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International A Level Geography IAL

Pearson Edexcel – Qualification Codes: WGE01/ WGE02 (IAS), WGE03/ WGE04 (IAL)

Why Study This Course?

The Pearson Edexcel International Advanced Level in Geography is designed to develop an understanding of the physical and human processes shaping our world. This course equips students with the skills to analyse global challenges, such as climate change, resource management, migration, and urbanisation, preparing them for higher education and careers in environmental science, urban planning, geopolitics, and sustainability sectors.

This course is ideal for students who:

  • Have a passion for understanding the natural and human environment.
  • Enjoy investigating global challenges and geographical phenomena.
  • Aspire to study Geography, Environmental Science, International Development, or Urban Planning at university.
  • Are considering careers in climate policy, resource management, sustainability, or disaster risk management.
  • Wish to gain a globally recognised qualification that enhances university and career prospects.

Who is This Course For?

This course is suitable for students who:

  • Want to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills in a global context.
  • Enjoy researching and evaluating geographical issues.
  • Wish to work in urban development, environmental conservation, business sustainability, or geopolitics.
  • Are keen to explore climate systems, ecosystems, human settlements, and economic geography.
This course fosters geospatial analysis, critical evaluation, and data interpretation, essential for higher education and professional careers in geography, environmental science, and urban planning.

1. Data Analysis and Interpretation

  • Evaluating geographical data, statistics, and satellite imagery.
  • Conducting cartographic and GIS analysis.
  • Interpreting climate models, population trends, and resource distribution.

2. Fieldwork and Research Skills

  • Designing geographical investigations.
  • Conducting data collection in natural and urban environments.
  • Evaluating geospatial data and human-environment interactions.

3. Critical Thinking and Policy Evaluation

  • Assessing urban development, climate policies, and sustainability projects.
  • Analysing economic, social, and environmental conflicts.
  • Evaluating mitigation and adaptation strategies for climate change and natural disasters.

The course assesses students based on the following objectives:

Objective Description Weighting
AO1 Demonstrate knowledge of geographical concepts, theories, and case studies 30%
AO2 Apply geographical knowledge to real-world scenarios and problems 30%
AO3 Analyse data, evaluate sources, and synthesise information 20%
AO4 Conduct independent geographical research and fieldwork 20%

Strong Preparation for University and Beyond

This course provides a solid foundation for degree-level study in Geography, Environmental Science, and Urban Planning.

Recognition by Top Universities

The Pearson Edexcel International A-Level in Geography is widely recognised by universities, research institutions, and environmental organisations worldwide.

Development of Practical and Analytical Skills

Students develop geospatial, statistical, and research skills, which are valuable in business, government, and environmental sectors.

Engaging and Real-World Applications

The course covers climate change, migration, sustainability, and geopolitics, ensuring students engage with global challenges and real-world problem-solving.

Course Structure

The qualification consists of four externally assessed units, divided into two levels:

International Advanced Subsidiary (IAS) – Equivalent to AS Level

Unit 1: Global Challenges (IAS – 30%)

Exam Duration

1 hour 45 minutes

Assessment Format

External written examination

Topics Covered (Choose One)

  • World at Risk – Climate change, tectonic hazards, and disaster management.
  • Going Global – Globalisation, urbanisation, migration, and sustainability.

Assessment Overview

  • Section A: Data response and short-answer questions.
  • Section B: Essay questions based on one of the two topics.

Unit 2: Geographical Investigations (IAS – 20%)

Exam Duration

1 hour 30 minutes

Assessment Format

External written examination

Topics Covered (Choose One)

  • Crowded Coasts – Coastal geomorphology, erosion, and sustainable management.
  • Urban Problems, Planning, and Regeneration – Urbanisation, social inequalities, and urban redevelopment.

Assessment Overview

  • Section A: Data response and short-answer questions.
  • Section B: Fieldwork-based questions on research methods.
  • Section C: A choice of one fieldwork investigation question.

International Advanced Level (IAL) – Full A-Level

Unit 3: Contested Planet (IA2 – 30%)

Exam Duration

1 hour 45 minutes

Assessment Format

External written examination

Topics Covered

  • Atmosphere and Weather Systems – Climate variability, meteorological hazards.
  • Biodiversity Under Threat – Conservation, ecosystem management.
  • Energy Security or Water Conflicts – Resource use and geopolitical tensions.
  • Superpower Geographies or Bridging the Development Gap – Global power shifts and inequalities.

Assessment Overview

  • Section A: Synoptic and essay questions.
  • Section B: A choice of one data response/essay question on a selected topic.

Unit 4: Researching Geography (IA2 – 20%)

Exam Duration

1 hour 30 minutes

Assessment Format

External written examination

Topics Covered

  • Tectonic Activity and Hazards.
  • Feeding the World’s People.
  • Cultural Diversity: People and Landscapes.
  • Human Health and Disease.

Assessment Overview

  • Students choose one topic and answer a research-based question.