GCSE Geography

Exam Board & Specification: AQA GCSE Geography

Subject Lead Contact:

Miss M Kasharis

What will students study at Key Stage 4?

Year 10: Physical landscapes in the UK (coasts/rivers) establish process–landform links and management debates, followed by natural hazards (tectonics, weather extremes, climate change). The living world explores ecosystems (TRF and cold environments) with sustainability themes. A physical fieldwork enquiry builds the full investigation cycle from planning to evaluation.

Year 11: Human geography covers urban issues/challenges, the changing economic world (NEE and UK case studies) and resource management with water in depth. A human fieldwork enquiry is completed and synoptic issue evaluation skills are honed using unfamiliar resources and quantitative tasks.

What do assessments test?

• AO1: Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of places, environments, concepts and processes
• AO2: Apply knowledge and understanding to interpret, analyse and evaluate geographical information and issues
• AO3: Use a range of geographical skills and techniques, including fieldwork and quantitative skills

What are the expectations of my child in this subject?

Bring full equipment, participate actively, complete homework on time, and use retrieval practice and past questions regularly. Keep notes organised and act on feedback promptly.

What should my child do if they feel they are struggling in this subject?

Speak to the teacher early, identify specific topics/skills to target, attend clinics/interventions, and use recommended resources (knowledge organisers, revision platforms, model answers).

How can I best support my child in this subject?

Discuss progress, help plan short and frequent study sessions, encourage targeted practice ahead of assessments, and ensure use of department‑recommended resources and past papers.