IB Geography gives a world outlook on current issues and trends from Globalisation to Hazards to Climate Change. Whilst applicants must be capable of undertaking the whole programme, the Geography element is straightforward and is comparable in standard to the A-level; grades are outstanding each year.

Candidates can opt to take the subject at Standard level or Higher level. The difference between the two levels is the time spent on the subject and the amount of work undertaken. The higher level option does have an extension paper designed to stretch your abilities. It is a requirement to have studied Geography at GCSE and obtained a Grade 6 or higher for Higher level study as the content builds from GCSE level material and skills. Candidates who are successful are highly organised, motivated and take accountability for their own learning.

Pupils who study Geography will be offered the following field trips:

• Year 12 compulsory residential fieldwork trip to Juniper Hall, a field studies centre in the North Downs area of outstanding natural beauty. This will include group data collection on the River Tillingbourne in preparation for the IA coursework.
• Geography conference in Year 13 – Tectonic Hazards. The conference is held in London and offers an opportunity to hear top experts deliver engaging and inspirational sessions.

Structure of the course

Part 1: Core theme

1. Changing population
2. Global Climate – vulnerability and resilience
3. Global resource consumption and security

Part 2: Optional themes

1. Freshwater – issues and conflicts
2. Geophysical hazards
3. Urban environments

Part 3: Higher level extension paper

1. Power, Places and networks
2. Human development and diversity
3. Global risk and resilience

IA Coursework:

• One fieldwork report of 2,500 words