Geographical Association logo
You are not logged in
you are here: home >> Projects >> Pilot GCSE >> Resources >> Optional Units >> GIS
Pilot GCSE
Background   
Specification   
Teachers' Resource Guide   
Resources   
My Place   
Extreme Environment   
People as Consumers   
GIS in Pilot   
Rivendell   
Optional Units   
Coursework   
Examinations   
Links to Existing GCSEs   
Pilot GCSE: Option 1 - Geographical Information Systems

This unit, written by Fred Martin, provides an opportunity for candidates to explore ways in which GIS can be used in geographical studies. It includes learning about the wider background as well as applications and issues relating to the use of GIS. Although this is a ‘predominantly vocational’ unit, other elements ensure that it is not purely skills-focused.

Information on the context and concepts underpinning this unit is followed by assessment objectives, ways of planning content (with an associated planning grid). Links with other units are detailed in the downloads, and suggested resources are listed below.

The full GIS unit and the planning grid can be downloaded below.

Option 2: GIS Unit (51k)
note: this file requires Microsoft Word.

Option 2: GIS planning grid (48k)
note: this file requires Microsoft Word.

Resources

There is no shortage of resources to teach GIS, though a problem may be that at the start these resources may need to:
  • be assembled from diverse sources
  • be adapted for use by candidates
  • have activities written to help candidates work with the resources.
Very few existing geography textbooks will help with background information about GIS and related technologies. But numerous resources can be downloaded from the internet or used directly on screen (including information about GIS, GPS and other systems that use ICT, examples of different organisations that make use of GIS and satellite images and base maps).

Although having a GIS package is an essential starting point, it is equally important to ensure that it is accessible via the school/college intranet! Fairly frequent access to computers is a pre-requisite for this unit and will need long term booking.

Build up a resource pack using a combination of hard copy and digital resources with related websites. This is fast moving field of study so keep up to date with the resources that are available.

Details of a number of suppliers and training providers can be found on the GIS in the Pilot GCSE page.

<<< Back to Optional Units
 
All pages © The Geographical Association 2004-2006  - Disclaimer

The GA is an independent charity funded predominantly by members.
Support us by becoming a member.
GA Sponsor: