geography
Geography is a relevant, dynamic subject, essential for understanding the increasingly complex world in which we live. We seek to inspire young people to explore the world around them through an understanding of fascinating human and physical geography topics, within the context of a wide range of places, landscapes and environments and to consider the links between them. Students are encouraged to reflect on their place within the world and the forces which connect them to places and people all over the world.
Our Geography Curriculum Map shows the areas of study covered in each year.
Key Stage 3
Year 7 and 8 are taught in their form groups and have one 70 minute period of Geography per week. The lessons include a wide range of activities and skills accessible for mixed ability classes. Each topic includes a mid-topic test and end of topic assessment to monitor progress throughout the year.
In Year 9 mixed ability groups are taught one 70 minute period of Geography per week and assessed in the same way as year 7 and 8. Topics include tectonic hazards, globalisation, ecosystems and learning about the continent of Asia. We hope the diverse range of topics engages and excites pupils to continue studying geography at KS4.
We value "Learning Outside the Classroom" and this is incorporated into our scheme of work wherever possible.
Key Stage 4
Geography is very popular at GCSE (over 100 students) and students have two geography lessons a week. The exam board is AQA offering a wide range of physical and human topics for the students to study.
The department values learning outside the classroom, and this is incorporated into the scheme of work wherever possible. The GCSE essential fieldwork is carried out in Portsmouth and a local river.
Key Stage 5
Throughout the A-Level courses fieldwork, statistical analysis, cartography, decision making and data handling skills are taught as an intrinsic part of the subject. Each year is treated separately and organised as such, with a resource folder prepared for each unit. Staff will be required to remain flexible as to which units they teach. Currently the units taught are:
Year 12: Tectonic Processes and Hazards, Coastal landscapes and changes, Globalisation, Diverse Places
Year 13: The water cycle and water insecurity, the carbon cycle and energy insecurity, Superpowers, Health human rights and intervention Students go on two field trips in Year 12 – a coastal study in East Sussex and a trip to East London and in Year 13 a four day residential trip to Slapton, Devon. There is also a bi-annual international trip to Iceland at Easter
Our Sixth Form curriculum
Enrichment Opportunities
Fieldwork is an important part of Geography and so, at GCSE, we have two day trips to carry out fieldwork, one at a local river and another to the city centre of Portsmouth.
At 6th form, students carry out fieldtrips to East London, the East Sussex coast as well as a four day trip to Slapton in Devon to collect data for their NEA. There is also an optional trip to Iceland for our sixth form students.
