Geography

KS3

What will I study?

At KS3 students will cover a range of topics closely linked to the national curriculum which cover both human and physical geography topics.

Year 7

Global Biomes

The Development Gap

Africa

Weather and Climate

Dinosaurs

Amazing Places

Year 8

Fast Fashion

Natural Resources

Australia

Hydrosphere

Geography of Sport

Amazing Places

Year 9

Russia

Geopolitics and Conflict

Superpowers – India vs China

Tectonic Hazards

Amazing Places

GCSE Geography

Qualification:  GCSE

Examination Board:  AQA

Assessment And Course Description

Unit 1 – Living with the physical environment (35%)

Section A: The challenge of natural hazards

Students will be able to learn about natural hazards, weather hazards and the causes and impacts of climate change.

Section B: The living world

Students will be able to learn about the biosphere and different types of ecosystems that exist which include the tropical rainforest and hot deserts.

Section C: Physical landscapes in the UK

Students will be able to learn about the coastal landscapes and glacial landscapes of the UK.

Unit 2 – Challenges in the human environment (35%)

Section A: Urban issues and challenges

Students will be able to learn about the growth of urban areas in HIC and LIC through migration as well as the social, environmental and economic challenges and opportunities this presents.

Section B: The changing economic world

Students will be able to learn about the variations in economic development, strategies for reducing the development gap and look at the rapid economic development of LICs and NEEs and how this can affect the UKs economy.

Section C: The challenge of resource management

Students will be able to learn about the fundamental resources needed for human development and learn about the challenge of food as a resource

Unit 3 – Geographical applications (30%)

The students here will be required to draw together knowledge, understanding and skills from the other two units to show their breadth of understanding and an evaluative appreciation of the relationships between different aspects of geographical study.

Section A: Issue evaluation

Students will learn to become critical thinkers and problem solvers as be able to apply geographical skills and knowledge to particular issues.

Section B: Fieldwork

Fieldwork is an essential aspect of geography that allows students to relate the geographical learning to real experiences. The students will need to undertake two fieldworks to carry out primary data which will link with subject content.

Why Study Geography?

Young people should study geography because it helps them understand how the world around them works—its environments, cultures, and growing global challenges. By learning geography, students develop important skills like spatial thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to interpret maps and data. It also helps them make sense of issues such as climate change, natural disasters, and population growth, preparing them to make informed decisions in the future. Overall, geography encourages curiosity, global awareness, and a deeper appreciation of the planet we share.

Progression Routes

At the end of their three- or five-year journey students will have the knowledge and skills that can support entry into careers in areas like sustainability, disaster management, transport planning, conservation, and GIS (Geographic Information Systems). Geography builds strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills, it also provides a solid foundation for fields such as business, law, politics, and education. Overall, Geography opens the door to both academic and vocational pathways, offering students flexibility.

Geography Curriculum Overview