Units

We've summarised the course details and the assessment objectives for GCSE Geography B.

Unit title and description	Assessment incl. duration	Weighting
Unit B561: Sustainable Decision Making Decision-making exercise – opportunity for candidates to proceed through three stages of investigating issues related to sustainable development One of the four key themes will be assessed in this unit – and will be supported by the pre-release materials Candidates will develop real-life skills relevant to future decision making.	Written examination 1 hour Themes will rotate each year – information about themes can be found in the specification	25% full course 50% short course
Unit B562: Geographical Enquiry Consists of two tasks: one is a fieldwork investigation of a hypothesis/question, and the other is an issues investigation linked to one of nine topics underpinning the specification content (topics include disease, trade, ecosystems, sport, fashion and crime) Candidates' work can be submitted electronically.	Controlled assessment Externally moderated Two pieces: Fieldwork focus 15% (1,200-1,500 words) Issues investigation 10% (600-800 words). Tasks will rotate each year	25% full course 50% short course
Unit B563: Key Geographical Themes Three out of the four key themes will be assessed in this unit (excludes the theme covered in Unit B561) Learners will be able to demonstrate their ability to apply their knowledge and understanding in familiar and unfamiliar contexts	Written examination 1 hour 30 minutes Themes will rotate each year – as set out in the specification	50%

Short Course

We also offer a Short Course in GCSE Geography B - J385, equivalent to half a GCSE. This offers several advantages:

• There are only two units to complete
• Learners who are interested in a particular subject, but don't have time to study a full course, have more learning options
• Learners can study a wider range of subjects
• Timetabling for shorter courses can be easier for your centre
• More able students can complement their studies by taking additional short courses
• Short courses can be spread over one or two years.

Assessment objectives

The assessment objectives are designed to reflect the non-statutory guidelines for Geography B.

Candidates are expected to demonstrate the following in the context of the content described:

AO1

Recall, select and communicate their knowledge and understanding of concepts, issues and terminology.

AO2

Apply skills, knowledge and understanding in a variety of contexts.

AO3

Analyse and evaluate evidence, make reasoned judgements and present appropriate conclusions.