Geography

Course summary

In Geography, we help you analyze the relationship between people and the world we live in. You study an even mix of human and physical geography topics, including in the first year the challenges of coastal landscapes, how people live in cities today, and the different experiences people have of place. We examine hazardous environments, the water and carbon cycles, and the importance in our world of various forms of globalization in the second year. You will experience 6 days of fieldwork, including a three-day residential trip to the Lake District, to help you build skills to help you devise your geographical investigation. The course is taught over two years and comprises an equal amount of Human and Physical Geography. Geographical skills are embedded throughout. Human Geography Topics • Contemporary Urban Environments, examining growth and change in today’s cities, and the challenges presented. • Global Systems and Global Governance, looking at key features of the global economy and society, from big corporations to climate change. • Changing Places, considering the nature and character of locations and people’s interaction with them, focused on Wasdale in the Western Lake District and Darlington. Physical Geography Topics • Coastal Systems, looking at the processes that shape these dynamic environments. • Water and Carbon Cycles, examining the magnitude and significance of these vital processes. • Natural hazards, focusing on the nature and impacts of events such as volcanic eruptions and hurricanes. • Geographical Investigation (Coursework). This piece of work leads to a report of around 4,000 words. It is based on data collected during your independent fieldwork. You conduct your independent investigation based on a question or issue that you have defined. Data presentation, analysis, and extended writing are integral.