools, techniques, and theories.
Report: The project culminates in a 3,000–4,000-word written report.
Assessment Overview:
Paper 1 (Physical Geography): 2 hours 15 minutes, 30% of the A-level.
Paper 2 (Human Geography): 2 hours 15 minutes, 30% of the A-level.
Non-Examined Assessment (Independent Investigation): 20% of the A-level.
Paper 3 (Synoptic Exam): 2 hours, 20% of the A-level. This exam assesses students’ ability to draw upon knowledge and understanding from both physical and human geography, often focusing on the interconnections between different geographical topics.
This structure allows students to develop both practical and theoretical understanding of geography, equipping them with valuable skills for further education and a wide range of careers.