GCSE Geography Specification (8035)

Introduction

• Teaching from September 2016
• GCSE exams from 2018 onwards
• Version 1.1 (12 September 2023)

1.1 Why choose AQA for GCSE Geography

• Balanced framework of physical and human themes
• Investigates links between physical and human geography
• Case studies include the UK, HICs, NEEs, and LICs
• Topics: climate change, poverty, global economic shifts, sustainable resource use
• Encourages understanding of societal roles

1.2 Support and resources

• Resources developed with experienced teachers
• Includes approved textbooks, specimen papers, schemes of work, and fieldwork toolkit
• Exam preparation: past papers, mark schemes, Exampro
• Professional development opportunities for teachers
• Enhanced Results Analysis (ERA) tool available

Specification at a Glance

• Linear qualification: Exams at end of course
• Covers physical environment, human environment, geographical applications, and skills

2.1 Subject Content

Living with the Physical Environment

• Natural hazards, living world, UK landscapes

Challenges in the Human Environment

• Urban issues, economic changes, resource management

Geographical Applications

• Issue evaluation, fieldwork

Geographical Skills

2.2 Assessments

• Three papers covering content areas
  • Paper 1: Physical environment
  • Paper 2: Human environment
  • Paper 3: Geographical applications
• Combination of multiple-choice, short answer, and extended prose questions

Subject Content Details

3.1 Living with the Physical Environment

• Natural Hazards: Tectonic and weather hazards
• Living World: Ecosystems, tropical rainforests, hot/cold deserts
• UK Landscapes: Coastal, river, and glacial landscapes

3.2 Challenges in the Human Environment

• Urban Issues: Urbanization, megacities, UK city study
• Economic World: Economic development, UK economic changes
• Resource Management: Food, water, energy

3.3 Geographical Applications

• Issue Evaluation: Critical thinking, problem-solving
• Fieldwork: Two geographical enquiries, primary data collection

3.4 Geographical Skills

• Cartographic, graphical, numerical, and statistical skills
• Use of maps, graphs, data analysis

Scheme of Assessment

4.1 Aims and Learning Outcomes

• Knowledge of locations, environments, processes
• Understanding interactions between people and environments

4.2 Assessment Objectives

• AO1: Knowledge of locations and processes
• AO2: Understanding geographical concepts
• AO3: Application of knowledge in analysis and evaluation
• AO4: Skills in investigation and communication

General Administration

5.1 Entries and Codes

• One entry covers all question papers and certification

5.3 Awarding Grades

• Graded on a nine-point scale (1-9)
• Resits allowed within qualification shelf life

5.6 Access to Assessment

• Diversity and inclusion considerations
• Special arrangements for students with disabilities

5.8 Private Candidates

• Specifications available to private candidates
• Fieldwork requirement applies

Additional Information

• For resources, results analysis, and further support, visit AQA website
• Contact AQA Geography subject team for assistance