Geography
Members of the Department
Mr Slattery
Mrs Savage
Mr Mulholland
Aims
The Geography department aims to awaken pupils' curiosity and to develop a respect for, and an understanding of the world in which they live. It inspires pupils to become global citizens by exploring their own place in the world, their values and responsibilities to other people, to the environment and to the sustainability of the planet. The study of Geography broadens their minds and develops a deeper appreciation of diverse human and physical environments, along with an understanding of the processes which have created them.
KS3
In Geography we study both the natural and the built environment. We explore the part we can play in shaping and protecting the environment around us. The human aspect of geography also looks at society. We explore our own personal space and the way societies differ globally.
KS4
At GCSE we follow the CCEA course, which is a relevant and up-to-date course based on all the main themes of Geography. It builds on the skill, knowledge and understanding developed at Key Stage 3 and allows for fieldwork opportunities. At GCSE pupils develop a wide range of interpersonal and geographical skills. Throughout the course, ICT is used to increase students’ understanding of different places and cultures.
The specification comprised of 3 units:
Unit 1 - Understanding our Natural World: River Environments, Coastal Environments, Our Changing Weather and Climate and The Restless Earth
Unit 2 - Living in our World: Population and Migration, Changing Urban Areas, Contrasts in World Development and Managing our Environment
Unit 3 – Fieldwork
The final mark is made up of two 1.5 hour examination papers (Units 1&2) which together are worth 80% and a 1 hour examination paper (Unit 3) worth 20%
Post-16
At St Joseph’s College, pupils study the CCEA GCE Geography specification.
Whether you just want to broaden your knowledge, plan to continue your studies through further education, or use this course to start your career, this course will provide you with the opportunity to gain transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, analysing, investigation, IT and map reading.
Geography at this level is divided into 3 modules in each year.
Year 13
AS 1: Physical Geography
Fluvial environments
Ecosystems
Atmosphere
AS 2: Human Geography
Population
Settlement
Development
AS3: Fieldwork Skills and Techniques in Geography
Year 14
A2 1: Physical Processes, Landforms and Management
It comprises 3 optional units of which we choose 2:
Plate Tectonics – Theory and Outcomes
Dynamic Coastal Environments
A2 2: Processes and Issues in Human Geography
It comprises 3 optional units of which we choose 2:
Planning for Sustainable Settlements
Tourism
A2 3: Decision Making in Geography
Career Opportunities
The close link between the subject and the world around us makes for a long list of varied careers. Some of these careers use Geography directly and in others, you will use the skills which you have developed in Geography.
Examples of careers paths include
Law
Teaching
Pharmacy
Working with Development or Aid Agencies
Town and Country Planning
Civil Service
Travel and Tourism
Weather Forecasting, presenting weather forecasts/travel programmes
Marketing
Accountancy/Banking
Social Work
Journalism
Marketing
Estate Agent
Engineering
Environmental Consultant
Pollution Analyst
Conservation Officer
Cartographer
Nursing
Transport Management