NCEA Level 2 Geography
Course Description
Teacher in Charge: Ms D. Lee
Geography is future-focused. It is the science of place and space. As the study of the earth's landscapes, people, places, and environments; geography is unique in bridging the social sciences (human geography) with the natural sciences (physical geography). By understanding the relationship between people and their environment, geographers find real-world solutions to tough problems. Opportunities to apply your learning in authentic contexts outside the classroom through field work and other experiences also exist and can deepen your skills set for further academic learning and future careers. Employers value the ability of Geography graduates to apply their practical skills and process a wide range of information. Gain transferable skills for the future, including analytical report writing, decision-making, problem-solving, teamwork, critical evaluation and digital literacy skills.
The essence of geography is all about a sustainable future, and therefore much of the course outlined below is underpinned by the United Nations sustainable development goals.

Topics may include:
• Going Global - applying a range of geographic skills and concepts in both local and global settings. Contexts include the geography of food; famine, food security, food miles, globesity, future food (bugs for dinner anyone?)
• Landscapes Unlocked - experience a three-day trip to the Mackenzie Basin and Aoraki Mt.Cook. Understand the formation of this dynamic and special environment how we can ensure it has a sustainable future.
• A Killer Amongst Us - find out about the geography of health and disease by studying the global impacts of Covid-19. Do differences in development make an impact? How does geographic research help to inform public health systems and policies?
• Cyclopolis - investigate transport patterns and processes in the local and greater Christchurch urban area. Consider issues/changes such as boy racers, Lime-scooters, Uber, transport infrastructure/congestion/pollution, autonomous driving and sustainable transport options.
• Poisoning Paradise - debate the controversial 1080 pest control issue.
• Geography at the Movies - study film from a geographical perspective.
• ICT Geography - use subject specific geospatial applications such as GIS (Geographic Information Systems), GPS technology, Google Earth Pro, Drone UAV technology, Satellite images and data recording in fieldwork.
"The study of geography is about more than just memorizing places on a map. It's about understanding the complexity of our world, appreciating the diversity of cultures that exists across continents. And in the end, it's about using all that knowledge to help bridge divides and bring people together".
Barack Obama
Contributions and Equipment/Stationery
Stationery plus costs involved in field work. There will be an optional three day practical field study to Aoraki Mt Cook (approximate cost will be $350). Students also require a write-on skills text at a cost of approximately $25.
This course will have an online learning component that would suit Bring Your Own Device - students bringing a netbook or laptop to class.
Recommended Prior Learning
NIL - A strong interest in learning about people and the environment; identifying issues and being solution focused is desirable.
Pathway
Credit Information
Total Credits Available: 19 credits.
Externally Assessed Credits: 8 credits.
Internally Assessed Credits: 11 credits.
External
NZQA Info
NZQA Info
NZQA Info
NZQA Info
NZQA Info
Useful Links
SchoolPoint by Inbox Design SCHOOLPOINT129, Rendered 1.35MB in 0.2264 seconds with 18 queries.
----