Leaving Certificate Geography
Geography is the study of people, their environment, and the interaction between the two. The course follows from Junior Cert Geography, and covers very similar topics (such as rocks, soils, oceans, population movements, map-reading, and economic activities) in a lot more detail. There are a large number of optional sections on the course, allowing students to focus on the sections of the course which they like.
What kind of student might Geography suit?
- Students considering further study in areas such as geography, economics, environmental science, or politics.
- Students who achieved solid results for Junior Cert Geography.
Course Content
The syllabus is divided into 4 main units. All students study the Core Units 1-3 and Elective Unit 4:
Core Unit 1 – Patterns and processes in the physical environment
This unit examines the relationship between the tectonic cycle, the rock cycle and the processes of landform development.
Core Unit 2 – Regional geography
This unit examines how economic, human and physical processes interact in regional settings.
Core Unit 3 – Geographical investigation and skills
This unit encourages the development of skills in handling spatial information leading to the completion of an individual geographical investigation.
Elective Unit 4 – Patterns and processes in the economic environment
This unit examines patterns in economic development and the growth of a single interdependent global economy.
Higher Level
Students taking the Higher Level also study Optional Unit 6 Global Interdependence. This unit examines the interdependent nature of global economic, social and political processes and challenges the differing views of development
Geographical skills
The teaching and application of skills is integrated into each of the units where appropriate
– Map and aerial photograph interpretation
– Satellite imagery
– Figure interpretation
– Census of population data
– Weather maps and data.
Career Links
Career links include surveying, architecture, mineral development, meteorology, agriculture, civil service work, the E.U., fishing, forestry, urban planning and teaching. Some colleges accept Geography as a science subject for matriculation requirements.
For more detailed information on the Leaving Certificate Geography syllabus click the link below.