Head of Department: Mr G. Chimbetete.

Members of staff: Mr C. Chadya, Mr C. Mukwairo, Mrs V. Makiyi, Mr H. Sakarombe.

Introduction

To study geography, particularly from an A-level point of view, a good command of the English language is a definite aid. Pupils should be prepared to undertake a great deal of extra work throughout the course, not just towards the end. A file of fieldwork, lesson notes and individual research notes must be maintained.

Departmental Aims

Geography occupies a pivotal position in the understanding and interpretation of social, economic, political and environmental conditions. We, as a department, aim to produce scholars who can be self-reliant and productive with a clear understanding of the socio-economic problems facing as part of the global village, and are dynamic and holistic in their understanding that interactions are taking place in the environment in which they live as well as the world at large, and realise how people impress their ways, habits and economic demands upon the environment and to develop a sense of awareness and responsibility towards the management of their environments.

Entry Requirements & recommendations for  Entrance into AS level Geography

Pupils must have at least a B grade in IGCSE geography and at least a C grade in IGCSE English language and maths . Recommended subjects at  IGCSE ton accompany Geography are history and science related subjects.

Course Content –

Forms 1 & 2 Syllabus: 

The aims of the syllabus are to introduce students to the main components of Physical and Human Geography and the inter- relationships between them, and develop skills in interpreting topographical maps (map-work).

Forms 3 & 4 (IGCSE Level) Syllabus: 

The aims of this syllabus are to encourage students to develop a sense of place and an understanding of relative location on a local, regional and global scale, an awareness and understanding of the characteristics and distribution of physical and human environments, and an ability to select and use suitable basic techniques for observing, collecting, classifying, presenting, analysing and interpreting data through the use of maps, audiovisual materials, documentary materials and statistics.

Sixth Form Level (AS & A2 Level): 

The syllabus aims are to develop an awareness of the relevance of geographical analysis to understanding and solving contemporary human and environmental problems, demonstrate and explain the causes and effects of change over space and time on the natural and human environments, and promote an appreciation of the need for understanding and respect of and co-operation in conserving the environment on both a local and global scale.

Core Geography – topics:

Hydrology & Fluvial Geomorphology, Atmosphere & Weather, Rocks & Weathering, Population Change, Settlement Dynamics.

A2 Paper 1: Core –

Geography: This is taken by pupils who would not have written the AS exam or who would have failed to achieve a satisfactory result. Candidates will revisit all core geography topics on their own.

A2 Paper 2: 

Advanced Level Physical Geography Options: Pupils must study at least two topics: Tropical environments, Coastal environments, Hazardous environments, Arid and semi-arid environments.

A2 paper 3: 

Advanced Level Human Geography Options: Pupils must study at least two topics: Production, location and change, Environmental management, Global interdependence, Economic transition.

Duration of Examinations AS candidates:

• Paper 1 – 3 hours / AS candidates:
• Paper 2 – 1 ½ hours /
• Paper 3 – 1 ½ hours

There are field excursions based on topics chosen. Practicals include handling of data and analysis and interpretation of topographical maps and photographs, and implementation of geographical information systems.

Combinations Geography combines well with almost all subjects:

Career prospects Career prospects exist in the following areas; accounting, business studies, administration, ecology, natural environment, assessment management and conservation, map surveying, quantity and quality surveying, cartography, geology, agriculture, forestry, hydrology, meteorology, urban and rural planning, politics, tourism and leisure industries, market research, civil engineering, terrain analysis, remote sensing, field data collection, journalism, development projects, demography, law, information technology, social work.