The science tradition in physical geography: 2016 A level specifications and ‘powerful geography’

Abstract

In this article an overview is made of the subject content of A level 2016 specifications of physical geography by contextualising physical geography and by examining the concept of ‘powerful geographical knowledge’. A review of several current (2016) examination board A level specifications of physical geography is presented; all have optional components, especially for ‘landforms’. These ‘options’ restrict coverage in certain topics compared with what has traditionally been thought of as physical geography. The option structure is reflected in the content of two current texts examined with respect to physical geography and geomorphology in Monkhouse’s textbook of the 1970–80s. In the exam boards’ 2016 specifications of physical geography, treatment of ‘systems’, especially climate/meteorology and oceanic systems, is incomplete. Climate change is poorly discussed in terms of physical principles as are flooding and changes in frequency of events. As the article demonstrates, although physical geography can be presented as a ‘science’ subject, the errors and misinformation in some current textbooks supporting exam boards’ specifications needs to be addressed. The article suggests that physical geography needs a separate and more scientifically- based A level, perhaps based on ‘Critical Zone’ science.