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Geography

Basing its work on the National Curriculum, the department adopts a thematic approach where special emphasis is made on key geographical skills such as cartography. Located studies include Japan, Brazil and Bangladesh.

The department uses audio-visual resources as well as text book materials, and makes frequent use of practical work.

Topics covered in Years 7 – 9 include shopping, settlement, coasts, football, globalisation and plate tectonics.

GCSE

In Years 10 and 11, geography is a popular option following the AQA ‘A’ specification. At present there is one piece of coursework to be completed by each student, this being worth 25% of the final mark.

Geography is about the changing world and our place within it. Students develop new skills, a sense of place, an appreciation of the environment and an insight into important contemporary issues such as globalisation, interdependence and sustainable development.

Topics include tectonic activity, settlement, glaciers, industry, rivers, coasts and managing resources. Practical skills include cartography, graphicacy, geographical enquiry and ICT.

The examination consists of two written papers and the one piece of coursework which is an enquiry based on a local fieldwork investigation on the effects of visitor pressure on Thurstaston Hill. The course includes several practical activities including building a shanty town dwelling, a field visit to the glacial landscape of the Berwyn Mountains and a trip to the Lake District. The course is supported with excellent resources. Students will also undertake role-play and decision-making exercises which will immerse them in other cultures and other places and give them greater insights into our fascinating world.