Geography

“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.” (Former US President Barack Obama, 2012)

Welcome to the fascinating world of Geography at Harris Academy Falconwood, where we embark on an exciting journey of exploration, understanding, and application. At HAF we want students to love geography, think geographically and become global citizens.

Geography holds a pivotal role in our whole school curriculum, recognised not only for its intrinsic value in understanding the world around us but also for the invaluable transferable skills it instils in our students.

KS3 Geography

Our approach to teaching Geography at Key Stage 3 (KS3) is guided by a spiral curriculum, allowing students to revisit and deepen their understanding of key concepts and skills over the three-year period. This methodology ensures a comprehensive and connected learning experience, promoting a holistic grasp of geographical knowledge. At the heart of our curriculum are the 5 key ideas that thread seamlessly throughout: climate, development, geomorphology, human and physical interactions, and sustainability. These concepts form the backbone of our teaching, providing students with a well-rounded perspective on the dynamic interplay between the natural environment and human societies.

Furthermore, we emphasise the development of crucial skills in graphical, mathematical, statistical, and cartographical realms. Students are encouraged to interpret and create various maps, analyse geographical data, and apply mathematical concepts to enhance their understanding of spatial relationships. Fieldwork is a key component of our geography program, with students engaging in hands-on experiences once per year. This allows them to connect theoretical knowledge taught in class with real-world observations, fostering a deeper appreciation for the practical applications of geography. In year 7 and 8 this is undertaken onsite, while in year 9 students complete their fieldwork offsite, through a coastal study in Whitstable, Kent.

KS4 Geography

Students who decide to continue with Geography at Key Stage 4 (KS4) will follow the OCR B GCSE specification, fostering a deeper and more specialised understanding of geographical concepts, that were created as a foundation at KS3. The curriculum is carefully designed to prepare students for the rigors of the examination while nurturing a profound appreciation for the dynamic interactions between physical and human environments. Throughout the KS4 journey, we integrate key themes from the OCR B specification, such as natural hazards, climate change, and global development, ensuring a comprehensive and interconnected understanding of geographical issues. Our goal is not only to prepare students for their examinations but also to instil in them a lifelong curiosity and appreciation for the complexities of the world around them.

A notable aspect of our KS4 Geography program is the two fieldwork trips students attend during the course. Our students engage in a physical fieldwork investigation along the iconic River Thames, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge to a real-world context. This hands-on approach

enables them to develop practical skills, such as data collection and analysis, while deepening their understanding of physical geography. In addition, their human geography fieldtrip focuses on urban areas. Students undertake a human fieldwork investigation, exploring the intricate process of gentrification. This study equips them with valuable insights into the socio-economic dynamics shaping urban landscapes, reinforcing their ability to critically assess and analyse human interactions within a geographical context.

KS5 Geography

At Key Stage 5 (KS5), our Geography program follows the AQA A Level specification, offering students an enriching and in-depth exploration of the subject. The curriculum is designed to foster advanced analytical skills and a nuanced understanding of both physical and human geography. Students will be guided through 6 topics, split across 2 papers, for the human geography paper we teach the following topics: changing places, global systems and governance, and population and the environment. While for the physical geography paper we teach: water and carbon cycles, coastal systems and landscapes and ecosystems under stress. Through rigorous academic study and critical analysis, students develop a sophisticated understanding of complex geographical issues and their interconnectedness on a global scale.

The integration of a four-day residential fieldwork trip to Dorset, serves as a cornerstone to supporting students in completing their Non-Examined Assessment (NEA). This immersive experience allows students to engage with geographical concepts in a real-world context, applying theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios. The Dorset fieldwork trip provides an opportunity for hands-on data collection and analysis, enhancing students' research skills and enriching their understanding of geographical processes. The skills developed through the NEA process develop independent learning skills needed for students to take with them onto university or into the workplace.

Overall, throughout your child’s geography journey at Harris Academy Falconwood, we not only impart knowledge but also equip students with the analytical and critical thinking skills essential for navigating an increasingly interconnected world. Join us on this exciting journey as we delve into the rich tapestry of geography and discover the profound impact it has on shaping our understanding of the diverse and dynamic planet, we call home.

Please view Curriculum Maps below:

KS3 + KS4 Curriculum Map

KS5 Curriculum Map