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International GCSE in Geography

Pearson Edexcel – Qualification Code: 4GE1

Why Study This Course?

The Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Geography enables students to explore the complexities of natural and human environments, global challenges, and sustainability issues. This course fosters critical thinking, data analysis, and fieldwork skills, providing students with a broad understanding of the world and its geographical processes.

This course is ideal for students who:

  • Are interested in how physical and human factors shape the environment.
  • Enjoy investigating and analysing geographical data and case studies.
  • Wish to develop research and fieldwork skills relevant to both academic study and real-world applications.
  • Are considering A-Level Geography or careers in environmental science, urban planning, or international development.
  • Want to gain a globally recognised qualification that enhances university and career prospects.

Who is This Course For?

This course is suitable for students who:

  • Enjoy studying how landscapes, weather, and human activity interact.
  • Are interested in current global challenges such as climate change, migration, and resource management.
  • Wish to develop investigative and problem-solving skills.
  • Are considering future studies in Geography, Earth Sciences, Environmental Studies, or Geology.

This course helps students develop critical thinking, data interpretation, and problem-solving skills, which are essential for higher education and professional careers.

1. Fieldwork and Practical Research

  • Conducting geographical investigations.
  • Collecting and analysing primary and secondary data.
  • Evaluating the accuracy and reliability of geographical research.

2. Data Analysis and Interpretation

  • Understanding and interpreting maps, graphs, and statistical data.
  • Using GIS (Geographic Information Systems) to analyse spatial patterns.
  • Drawing conclusions from geographical fieldwork and case studies.

3. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving

  • Evaluating geographical issues such as climate change and urbanisation.
  • Proposing sustainable solutions to environmental and social problems.
  • Understanding different perspectives on global challenges.
The course assesses students based on the following objectives:
Objective Description Weighting
AO1 Demonstrate knowledge of locations, places, processes, and environments 15%-16%
AO2 Understand and apply geographical concepts to explain interactions and processes 25%-26%
AO3 Analyse and evaluate geographical data, issues, and evidence 34%-35%
AO4 Use a variety of geographical skills to investigate and communicate findings 24%-25%

Strong Preparation for A-Level and Beyond

This course provides a solid foundation for A-Level Geography, preparing students for higher education in Earth Sciences, Environmental Studies, Urban Planning, and International Development.

Recognition by Top Universities

The Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Geography is widely recognised by universities, employers, and academic institutions worldwide.

Development of Research and Analytical Skills

Students develop investigative and analytical skills that are highly valuable in geography-related careers, environmental consultancy, and global policy-making.

Engaging and Real-World Content

The course includes case studies and real-world examples, ensuring students engage with current global challenges such as deforestation, migration, and climate change.

Course Structure

The qualification consists of two externally assessed written papers:

Each paper consists of a mix of multiple-choice, short-answer, data-response, and extended-response questions.

Paper 1: Physical Geography (40%)

Exam Duration

1 hour 10 minutes

Assessment Format

External examination

Skills Assessed

  • Understanding physical processes and landforms.
  • Analysing the impact of natural hazards.
  • Conducting fieldwork and research on physical geography topics.

Topics Covered

  • River Environments – The water cycle, river landforms, and case studies of river management.
  • Coastal Environments – The impact of wave action, coastal management strategies, and sustainability.
  • Hazardous Environments – Earthquakes, volcanoes, tropical storms, and risk management strategies.

Fieldwork Component: Students complete a geographical investigation related to one of the above topics.

Paper 2: Human Geography (60%)

Exam Duration

1 hour 45 minutes

Assessment Format

External examination

Skills Assessed

  • Understanding human interactions with the environment.
  • Evaluating the impacts of economic development, urbanisation, and migration.
  • Applying fieldwork techniques to investigate human geography.

Assessment Overview

  • Economic Activity and Energy – Global industry sectors, energy resources, and sustainable energy use.
  • Rural and Urban Environments – Changes in rural and urban landscapes, development patterns, and urban sustainability.
  • Global Issues:
  • Fragile Environments and Climate Change – Causes and consequences of environmental degradation.
  • Globalisation and Migration – Trade, migration trends, and impacts of globalisation.
  • Development and Human Welfare – Economic inequalities, human welfare indicators, and sustainable development.

Fieldwork Component: Students conduct independent research and data analysis on one of the above topics.

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