DEFINITION Geography is a science that studies physical and human processes and spatial patterns on Earth in an integrated way over space and time. It examines the spatial distribution of people and their activities, physical and humanmade features, ecosystems and interactions between humans, and between humans and the environment in a dynamic context.

PURPOSE Geography enables learners to explain processes and spatial patterns, to make well-informed judgements about changing environments and contexts, to think more critically and creatively about what it means to live sustainably, to recognise how values and attitudes influence and affect the environment, and to apply a range of geographical skills and techniques to issues and challenges in a rapidly-changing world.

Geography in the Further Education and Training band aims to:

■ develop tools and skills to research, interpret, analyse and make judgements based on the information gathered, thereby contributing to geographical literacy. These tools are central to the distinctive approach of Geography in order to understand physical and human patterns and processes on Earth. Informed decisions, important to the well-being of society and the environment, are based on a range of geographical skills. All these decisions involve the ability to acquire, arrange and use geographical information and to think systematically and critically about social and environmental issues and challenges.

 ■ develop knowledge and critical understanding of the changing nature and interrelatedness of human existence and the environment over space and time. This creates a frame of reference for asking and answering geographical questions, identifying and solving problems, and evaluating the consequences of alternative solutions and possible actions. Geography is in the unique position of drawing together aspects of natural sciences, humanities and indigenous knowledge systems in order to contribute to the understanding of spatial distribution, human-environment interactions, and sustainable development.

 ■ prepare learners to become informed, critical and responsible citizens who can make sound judgements and take appropriate action that will contribute to equitable and sustainable development of human society and the physical environment. Geography prepares learners to become responsible and competent decision makers and agents, living and working in a complex world. It encourages them to challenge and address social and environmental injustices.

Learners will be guided to develop attitudes and values that will Geography 9 encourage them to take appropriate action, where possible, to address social and environmental problems and injustices.

 SCOPE The scope of Geography in the Further Education and Training band covers three major aspects of geographical studies: geographical skills and techniques (Learning Outcome 1); knowledge and understanding (Learning Outcome 2); and the application of skills and knowledge to practical issues and challenges (Learning Outcome 3). Each Learning Outcome is underpinned by Assessment Standards (eleven in each grade), which are supported by the content of the subject.