Geography

Assessment

Paper 1 Physical Geography 30% of the A Level Written examination: 2 hours and 15 minutes Topic 1: Tectonic Processes and Hazards Topic 2: Landscape Systems, Processes and Change – including Coastal Landscapes and Change Topic 5: The Water Cycle and Water Insecurity Topic 6: The Carbon Cycle and Energy Security Paper 2 Human Geography 30% of the A Level Written examination: 2 hours and 15 minutes Topic 3: Globalisation Topic 4: Shaping Places – including Regenerating Places Topic 7: Superpowers Topic 8: Global Development and Connections – including Migration, Identity and Sovereignty Paper 3 Synoptic 20% of the A Level Written examination: 2 hours and 15 minutes This exam is based on a real place facing a geographical issue that needs evaluating (e.g. should we be exploiting natural resources environmentally sensitive areas like oil in the Arctic?). The exam board choose different places and issues for each exam series, based on the topics 1-8. Coursework Independent Investigation (NEA) 20% of the A Level This section involves students carrying out an independent investigation relating to any aspect of geography contained within the specification. It requires students to collect primary and secondary research during a compulsory residential field trip (covid depending). This data is then analyzed and evaluated to produce a written report of 3000-4000 words which is submitted to the examinations board for assessment. This trip usually takes place at the beginning of Year 13 and costs approximately £350. Those students who qualify for the Bursary can use their funds to cover these costs. This trip, like all other trips, is subject to government legislation due to Covid 19 and may have to change if social distancing is still in effect.