Examining Board - OCR
SUBJECT CONTENT
A-level geographers follow the OCR A Specification. The subject content is varied and interesting, covering the traditional aspects of geography - the physical environment and the human environment. Within these traditional areas of study, emphasis is placed on environmental awareness and hazardous environments. Students also undertake a personal study using skills and techniques associated with investigative work in geography and based on first and second-hand data.
AS Modules
| Unit |
Unit title
|
Topics
|
|
2680
|
The Physical Environment
|
Hydrological systems
Ecosystems
Atmospheric systems
The Lithosphere
|
|
2681
|
The Human Environment
|
Population
Rural and urban settlement
|
|
2682
|
Geographical investigation
|
1000 word report
|
A2 Modules
|
Unit
|
Unit Title
|
Topics
|
|
2683
|
Options in Physical and Human Geography
|
Glaciation and periglaciation
Tourism and recreation
|
|
2684
|
People and environment options
|
Hazardous environments.
Managing the rural environment
|
|
2685
|
Personal investigative study
|
2500 word report
|
METHODS OF STUDY
Preparation for the exam will include formal note-taking through teacher-led discussion. Every lesson is delivered using power-point presentations which students can access via the College shared area. Students will also develop the skills of personal research where they will evaluate sources of information such as varied texts, articles and maps. Students will also attend a number of fieldtrips at both AS and A2. The vast majority of homework tasks are past examination questions. Once completed students are provided with model answers.
Examination practice will involve essay writing, past paper analysis and practical work which involves cartographical and statistical techniques.
METHODS OF ASSESSMENT
At AS there are three written examinations:
The Physical Environment 1 hour 30 minutes
Human Environment 1 hour 15 minutes
Coursework [Geographical Investigation] involves completing a 1000 word report and has a written examination of 45 minutes.
At A2 there are two written examinations:
Physical and Human Options 1 hour 30 minutes
People and Environment Options 1 hour 30 minutes
Coursework [Personal Investigative Study] data is collected over the summer holiday, is a total of 2500 words and externally marked.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Students should normally aim to have GCSE Geography at grade C or above but we welcome all students with a genuine interest, enthusiasm and commitment. Geography allies itself extremely well with a whole range of other A-level subjects from Arts to Science disciplines and also with GNVQ courses.