Why study A level geography?
Geography stimulates an interest in and a sense of wonder about places. It helps you make sense of a complex and dynamically changing world. It explains where places are, how places and landscapes are formed, how people and their environment interact, and how a diverse range of economies, societies and environments are interconnected. It builds on students’ own experiences to investigate places at all scales, from the personal to the global. By studying geography you will develop a greater understanding of the world around you including the many conflicts and challenges that we as a society will face in the future. You will become problem solvers, forward thinkers and the leaders of tomorrow.
Level: A level
Board: AQA
Head of department:
Mrs R Clifton
Entry requirement: Grade 6 GCSE geography; five grade 5s at GCSE including English
and maths
How is A level geography delivered and assessed?
| Year | Unit | Content | Assessment |
| 12 | Physical geography | Water and carbon cycles Coastal systems and landscapes Glaciated systems (option) | |
| Human geography | Changing places Contemporary urban environments (option) | ||
| Geographical skills and fieldwork | Data collection, interpretation, analysis | ||
| 13 | Paper 1: physical geography (40%) | Water and carbon cycles One optional topic (coasts, hazards, or glaciation) | 2-hours and 30-minute written exam |
| Paper 2: Human geography (40%) | Global systems and global governance Changing places Optional topic (e.g. population or urban) | 2-hours and 30-minute written exam | |
| Non-Exam Assessment (NEA) Independent Fieldwork Investigation (20%) | 3,000–4,000 word report based on student’s own fieldwork investigation | Internally assessedm externally moderated |
Assessment notes:
- Students must complete four days of fieldwork across the two years
- Optional topics may vary
- The NEA is a critical element, allowing students to explore a topic of personal interest within geography
