Geography

Members of the Department

Mrs J Mason
Mrs L Corbett (HOD)
Mrs A McPolin
Mrs C McGeough
Mrs O Coulter
Mrs A Smith
Miss E Moffett

“The study of Geography is about more than just memorising places on a map. It’s about
understanding the complexity of our world, appreciating the diversity of cultures that exist
across continents. And in the end, it’s about using all that knowledge to help bridge divides
and bring people together”. Barack Obama

Aims

OLS Geography Department is a dynamic, innovative department. Geography has never been
more relevant than it is today. Earth as we know it has taken millions of years to form, and
yet the population explosions of recent times threatens to alter it all beyond recognition.

Through Geography we aim to awaken our pupils' natural curiosity of the world in which
they live and to develop a respect for, and an understanding of it. Geography 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.

Key Stage 3

At Key Stage 3 all pupils study Geography two hours a week. Pupils engage in a stimulating,
challenging and engaging programme of study which embraces Physical, Human and
Environmental Geography, and helps to equip them with a range of geographical skills.

Topics for Study

J1

• Introduction to Geography
• Mapping & Making Connections
• Rivers & Floods
• Africa
• Tourism project

J2

• Weather & Climate
• Population
• Urbanisation
• Coasts
• Tourism

J3

• Economic Activity
• Development
• The Middle East
• Tectonics
• Decision Making Exercise

Fieldwork in Key Stage 3

J2 travel to Newcastle to complete a Coastal and Tourism study.
J3 students split into groups and then visit local industries to complement their study of
Economic Activity, and to expose them to the wealth of careers that are available to them.


Key Stage 4 (GCSE)

At GCSE students build on the knowledge, understanding and skills developed throughout
KS3. The CCEA GCSE specification gives students a fascinating insight into how human and
physical processes interact. Students evaluate river and coastal management strategies and the
challenges we face with an increasingly extreme climate. They examine how the growing
worldwide population presents many challenges for Planet Earth. Students also develop as
global citizens, understanding the many challenges faced by refugees and those living in less
fortunate countries. They recognise how they can contribute to a sustainable and inclusive
future.

At GCSE pupils develop a wide range of interpersonal and geographical skills.
GCSE Geography contains 3 modules;

Unit 1 – Understanding Our Natural World (40%)
• River Environments
• Coastal Environments
• Our Changing Weather and Climate
• The Restless Earth

Unit 2 – Living in Our World (40%)
• Population and Migration
• Changing Urban Areas
• Contrasts in World Development
• Managing Our Environment

Unit 3 – Fieldwork (20%)
Students bring a fieldwork statement and table of data into the examination and then base
their answers on their knowledge of their own fieldwork. 

Key Stage 5 (GCE)

A Level Geography is a very popular choice at Our Lady’s. Students study the CCEA GCE
Geography specification. This specification provides students with a broad knowledge and
understanding of the processes and challenges facing our world, and builds on their
knowledge and understanding gained in GCSE Geography. Analytical and interpretative
skills are developed through the study of GCE Geography, as is the ability to make and
justify decisions.

AS Geography

Geography at AS contains 3 modules;

Physical Geography (AS 1)

• Processes that Shape Fluvial Environments
• Global and Local Ecosystems
• Weather and Climate

Human Geography (AS 2)

• Population
• Settlement
• Development

Fieldwork and Skills (AS 3)

Students are given the opportunity to take part in primary data collection on a geographical
issue. Students travel to Murlough National Nature Reserve and complete a study of sand
dune succession. A brief fieldwork report is completed and used in the exam to answer
questions on their fieldwork. This paper also contains questions testing general geographical
skills.

A2 Geography

Geography at A2 also contains 3 modules;
Physical Geography (A2 1)
• Plate Tectonics Theory and Outcomes
• Dynamic Coastal Environments
Human Geography (A2 2)
• Ethnic Diversity
• Tourism
Decision Making in Geography (A2 3)
In this exam students are presented with a real world issue and all the arguments surrounding
it. Students analyse the information, examine conflicting values, and make and justify their
decision.

Career Opportunities

The close link between Geography and the world around us makes for a long list of varied
careers. Some of these careers use Geography directly and others use the analytical and
research skills developed through the study of Geography.

Geography is an interdisciplinary subject, bridging the gap between the arts and sciences. The
Russell Group, which represents 24 leading UK universities, lists Geography as a “facilitating
subject”. Many of the top universities will ask you to have at least one A Level in a
facilitating subject when you apply, so Geography is a very useful A Level to have.
Jobs directly related Geography:

• Cartographer
• Commercial/residential surveyor
• Coastal engineer
• Development or aid agency worker
• Environmental consultant
• Volcanologist
• Geographical Information Systems officer
• Planning and development surveyor
• Pollution analyst
• Environmental lawyer
• Secondary school teacher
• Town planner

Jobs where Geography would be useful:

• Logistics and distribution manager
• Market researcher
• Nature conservation officer
• Tourism officer
• Transport planner
• Manager
• Accountant