IGCSE Geography : Syllabus, Notes & More
The IGCSE Geography Course and IGCSE Online Academic Tutoring are designed to provide students with knowledge and understanding of geographical concepts and skills. Through the study of local, regional, and global environments, students gain a “sense of place” and explore both natural and human-made landscapes. They learn about the interaction between people and their surroundings and the various environmental opportunities and challenges different regions face.
The IGCSE Geography syllabus is structured around three key themes:
- Theme 1: Population and Settlement
- Theme 2: The Natural Environment
- Theme 3: Economic Development.
With the help of the official textbook and regular practice using IGCSE Geography past papers, students build lifelong analytical and problem-solving skills. The course also includes practical exercises and activities that help learners develop the ability to interpret and analyze geographical data and information effectively.
To support preparation, students are encouraged to use a well-structured IGCSE Geography notes aligned with the syllabus, which further strengthens their understanding of how different environments influence global societies and development patterns.
Cambridge IGCSE Geography 0460: Assessment Structure (AOs)
The Cambridge IGCSE Geography 0460 syllabus is assessed through three externally assessed papers, each designed to evaluate specific skills and knowledge areas. To be eligible for grades A to G*, candidates must appear for all three papers as outlined by the official IGCSE Geography syllabus. Here’s a detailed look at the assessment structure and assessment objectives (AOs):
Paper 1- Geographical Themes
Type: Externally assessed
Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
Weighting: 45% of the final grade
Marks: 75 marks total
Content: This paper focuses on three core themes:
- Population and settlement
- The Natural Environment
- Economic Development
Structure:
Paper 1 consists of three sections covering one of the above themes. Candidates must answer one question from each section, for a total of three questions. Each question carries 25 marks and includes a mix of short structured questions, data responses, and longer open-ended questions that assess knowledge, understanding, and application.
Preparation Tip: Practicing IGCSE Geography past papers for Paper 1 is crucial to mastering exam techniques and time management.
Paper 2: Geographical Skills
Type: Externally assessed.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Weighting: 27.5% of the final grade
Marks: 60 marks total
Content: This paper assesses geographical skills, including:
- Map reading and interpretation
- Data analysis and graph work
- Fieldwork-related scenarios
- Use of topographical maps and satellite images.
Structure
Paper 2 contains all compulsory questions- students must answer all questions in this paper. The questions test the ability to apply geographical skills in a practical context using real-world data and resources.
Pro Tip: Reviewing IGCSE Geography notes and maps and solving past skill-based questions will strengthen your understanding and improve your accuracy.
Optional Component: IGCSE Geography Paper 3 or Paper 4
In addition to Papers 1 and 2, students pursuing the Cambridge IGCSE Geography 0460 qualification must choose either Paper 3 or Paper 4 as their third component. Both components carry equal weightage and assess the ability to apply geographical knowledge and skills in different formats.
Paper 3- Coursework (Center-Based Assessment)
- Type: Internally assessed (by the teacher), externally moderated
- Weighting: 27.5% of the final grade
- Total marks: 60 marks
- Format: Center-Based Assessment (CBA)
- Word Limit: Up to 2000 words
Overview
This paper is based on IGCSE Geography coursework, where students complete a fieldwork investigation under teacher supervision. The school (center) sets one geographical enquiry, and students must produce a written report (max. 2000 words) demonstrating their ability to collect, analyze, and interpret primary and secondary data.
Paper 4: Alternative to Coursework (Externally Assessed)
- Type: Written exam
- Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Weighting: 27.5% of the final grade
- Total marks: 60 marks
- Format: Externally assessed alternative to fieldwork
Overview
IGCSE Geography Paper 4 is designed for students who do not opt for center-based coursework. Instead of a practical fieldwork project, students take a written paper that evaluates their understanding of fieldwork techniques and data analysis. Students must answer all questions in this paper, which is structured to test their ability to interpret and evaluate geographical data.
Note:
Students can only choose one of these papers (either Paper 3 or Paper 4), which should align with their school’s offerings and their preferences for practical or theoretical assessment formats.
Cambridge IGCSE Geography Weighting in IGCSE and Components % for AOs
| Weighting in IGCSE andComponents % | ||||
| Assessment objective | Weighting in IGCSE % | Paper 1 | Paper 2 | Component Paper 3 and Paper 4 |
| AO1 | 30 | 48 | 11 | 20 |
| AO2 | 52 | 30 | 80 | 60 |
| AO3 | 18 | 22 | 9 | 20 |
| Total | 100 | |||
Frequently Asked Questions
What topics are in IGCSE geography?
It covers physical, human and environmental topics including climate, ecosystems, population, migration and so forth, helping students understand global issues and geographical processes through case studies and practical skills.
Is there geography in IGCSE?
Yes, IGCSE offers Geography as a subject, covering physical, human and environmental topics. Helps students to develop geographical knowledge, analytical skills and understand global issues.
How many papers are there in IGCSE geography?
The exam usually has two or three exam papers, depending on syllabus. These assess physical and human geography, map skills and so forth.
How to pass geography IGCSE?
To pass the exam, study all topics thoroughly, practise past papers, improve map skills, understand case studies, manage exam time effectively, and review feedback to strengthen weak areas before exam.
How long is the IGCSE geography exam?
The exam typically lasts between 1 hour 30 minutes and 1 hour 45 minutes per paper, depending on the syllabus, with multiple papers contributing to final grade.
