The course will develop an understanding and knowledge of the main components of Physical and Human Geography, the processes operating, interactions between them, the problems and solutions relating to them. Course Content There is a balance of physical and human geography. AS (Year 1) Unit 1 – Physical & Human Geography The study of core geographical concepts along with contrasting themes of contemporary or environmental impact, management and sustainability. Candidates must study the core and then select one of the physical options and one of the human options. Core physical section: Rivers, floods and management Core Human section: Population changes Optional physical topics: Cold environments Coastal environments Desert environments Optional human topics: Food supply issues Energy issues Health issues Unit 2 - Geographical skills A geographical skills paper based on the content of unit 1. Skills include: Investigative Cartographic Graphical ICT Statistical A2 (Year 2) Unit 3 – Contemporary Geographical Issues An issues based approach to contemporary geographical themes. Candidates must select three topics: at least one from the physical options and at least one from the human options. Optional Physical topics: Plate tectonics and associated hazards Weather and climate and associated hazards Ecosystems Change and Challenge Optional Human topics: World cities Development and globalization Contemporary conflicts and challenges Unit 4 – Geographical Issue Evaluation This unit gives candidates the opportunity to use their skills of analysis, synthesis and evaluation. An Advance Information booklet is pre-released 2 months prior to the exam to facilitate candidates’ research into an area which extends from the specification content. Teaching and Learning Skills A variety of activities will be used and students will be expected to use the college library and IT facilities. There will be a number of fieldtrips, both local and further afield, during the programme.

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