Cambridge International Level 3 Pre-U Certificate in Geography (Principal)
Qualification summary
This syllabus aims to encourage the development of skills required to succeed at university. It provides a solid grounding, in Geography and nurtures the ability of students to undertake independent and self-directed learning and to think laterally, critically and creatively. The assessment takes place at the end of the two-year course to promote coherence and to give schools the chance to structure courses in ways most appropriate to their own students.
The syllabus aims for students to acquire the following aspects of geographical learning:
Knowledge and Understanding
• a knowledge and understanding of the human and physical environments within which people live
• a knowledge and understanding of the relationship between physical and human environments
• an awareness of the hazards presented by the physical environment and the threat that people pose to the physical environment
• an understanding of some of the problems facing the world now and in the future from a geographical standpoint
• an appreciation of the ways in which these problems can be managed
• an appreciation of the role of scale in all aspects of geographical study.
Skills
•an ability to present and interpret geographical information using a variety of techniques involving maps, photographs, graphs, diagrams and the use of GIS
•an ability to interpret OS and other published maps at different scales
•an ability to undertake fieldwork as part of geographical investigation
•an ability to research topics, using appropriate secondary sources, including the internet
•an ability to communicate effectively using appropriate geographical terminology.
Analysis and Evaluation
• an ability to analyse geographical information, questions and issues
• an ability to evaluate information, evidence and arguments to produce reasoned conclusions
•an understanding of how geographical outcomes are influenced by complex links between various physical and human factors and processes.
Qualification details
OG - Other General Qualification
Accreditation start date:
Operational start date in centres:
For information on the approval of qualifications for funding in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, see the links to DCSF, DIUS, DCELLS, DELNI and DENI below.
When undertaking a qualification that does not appear on the governments' lists as eligible for funding for specific age ranges, users must be aware of legal requirements. Not all qualifications are suitable for all age ranges.
For further information on 14-19 qualifications offered in England, please refer to the DCSF
Section 96 website.
For further information on 19+ qualifications offered in England, please refer to the DIUS
Section 97 website.
For further information on Wales, visit the
DCELLS website.
For further information on Northern Ireland, visit the
DELNI and
DENI websites.
Botswana - Canada - Finland - France - Greece - Guernsey - India - Scotland - Spain - Uganda - United States
This syllabus aims to encourage the development of generic skills of independent study and research, and to promote critical thinking and self-directed learning – all of which are intended to provide for successful progression to Higher Education and employment. In addition, the syllabus provides deep learning in terms of knowledge and understanding that will provide a sound basis for progression to higher study in cognate subjects.
No specific job occupation
D1, D2, D3, M1, M2, M3, P1, P2, P3
The qualification is assessed using independent and holistic assessment.
The Cambridge International Pre-U Certificate in Geography is assessed through four compulsory components. The assessments all take place at the end of the two-year course and a single grade is awarded.
Paper 1: Geographical Issues Paper has three parts based on the six topics from the syllabus. Section A and Section B comprise 3 structured questions from which the candidate answers two; Section C comprises 3 general questions involving extended writing and use of material from different topics, candidates choose one question.
Paper 2: Global Environments is in two sections with two questions set on each of the six topics identified in the syllabus. Candidates choose two questions, each from a different section.
Paper 3: Global Themes is in two sections with two questions set on each of the six topics identified in the syllabus. Candidates choose two questions, each from a different section.
Papers 2 and 3 are examined consecutively, with a short break between the two examinations.
Paper 4: Research Topic – in preparation for this paper candidates need to have carried out a research investigation based on one of the three topics prescribed for the examination year. Candidates answer 3 questions on their chosen topic: one structured data response; one question from a choice of two on their individual research investigation; and, one from a choice of two on the wider topic.
Further details about the schemes of assessment and the content of the course can be found in the subject syllabus, available on www.cie.org.uk or direct from CIE.
The Cambridge International Pre-U Certificates in Principal Subjects can act as standalone qualifications but are also intended to form a part of the Cambridge International Pre-U Diploma, along with Global Perspectives and an Independent Research Report. It is expected that this Principal Subject will require a minimum of 380 Guided Learning Hours. This is a notional measure of the substance of the qualification. It includes an estimate of the time that might be allocated to direct teaching or instruction, together with other structured learning time such as directed assignments or supported individual study and practice. It excludes learner-initiated private study.