“This year’s advanced geography paper has been labelled as equitable, timely and providing students ample scope to excel, as per various teaching professionals. Edmond Hussey, who is a teaching associate at CBC Cork as well as the ASTI’s subject spokesperson, confirmed that the exam paper granted a decent choice to the pupils. “From the feedback given by the examinees, it is clear that the exam was well-received,” he stated.
The examination was characterized by clarity and brevity of language, which he found satisfying. Diverse presentation of data was also observed, including latest volcanic incidences in Iceland, CSO’s population statistics for 2022 and short questions pertaining to Ireland’s afforestation and data from Fáilte Ireland.
Mr Hussey commended the return of ‘short questions’ in their true sense without infringing upon the essay-writing time for candidates, who are expected to pen approximately seven essays at the advanced level.
Touching upon Leaving Cert geography at the advanced level, Lesley Astin, an educator at the Institute of Education, pointed out that adhering to the strict time limit could be challenging for some. Exciting questions could potentially distract students from managing their time wisely.
“Upon completion of the examination, students are likely to feel exhaustion coupled with relief. The fairness of the paper allowed them to comprehensively showcase their learning,” Astin enunciated.
Adaptations made to this year’s paper allowed students to leverage the content they were well-acquainted with. Astin mentioned that students were met with no unforeseen surprises. A well-prepared student could easily identify the requirements of the paper and could take informed decisions to maximize their scores.
While a few moments proved to be slightly confusing, like subzone V for instance, a swift look at the map clarified all doubts.
Both educators affirmed that students particularly enjoyed the geo-ecology question as it presented clear objectives. Ms Astin emphasised that elective five centred around migrants and immigration policies, resonated with the current affairs.
Well-performing students who have a firm understanding of the material and are conscious of ongoing debates and news were given an opportunity to stand out, she expressed. In part two of Leaving Cert geography at an advanced level, Mr Hussey mentioned that the ordinary paper was quite feasible.”
“There wasn’t any unexpected shocks, and pupils would have felt comfortable with the options provided in every section,” he stated.
The questions were divided neatly into three, four or sometimes even five sections. Although, certain questions were verbose, particularly question 10C as an example, they were equitable and guided the students smoothly from one segment to the next.
This included the first and second part of the Leaving Cert geography curriculum at an ordinary level.
Test yourself with this: Leaving Cert geography, advanced level
Q12 (B) Migration
Explore how recent migration trends are influencing migration policies in Europe.”