The Advanced Higher qualification in Geography gives an in-depth understanding of complex ideas about how the world works and also gives the opportunity to carry out research, with an emphasis on fieldwork.

The study of Geography at Advanced Higher level also gives the opportunity to develop a high level of skill in independent study, co-operative learning, objective thinking and the ability to communicate clearly and confidently. Pupils will gain expertise in the use of a range of maps, diagrams, fieldwork techniques, report writing and IT.

Course Content

Unit 1: Geographical Skills

In this Unit, learners will develop a range of geographical methods and techniques including mapping skills, graphical techniques and a range of statistical techniques for analysing and interpreting geographical data. Learners will develop a range of investigating skills through class activities, fieldwork and personal research and will learn how to research and present their findings in a Geographical Study. Learners will have the opportunity to select their own area of research for their Geographical Study e.g. ‘The Socio-economic changes in Leith following regeneration’ or ‘Is there a relationship between the physical environment and land use in the Pentland Hills?’.

Unit 2: Geographical Issues

In this Unit, learners will develop critical thinking and the ability to evaluate sources and viewpoints on current geographical issues. This unit will involve the

production of the Geographical Issue essay as part of the Folio.  Pupils will have the opportunity to select their own topic for research.  Example titles include:

‘The Effect of Pesticide use on Bees’

‘Biofuels and Food Security’

‘New York Bike Lane Controversy’

Exam

The exam will include sections which examine the following geographical skills and techniques:

Fieldwork/research techniques: the learner will be expected to use fieldwork/research gathering techniques and analyse the data which might be obtained as a result of using those techniques.

Geographical data handling: learners will be expected to process, interpret and analyse data, including statistical data in order to explain geographical relationships.

Map interpretation: learners will be expected to demonstrate geographical methods and techniques using a range of maps and supplementary information which will include 1:25000 scale Ordnance Survey (OS) maps. In addition to the OS map, supplementary information will include one or more of the following: maps, photographs, sketches or outline drawings or drawings based on photographs, statistics, and data about the

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.

To gain the award for Advanced Higher Geography Course, you must sit a final SQA exam and send in your Geography Project for the exam board to mark. You must also pass all the internal assessment for each of the three units.

The Advanced Higher course assessment will consist of an exam paper which will account for 30% of your final grade and the Folio of work which consists of the Geography Study and Issues Essay will contribute towards 70% of your final grade. The course assessment is graded A-D.

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.