Geography
Geography is a Senior Authority subject undertaken in Years 11 and 12 that contributes to an Overall Position.
Geography is the study of the earth’s surface as the space in which people live. The patterns and processes of the way features are arranged on the earth’s surface is a prime focus of study. Our Geography course aims to help students understand, explore and develop concerns for the questions, issues and problems which stem from the relationship between people and their environment.
VALUE OF THE SUBJECT
The study of Geography has career possibilities in the following areas:
| Surveying | Town Planning | Meteorology | Cartography |
| Geology | Forestry | Hydrology | Demography |
| Ecology | Secondary Teaching | Environmental Science | Architecture |
PREREQUISITE SUBJECT
Students who have not focused on Geography within the SOSE curriculum level can successfully complete this subject in Years 11 and 12, although a study of Geography is a definite advantage. A sound ability is necessary in written and oral expression, reading, simple mathematical and graphical skills.
TOPICS
The Senior Geography program is now based on a thematic approach. These themes cover a range of studies including physical, social, economic and environmental topics.
One theme per semester will be studied. The themes offered are as follows:
THEME 1: Managing the Natural Environment
Focus Unit 1: Managing natural hazards
Focus Unit 2: Managing catchments
THEME 2: Social Environments
Focus Unit 3: Sustaining Communities
Focus Unit 4: Connecting People and Places
THEME 3: Resources and Environments
Focus Unit 5: Living with Climate Change
Focus Unit 6: Sustaining Biodiversity
THEME 4: People and Development
Focus Unit 7: Feeding the World’s People
Focus Unit 8: Exploring the Geography of Disease
FIELD TRIPS
Students will participate in a minimum of one field trip per semester (where appropriate). A minimum of 20 hours must be spent in the field over the two years (as per syllabus requirements). The cost of field trips is not included in the Text, Equipment & Resource Scheme and students will be advised the cost of the field trip at least one month prior to the date of the excursion.
ASSESSMENT
Student assessment will be made in terms of the four criteria set down in the syllabus. These are as follows:
Criteria 1: |
Knowledge |
Criteria 2: |
Analytical Processes |
Criteria 3: |
Decision making Processes |
Criteria 4: |
Research and Communication Skills |
Assessment items will include a selection from the following:
- field reports
- extended written responses
- stimulus-response essays / reports
- practical exercises
- non-written responses: seminars, oral presentations, dramatizations
- short response tests
A maximum of 4 items per semester is recommended.
Queensland Certificate of Education - 4 points
