From the 30th March to the 2nd April, the Year 12 Geographers carried out essential fieldwork for their A Level Geography coursework worth 20% of their final grade. After travelling by train to Weymouth, students had the chance to look at the coastal management strategies being used to protect Chesil beach. Then it was on to the Portland Bird Observatory Field Centre where they stayed in a lighthouse with beautiful views over Portland Bill and the sea.
The next day they carried out extensive fieldwork on Chesil Beach and Preston Beach, including beach profiles, measuring wave energy, measuring sediment size, interviewing local businesses and photographing coastal defence systems in place. Students also investigated the legacy of the 2012 Olympic Games in Portland and Weymouth and the extent to which Weymouth is managed sustainably. They carried out environmental impact assessments, land-use surveys, residential quality surveys and noise pollution measurements among other things. They also interviewed local businesses and carried out questionnaires with locals and visitors to understand their views on these topics.
On Wednesday they went to Studland Bay to investigate the species diversity at three different sites and to measure the amount of carbon in the vegetation and the soil. Students learnt about a variety of data presentation methods and statistical analysis that they can carry out to analyse the data they have collected for their coursework.
On Thursday students collected any final primary data they needed before the journey home. They were lucky to have good weather and the opportunity to learn a lot about the geography of the Isle of Portland. The students worked hard and will now be busy writing up their coursework report.
Here is some feedback from the students:
“The top of a lighthouse is quite an interesting place to sleep but nevertheless with the help of Ms P we managed to get up fit and ready every day to complete all the necessary field work.” – P
“An interesting experience getting to sleep in a lighthouse and collecting geographical data on the south coast of the UK.” – K
“Overall, this experience has been one to remember! It was very nice to go to a new area and get to collect some data which can be used for my geography NEA going towards my A levels Geography. Luckily the weather has been great, and it’s been lovely to have the opportunity to get to know my fellow classmates better. A big thank you to Ms P and thank you to our guide Barry!” – A
