Geography: Advanced Higher

Entry Requirements:

• A or B at Higher Geography (ideally National 5 or S3 Geography too)
• Good literacy skills and numeracy skills are essential (part of the course includes using statistics).

Course Content:

The aim of Advanced Higher Geography is to help learners become independent geographers. It will prepare them well for any Earth Sciences university or college course and will also support pupils who are considering going into a science course.

Pupils will learn about how to interpret Ordnance Survey maps, carry out geographical research (fieldwork techniques), and how to process and analyse this data in detail, including statistical analysis. These skills and knowledge will be assessed in the Advanced Higher Geography exam and will be used to write the geographical study. This is a 3000 word, independent research project that pupils complete.

Pupils will also study a range of real world geographical issues. They will then complete an 1800 word geographical issues essay where they analyse the different viewpoints around a current geographical issue.

Assessment:

• Internal: Regular assessments and homework based on exam style questions and skills required for the geographical study and issues essay.

• External:

SQA Examination: 

Exam Paper – 50 marks, 33% of total grade – 2 hours and 30 minutes   

Geographical study – 60 marks, 40% of total grade

Geographical issues essay – 40 marks, 27% of total grade

Progression Pathway:

• University – any Earth Sciences course e.g. Geography, Geology, Meteorology, Oceanography, Geophysics.  
• For more information about a wide range of higher education and career options, see Ms. Day.