The study of Geography aims to stimulate an interest in and a sense of wonder about places. It helps young people make sense of a complex and dynamically changing world. It explains where places are, how places and landscapes are formed, how people and their environment interact and how a diverse range of economies, societies and environments are interconnected. It builds on pupils’ own experiences to investigate places at all scales, from the personal to the global.

 

Read 'Our Geography Teacher's perspective' here...

Geographical enquiry encourages questioning, investigation and critical thinking about issues affecting the world and people’s lives, now and in the future. Fieldwork is an essential element of this. Participating in fieldwork pupils learn to think spatially and use maps, visual images and new technologies, including geographical information systems (GIS), to obtain, present and analyse information. The study of Geography at Queen Mary’s aims to inspire pupils to become global citizens by exploring their own place in the world, their values and their responsibilities to other people, to the environment and to the sustainability of the planet.
At Key Stage 3, pupils study units which aim to develop an understanding of place, space, scale, interdependence, physical and human processes, sustainable development and to appreciate a cultural understanding and diversity. The Year 7 course is designed to establish an understanding of the subject and develop basic skills. The concept of ‘My Place’ is initially explored and as the year continues we move from the local to the exploration of further afield destinations.  Investigative skills are encouraged throughout the study of Geography at Queen Mary’s and two fieldtrips in Year 7 encourage their development. Units in Years 8 and 9 allow for a more global focus are designed to improve understanding of a range of human and physical environments.

Many girls opt to take Geography at GCSE Level, building on what has already been achieved with more detailed study of selected topics. The AQA A Specification is followed with the topics studied including plate tectonics, coastal environments, population change and the development gap. In the Sixth Form, AS and A level Geography combines both scientific investigation and principles with evaluative synoptic argument. As such it is accessible to a wide variety of students and the skills developed are valuable for a wide range of careers.  The AQA specification is followed with topics covered including rivers, health, world cities and weather and climate.

Fieldwork is across the key stages. Examples of our visits include a Year 8 visit to Cadbury World, a Year 9 visit to Dovedale in the Peak District National Park and a Year 12 visit to Snowdonia.  

As a department we encourage girls to challenge themselves frequently by participating in a wide variety of activities both in and out of the classroom.  Girls studying Geography are regularly involved in preparing and giving presentations, role-plays, personal research projects, group work, debates and discussions, which all help to develop a range of skills and knowledge of local, national and global issues.