Geography

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

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 

 

Specification

Edexcel Geography Specification- Link

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.

• Teacher
• Market Researcher
• Travel Journalist
• Environmental Consultant
• Social Researcher
• Town Planner
• Data Analyst
• Business Analyst
• Conservationist

Extra curricular opportunities

• Urban fieldwork in Croydon
• Rivers fieldwork
• London Landmarks
• Trip Kew Gardens
• Trip Visit to the Natural History Muesum
• Gardening Club

Websites to support learning 

BBC Bitesize Edexcel A Geography: https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/examspecs/zsytxsg

Website	How it supports students
BBC Bitesize https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/examspecs/zsytxsg	Clear revision notes on the key concepts of Geography, quick quizzes and videos
Pearson Edexcel	The official examination-board website, providing the specification, sample assessments, past papers and mark schemes.
Internet Geography – Edexcel A	Clear revision notes and quizzes organised around Edexcel A topics, including landscapes, weather hazards, ecosystems and changing cities.
Physics & Maths Tutor – Geography	Topic notes, glossaries, flashcards, case studies and past-paper materials specifically organised for Edexcel Geography A.
Seneca Learning	Interactive, bite-sized revision activities with frequent quizzes. Particularly useful for recalling key knowledge and terminology.
Save My Exams – Edexcel Geography	Revision notes, exam questions, flashcards and past papers. Students must select Geography A, as the website also covers Geography B. Some content requires a subscription.
SnapRevise Geography	Videos, flashcards and topic summaries covering Edexcel A. Useful for students who learn best through visual explanations.
Cool Geography	Accessible explanations, case studies, diagrams and revision activities. Students should check that each resource matches their Edexcel A topic.
Quizlet	Useful for practising key terms, processes and case-study facts through flashcards. Teacher-approved sets are preferable because many resources are user-generated.