Year 10
Exploring the Foundations of Geography
In Year 10, students embark on an enriching exploration of key geographical themes, beginning with Paper 1: Physical Geography. During the autumn term, they study The Challenge of Natural Hazards, developing an understanding of tectonic activity, weather patterns, and climate change. Alongside this, students explore the dynamics of urban growth as part of Paper 2: Human Geography, focusing initially on global perspectives through a case study of Mumbai.
The spring term continues with urban studies, this time shifting to a UK focus through a detailed investigation of urban change in Birmingham. Students also begin to develop their fieldwork skills, conducting investigations linked to their urban studies. Additionally, they revisit Paper 1 to examine Physical Landscapes in the UK, concentrating on coastal processes and landforms.
By the summer term, students deepen their physical geography knowledge by expanding their coastal studies and beginning to explore river landscapes. They also return to Paper 2 to address The Changing Economic World, evaluating global development disparities and focusing on Nigeria as an example of a newly-emerging economy. Throughout the year, students are encouraged to apply their learning through enquiry-based activities and geographical skills development, preparing them for the demands of Year 11 and final assessment.
Year 11
Applying Knowledge and Preparing for Success
In Year 11, the emphasis shifts to consolidating knowledge, applying geographical skills, and preparing for final examinations. The autumn term focuses on two major components: The Changing Economic World within Paper 2, examining the evolving UK economy, and The Living World within Paper 1, where students investigate ecosystems, tropical rainforests, and hot deserts. These topics encourage pupils to consider the interdependence between physical environments and human activity.
Students also engage in Paper 3: Geographical Applications by carrying out a physical fieldwork investigation in Carding Mill Valley. This experience enables them to collect, analyse, and evaluate real-world data in a physical setting, enhancing their understanding of geographical processes and boosting their exam readiness.
In the spring term, attention turns to resource management, focusing particularly on the issues surrounding water supply and sustainability. Students continue to prepare for Paper 3 through the Issues Evaluation section, using a pre-release booklet to explore a current geographical problem in depth. This encourages critical thinking and decision-making skills, key components of the final assessment.
As the academic year progresses, pupils revise all three exam papers—Physical Geography, Human Geography, and Geographical Applications—through targeted practice and supported sessions. By the end of Year 11, students are fully prepared to demonstrate their geographical understanding, skills, and application across a wide range of topics in their public examinations.
Contact
The Thomas Adams School
Lowe Hill
Wem
Shropshire
SY4 5UB
Tel: +44 1939 237000