Geography

Geography quote

Intent

Geography allows us as humans to survive on, and make sense of, our home planet, Earth. Without geographical knowledge and understanding, the systems that underpin modern society would falter. Today, these systems are becoming increasingly under threat due to population increase, climate change, geopolitical tensions and ecosystem degradation. Our very survival on Earth depends on our understanding of it. It is imperative humanity does not lose powerful geographical knowledge, making it a vital part of the Meridian curriculum.

Learning hours

Year group	7	8	9	10	11
Learning hours per week	2	2	2	2	2

Knowledge, Understanding and Skills

In KS3 Geography, students develop a range of essential skills that build on their KS2 learning and prepare them for KS4. Key skills include map reading, where they interpret different types of maps, grid references, and scales to analyze locations and spatial patterns. They also refine their ability to interpret data, learning to read graphs, charts, and statistics to understand geographical trends and relationships. Critical thinking is another fundamental skill, allowing students to question sources, evaluate different perspectives, and make informed decisions about global challenges such as climate change and urbanization.

Fieldwork skills play a crucial role in KS3 Geography, helping students connect theoretical knowledge to real-world experiences. Through data collection, observation, and analysis, students learn to investigate key questions and draw conclusions from evidence. Geographical enquiry further enhances their learning by encouraging them to form hypotheses and explore complex global issues. These skills build on the foundations laid in KS2, where students develop basic geographical vocabulary, simple map-reading skills, and an awareness of physical and human processes. In KS3, these skills are refined and applied to more intricate geographical challenges, ensuring students are well-prepared for KS4.

At KS4, students advance their geographical skills further, developing evaluative thinking, complex data analysis, and decision-making based on case studies. Independent fieldwork becomes a key focus, where students analyze patterns, synthesis data, and form reasoned conclusions. Geospatial skills, such as GIS mapping, become more advanced, preparing them for higher-level research. These skills bridge into KS5, where students engage in independent investigations, critical debates, and advanced statistical analysis, equipping them for university-level study and careers in environmental science, urban planning, and policy-making.

5 year learning journey

Geog

Specification

https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-gcses/geography-a-2016.html

Careers

Geographers are multi-talented people. We consider how the past influenced the present and how we might shape the future. We are literate and numerate. We have good oracy skills. We are always fair as we present both sides of the argument before reaching our decision. We empathise (consider the views and opinions of others). We are skilled at presenting data in maps, graphs and charts. We have good ICT skills which we use to research and present data.