We believe that geographical skills and knowledge are key components of a broad and rich curriculum. Geography is challenging, engaging and topical – it is all around us and we aim to inspire students with a curiosity and fascination about the world which will never leave them.
Geography develops skills which are transferable across subjects and hold you in good stead for future study and work.
Key Stage 3
Year 7
We have identified in geography a set of core skills which we feel makes a good geographer and also stand students in good stead if they progress to GCSE level. Our lessons, resources and assessments relate to these core skills, enabling teachers to clearly identify ‘where students are at’ as well as strengths and weaknesses. Topics in year 7 include the ‘restless earth’, weather and climate and Africa. We include regular references to and application of the RICH ethos.
Year 8
In year 8 we also focus on the aforementioned core skills. Topics include tropical rainforests, development, rivers and China.
Key Stage 4
GCSE
We now start GCSE geography in year 9 to enable students to acquire a suitably deep understanding of key concepts and further enhance skills which have been developed over KS3. We feel this gives students the best opportunity of achieving their potential.
The course consists of three units:
Unit 1
In this unit we study the challenge of natural hazards, UK physical landscapes and the living world. The exam is worth 35% of the final grade.
Unit 2
In this unit we study the urban issues and challenges, the changing economic world and resource management. The exam is worth 35% of the final grade.
Unit 3
Students complete fieldwork based on a local river and tourism in Tynemouth. They also receive ‘pre-release’ material on a topical geographical issue which we thoroughly explore. The exam asks questions on both of these elements and is worth 30% of the final grade.
To find out more please get in touch with the Head of Georgraphy, John Graham on John.Graham@northgosforth.co.uk