Geography

Sixth Form > Our Pathways

Geography

Geography is a subject that that is relevant and relates to the real world – it often tackles the big issues. It considers physical and human interactions to describe, explain and evaluate the changing world around us.

Examination Board AQA

Specification Number 7037

Apply Now!

Sixth Form > Our Pathways

Geography

Geography is a subject that that is relevant and relates to the real world – it often tackles the big issues. It considers physical and human interactions to describe, explain and evaluate the changing world around us.

Examination Board AQA

Specification Number 7037

Apply Now

Let's go on a journey to find your future.

Wood Green Academy is one of Sandwell’s longest-established and highest-achieving Sixth Form Centres. 

Course Overview
Geography is a subject that that is relevant and relates to the real world. It considers Physical and Human interactions to describe, explain and evaluate the world around us and how it is changing. As a result, it is the only A-level qualification that universities accept as a ‘science’ and an ‘art’. Geography complements and has links with many other subjects such as Science, History, Business, Economics and Social Sciences.

 

Unit 1: Physical Geography 
  • Section A: Water and Carbon Cycles focuses on the major stores of water and carbon cycles at the Earth’s surface as well as human’s increasing impact on them through climate change.
  • Section B: Coastal Landscapes and Systems and Landscapes considers the dynamic landscapes that are found around our island and coastlines outside of the UK.
  • Section C: Hazards focuses on tectonic and atmospheric hazards and the potential risks they present to the human population.

 

Unit 2: Human Geography 
  • Section A: Global Systems and Global Governance considers globalization and its driving forces which have shaped the global economy and society.
  • Section B: Changing Places looks at people’s engagement with place and how these impact on their lives.
  • Section C: Population and the Environment is designed to explore the relationship between population numbers and other keys aspects of geography.

 

Unit 3: Geography Fieldwork Investigation 
This is an independent investigation, including data collection which is based on a topic of the student’s choice. This can be based on either human or physical aspects of geography, or a combination of both. This is marked by the class teacher and moderated by AQA.

 

Fieldwork Opportunities:

The specification requires 4 days of compulsory fieldwork. We organise multiple trips including a river study, a place study and a joint Geography / Biology 4 day residential to the Dorset Coast at the end of Year 12.

 

Course Leader of Geography

Miss Veale

Entry Requirements

Sixth Form Entry Criteria: 

A minimum of 5 9-5 GCSE grades, which must include a grade 5 or above in either English Language or English Literature. If students do not have a grade 4+ in GSCE Maths they will be required to re-sit this qualification. 

 
Special Entry Requirements:
  • GCSE Maths 5+
  • GCSE Geography 5+

Students must be prepared to work long hours outside lesson time to regularly review the topics covered.

English Language or English Literature 5
English Language or English Literature 5
Geography 5
Geography 5
Maths 5
Maths 5

Assessment Information

Assessment Topic Area Duration Value
Component 1Physical Geography2 hours 30 minute written exam40%
Component 2Human Geography2 hours 30 minute written exam40%
Component 3Geography Fieldwork Investigation3000-4000 word individual investigation write-up20%

Progression Route

Studying Geography provides you with many transferable skills which are relevant for work and further education and attractive to employers in all sectors. The course compliments many other subjects such as History, Science, Business, Economics and Social Sciences. At the end of the course many students continue to study the subject at university. The subject is unique in that it is accepted as an ‘arts’ or a ‘science’ for any degree course.

Careers in Geography 

How do I prepare? 

Recommended Reads
Prisoners of GeographyTim Marshall
FactfulnessHans Rosling
A Brief History of TomorrowYuval Noah Harari
21 Lessons for the 21st CenturyYuval Noah Harari
Useful Websites
United NationsExplore Website
World Trade OrganisationExplore Website
Global TransformationsExplore Website
Geography Activities

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Geography How to prepare for A Levels

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    Course Leader of Geography

    Miss Veale

    Laura.veale@woodgreenacademy.co.uk

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    A Level Geography Overview 2025-2026

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