What will I learn?

Through studying this course, you will develop the following:

  • An appreciation of, and a respect for, alternative approaches, viewpoints and ideas;
  • Global and international awareness in several distinct ways;
  • Skills to examine key global issues, such as poverty, sustainability and climate change;
  • Skills to consider examples and detailed case studies at a variety of scales, from local to regional, national and international.

What is the structure of the course?

Higher Level

Standard Level

Part 1: Geographic themes

Three options studied of:

  • Freshwater
  • Oceans and coastal margins
  • Extreme environments
  • Geophysical hazards
  • Leisure, tourism and sport
  • Food and health
  • Urban environments

Two options studied of:

  • Freshwater
  • Oceans and coastal margins
  • Extreme environments
  • Geophysical hazards
  • Leisure, tourism and sport
  • Food and health
  • Urban environments

Part 2: Global perspectives – Change

  • Population distribution—changing population
  • Global climate—vulnerability and resilience
  • Global resource consumption and security
  • Population distribution—changing population
  • Global climate—vulnerability and resilience
  • Global resource consumption and security

Part 3: Global Perspectives – Global Interactions

Power, places and networks

  • Human development and diversity
  • Global risks and resilience

N/A

Part 4: Fieldwork

Fieldwork, leading to one written report based on a fieldwork question, information collection and analysis with evaluation

Fieldwork, leading to one written report based on a fieldwork question, information collection and analysis with evaluation

How will I be assessed?

Assessment

Higher Level

Standard Level

Coursework

Written report (20%)

Written report (25%)

Final Examination

Paper 1 – 2.5 hours (35%), Paper 2 – 1.25 hours (40%), Paper 3 – 1 hour (20%)

Paper 1 – 1.5 hours (35%), Paper 2 – 1.25 hours (40%)

Frequently Asked Questions

Which CAS opportunities are available?
Literature Club; Sustainability Club; Journalism Club; MOOC Courses; Debating Club.

Which opportunities for further study are available?
The Geography IB prepares you for any university course that requires students to be an articulate, critical thinker who is capable of synthesising and analysing a wide range of information. You will be very well prepared for an undergraduate degree in Geography or allied fields, and it is appropriate to a range of careers, including journalism, education, research, architecture and law. 

  • For more information on careers related to Geography, please click here.
  • For more information about studying Geography at Higher Education, please click here.

Is there anything else I need to know?
Geography is not just about landscapes, cities and communities. It is also about contemporary culture, morality, ethics and your place in the wider world. You should be prepared to read widely in your free time, and also take time visiting museums, geographical sites and researching online.

  • For more information on studying Geography IB, please see here.