GCSE (from 2009)Geography B
- J385
Units
Please find below the units which are available for this qualification.
Unit B561: Sustainable Decision Making
Unit description | Assessment
incl. duration | Weighting |
|---|
- 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
Unit description | Assessment
incl. duration | Weighting |
|---|
- 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
Unit description | Assessment
incl. duration | Weighting |
|---|
- 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 Courses
We also offer a Short Course in GCSE Geography B - J085, 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.
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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.
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