IE · Subject guide
Geography
Leaving Certificate Geography (NCCA specification), Higher and Ordinary Level, with the SEC examination.
01 · Overview
Geography
Leaving Certificate Geography (NCCA specification), Higher and Ordinary Level, with the SEC examination.
- Subject guide
- Leaving Certificate
- Topics mapped
- 9
02 · Complete topic map
Complete topic map
Every topic recorded for this subject in the curriculum is reproduced below in its full hierarchy. The descriptions reflect the mapped scope without implying additional exam rules.
- 01
Core Unit One – Patterns and Processes in the Physical Environment
Studies the structure of the Earth, plate tectonics, rock formation and the rock cycle, and the surface processes of weathering, mass movement, rivers, the sea and ice that shape landforms.
- 02
Core Unit Two – Regional Geography
Examines how regions are defined and develop, comparing the physical, economic, human and cultural characteristics of Irish, European and continental/subcontinental regions, including the impact of EU and global forces.
- 03
Core Unit Three – Geographical Investigation and Skills
Develops fieldwork, mapping, photographic interpretation, data-collection and statistical skills, culminating in the student-led Geographical Investigation report submitted for assessment.
- 04
Elective Unit Four – Patterns and Processes in Economic Activities
An elective examining the location and change of primary, secondary and tertiary economic activities, resources and energy, transport, trade, and the role of economic policy and globalisation.
- 05
Elective Unit Five – Patterns and Processes in the Human Environment
An elective studying population dynamics, distribution and migration, settlement patterns, and the growth, structure and challenges of urban and rural areas.
- 06
Optional Unit Six – Global Interdependence
A Higher Level option exploring models of development, global inequality and trade, the role of multinationals, NGOs and aid, and sustainability and environmental issues at a global scale.
- 07
Optional Unit Seven – Geoecology
A Higher Level option on soils, soil formation and horizons, the characteristics of a chosen biome, and the human impact of deforestation, agriculture and development on ecosystems.
- 08
Optional Unit Eight – Culture and Identity
A Higher Level option examining the distribution of races, the role of language and religion in identity, related cultural conflicts, and the formation of physical and political boundaries and nationality.
- 09
Optional Unit Nine – The Atmosphere-Ocean Environment
A Higher Level option on the composition and dynamics of the atmosphere and oceans, the hydrological cycle, global circulation, a chosen global climate, and the evidence and causes of climate change.
03 · Where this subject applies
Where this subject applies
These pathways and regions are explicitly connected to the subject in the curriculum.
Levels and pathways
Higher Level
Higher Level — the more demanding level, with broader and deeper content and the H1–H8 grade scale.
Ordinary Level
Ordinary Level — the foundational level covering the core of the syllabus, graded O1–O8.
Regions
All registered regions
04 · Official sources
Official sources
The public sources below are referenced directly by this subject or by one of its topics.
This editorial selection points to the relevant official bodies. Always confirm current requirements, dates and exceptional arrangements with your school and the responsible authority.
2
Public references
IE · EuraStudy Guides
Place this subject inside the complete curriculum.
Open the curriculum guide to see every subject and topic, or continue to EuraStudy Summa to begin working with the material.