GCSE Geography

Studying geography inspires in learners a sense of awe and wonder about the world we live in and motivates them to create a sustainable future for all. Engaging with issues affecting landscapes locally, nationally and globally enables them to apply their knowledge and skills to major challenges facing humanity.

GCSE Geography will allow learners to explore key geographical concepts, and the inter-relationship and interdependence between diverse and dynamic physical and human landscapes. Understanding connections between the wider world and Wales, will foster a sense of cynefin, which the Curriculum for Wales defines as the “historic, cultural and social place which has shaped and continues to shape the community which inhabits it.”

This qualification will give learners the confidence and skills to think like a geographer and to become active, curious and informed global citizens, with an ambition to learn and make a difference.

What will learners be assessed on?

Learners will be assessed on their:

  • Knowledge and understanding of geographical research, enquiry and investigations.

  • Ability to choose, adapt and apply skills and techniques to investigate and communicate findings.

  • Knowledge and understanding of:

  • processes, landscapes, environments and human actions   

  • places, people, and events 

  • human societies, actions and beliefs.

  • Skills of critical thinking and reflection, evaluation of evidence and perceptions, problem solving, decision making and substantiated judgements

The specification will provide natural and authentic opportunities to explore Human Rights and diversity, including Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic history, identity, culture, and contributions, through the lens of Geography.

How will learners be assessed?

Exam (50%):

  • These will assess a learner’s ability to apply their knowledge and understanding of geographical concepts through their chosen context.  

  • These exams could include digital, on screen assessment.

Non-exam assessment (50%):

  • There will be two non-exam assessments:

  • A Geographical enquiry (30%)

  • And an assignment (20%).

  • These will be assessed through tasks that are set by the awarding body.

  • These may be marked by teachers or the awarding body. Tasks that are marked by teachers they will be moderated by the awarding body.  

For more details on the purpose and aims, content and assessment arrangements of this qualification, please read the full design proposal.

We also have a Youth Friendly version for you to access.

Studying geography inspires in learners a sense of awe and wonder about the world we live in and motivates them to create a sustainable future for all. Engaging with issues affecting landscapes locally, nationally and globally enables them to apply their knowledge and skills to major challenges facing humanity.

GCSE Geography will allow learners to explore key geographical concepts, and the inter-relationship and interdependence between diverse and dynamic physical and human landscapes. Understanding connections between the wider world and Wales, will foster a sense of cynefin, which the Curriculum for Wales defines as the “historic, cultural and social place which has shaped and continues to shape the community which inhabits it.”

This qualification will give learners the confidence and skills to think like a geographer and to become active, curious and informed global citizens, with an ambition to learn and make a difference.

What will learners be assessed on?

Learners will be assessed on their:

  • Knowledge and understanding of geographical research, enquiry and investigations.

  • Ability to choose, adapt and apply skills and techniques to investigate and communicate findings.

  • Knowledge and understanding of:

  • processes, landscapes, environments and human actions   

  • places, people, and events 

  • human societies, actions and beliefs.

  • Skills of critical thinking and reflection, evaluation of evidence and perceptions, problem solving, decision making and substantiated judgements

The specification will provide natural and authentic opportunities to explore Human Rights and diversity, including Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic history, identity, culture, and contributions, through the lens of Geography.

How will learners be assessed?

Exam (50%):

  • These will assess a learner’s ability to apply their knowledge and understanding of geographical concepts through their chosen context.  

  • These exams could include digital, on screen assessment.

Non-exam assessment (50%):

  • There will be two non-exam assessments:

  • A Geographical enquiry (30%)

  • And an assignment (20%).

  • These will be assessed through tasks that are set by the awarding body.

  • These may be marked by teachers or the awarding body. Tasks that are marked by teachers they will be moderated by the awarding body.  

For more details on the purpose and aims, content and assessment arrangements of this qualification, please read the full design proposal.

We also have a Youth Friendly version for you to access.

Page last updated: 14 Dec 2023, 02:02 PM