16 Models and Theories for A Level Geographers

Underpin A Level physical and human geography with this student guide to the most relevant geographical models and scientific theories, fully cross-referenced for the 2016 specifications for AQA, Edexcel, OCR, Eduqas and WJEC.

An excellent resource to extend classroom [teaching]...

...I really like how the question structure is repetitive - Activities, Quick Fire, Application, Extension...

...Most importantly the resource makes theories accessible to A level readers

K. Rush, Humanities Advisor & Peer Reviewer

Bridge the gap between GCSE and A Level.

Hand out each chapter individually or all together. Perfect extension material to challenge your most able students. Ideal reading and revision exercises; great for homework.

1. Focussed chapters include:

  • Detailed information on the model or theory and thinker
  • Critical perspectives for each model or theory
  • Relevance to the student; how to apply in an exam

2. Activities and Questions:

  • Activities and quick-fire questions for consolidation
  • Application of knowledge question to develop analytical skills
  • Extension questions with example answers for exam preparation

At a time when theory is taking on more importance ... a resource like this is a useful addition to the teachers’ armoury

I. Palôt, Chair of the GA’s Post 16 & Higher Education Phase Committee

16 Models and Theories for A Level Geographers    Including:
  • Demographic Transition Model
  • Boserup’s Theory
  • Malthusian Theory
  • Continental Drift
  • Plate Tectonics
  • Park Response Model
  • And many more…

What do teachers say about this resource? (8038)

Great resource. Has helped students to understand models and theories and some of them have used these in their Geography NEAs. It has helped bridge the gap with this aspect of Geography and the NEA and has built on the work that the Bridging the Gap resource starts when we set induction work. The resources are clear and accessible and unpack sometimes difficult &/abstract concepts. It is clear, concise, not too wordy, written in clear and accessible language. This will save you time supporting students with their core topics and also their NEAs and when they are trying to learn key theories. The quick fire, application and extension questions work well, providing stretch and challenge.

J Powell, HoD & Independant Reviewer

The resource is an excellent idea and could prove to be a very useful reference point for students. The questions could be used as either consolidation or as revision exercises. I like the fact that key underpinning theories have been bought together in one place. These tend to be areas that students worry about remembering in the exams so providing this could support them here... I really like the way the information has been structured. Looking at who is behind theories and the development, processes, criticisms. I also really like how the question structure is repetitive - Activities, Quick Fire, Application, Extension. This creates a sense of rhythm in the way you can use the booklet and means students know what to expect with each new theory. It is an excellent resource that can be used to extend that which is done in the classroom. Teachers have the option of providing the whole booklet with the answers or giving students one theory at a time, with or without answers. The resources could also be used in class or could be used to enable flipped learning in the classroom. Most importantly the resource makes the theories accessible to A level readers.

K. Rush, Humanities Advisor & Peer Reviewer

An original publication which offers something different. I particularly like the level of depth that the resource goes into in regards to the models. [They] are well explained and the key points are broken down. In addition to this, there are criticisms offered for the models where appropriate.

G. Dhaliwal, Teacher & Peer Reviewer

I liked that the information on each of the theories is concise. The quick fire questions are good for knowledge recall and the extension gives opportunities to stretch and challenge. It's also great that there are answers to enable students to check they have it correct... I think it really helps students to understand why the theories were created and how the can be applied to real world examples.

K. Williams, Teacher & Peer Reviewer

This resource is a thorough and useful guide to many of the common models found in most specifications. It is clearly written with a sound structure and detailed explanations for the models it addresses. It has good exemplar material which aids understanding and a comprehensive question and answer section on each model which will aid self-assessment. It will be a useful tool in the arsenal of both students and teachers’ subject kits. The tight structure of this resource with clear layout made it easy to follow. Students will appreciate the “Why is this model relevant to us?” section, as well as the comprehensive criticism section and worked question and answer parts of each model. This was particularly welcome. There was sound coverage of most of the common models found in the specifications at A and AS level. The language level was appropriate to specifications and explained common terminology and exemplars. The resource will encourage students to dig deep into some of the more theoretical and abstract parts of the subject. Clear explanations and well-structured answers also apply the models in a manner that is user-friendly and expansive. Models abide in most parts of the subject and are frequently referenced in examination material in all specifications. This resource encourages students to look beyond the obvious and explore links within the subject to other topics. It is good to see that these links are expressly referenced in the individual sections. The use of examples and the Q&A sections enable students to test their understanding and gain confidence in the material. The resource is nicely presented and laid out, as well as bulleted points in each section there are frequent diagrams, illustrations and graphs. This adds clarity and makes the content and activities more attractive to students. My only concern here might be how well some of the colour diagrams might photocopy in black and white. The use of subheadings for each section makes the format attractive and easy to follow. The inclusion of a matrix in the introduction detailing which models are relevant to which of the specifications in each board, is very useful.

M. Thum, Head of Geog & Peer Reviewer

At a time when theory is taking on more importance in the A level course, and when text books seem to be even more expensive, a resource like this is a useful addition to the teachers’ armoury.

I. Palôt, Chair of the GA’s Post 16 & Higher Education Phase Committee