S5/6 Higher Geography
Course Overview
This topical and challenging course is packed with up-to-date, real-life case studies that motivate and absorb pupils, and use Scottish and wider-world examples throughout. Pupils take an investigative approach to geographical issues and topics which encourages them to work independently. In addition, pupils build vital geographical skills through specific activities which also develop literacy, numeracy and ICT skills.
Course Content
There are three units within the course and these are outlined below:
Physical Environment Unit
Pupils will explore the natural events which have shaped the formation of Scottish and UK physical landscapes, the areas studied will include coastal and glaciated landscapes. They will also examine the pressures on our natural environment, and through case studies look at solutions to managing and sustaining our unique environment.No physical study of the UK would be complete without acknowledging the role that our weather and climate play in influencing our lives, so pupils also look at develop a better understanding of why our weather is so unpredictable.
Human Environment Unit
Pupils study, compare and contrast different countries from across the globe. Topics covered are explored through a variety of interesting case studies, designed to help learners build a depth of knowledge about the countries being studied, and to challenge stereotypes. Pupils will investigate rural land use conflicts and their management in a Glaciated Upland (the Cairngorms) as well as rural land degradation in identified countries along the Sahel region.
Global Issues Unit
Pupils will develop a knowledge and understanding of significant global geographical issues. Pupils will explore Development and Health which includes topics such as indicators of development as well as Primary Health Care Strategies and the cause, impact and management of Malaria. Pupils will also explore the human and physical causes of Climate Change as well as its effect and management on a local and Global level.
Higher Assignment
In this unit pupils will choose a geographical issue and write up a research project based on fieldwork. This will give them the opportunity to demonstrate their geographical skills and understanding. The Assignment is written under timed conditions and is externally marked by the SQA.
Methodology
A variety of active learning and teaching strategies will be involved, from teacher led explanation and discussion to individual work; paired work; group work ; fieldwork; researching and presenting information; interpretation and analysis of various geographical sources of information; self and peer evaluation of work produced.
Within the course a variety of teaching and learning approaches are used including, cooperative learning, group work, class discussions, individual written work, presentations, debates, model making and role play. Pupils have the opportunity to develop their communication and ICT skills throughout each unit by getting involved in both group led and individual projects.
Assessment
The Higher course assessment will consist of an exam paper which will account for 70% of your final grade and an Added Value Assignment which will account for 30% of your final grade. The course assessment is graded A-D.
Recording & Reporting
All pupil assessments are routinely graded and recorded by the teacher and the results are stored centrally, these results are used by staff to track the progress of the individuals and ensure that their needs are being met. Pupils also review their own attainment and are encourage to identify ways to improve their learning. Staff report formally to parents as per the school calendar.
Resources
BBC Bitsize Higher Geography:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/education/subjects/zmhs34j.
SQA Higher Geography:
https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/47922.html