specification overview
Cambridge IGCSE Geography (0460) is a single-tier linear qualification with three components covering physical and human geography plus a fieldwork element. Paper 1 (Geographical Themes) is 45%; Paper 2 (Geographical Skills) is 27.5%; Component 3 (Coursework) or Paper 4 (Alternative to Coursework) makes up the remaining 27.5%. Grades are reported on the A*-G scale, with 9-1 available as an alternative entry (centres choose one scale).
subject content
1. Population and settlement
Paper 1- Population dynamics, structure and density
- Migration, urbanisation, settlement patterns
2. The natural environment
Paper 1- Earthquakes and volcanoes, rivers, coasts, weather and climate
- Ecosystems: hot deserts and tropical rainforests
3. Economic development
Paper 1- Development indicators, agricultural systems, industrial systems
- Tourism, energy, water use, environmental risks and benefits
4. Geographical skills
Paper 2- Interpreting Ordnance Survey and other maps
- Interpreting statistical data, graphs, photographs and satellite images
- Fieldwork techniques
5. Coursework or Alternative to Coursework
Component 3 or Paper 4- Component 3: One coursework assignment of up to 2000 words based on fieldwork
- Paper 4: Written alternative testing fieldwork skills
assessment structure
| Paper | What's assessed | Length | Marks | Weight | Question types |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 (Geographical Themes) | Three themes: population and settlement, natural environment, economic development | 1h 45m | 75 | 45% | Three sections (one per theme), each with two questions. Answer one question from each section - three questions in total, each worth 25 marks |
| Paper 2 (Geographical Skills) | Interpreting maps, data, photographs, fieldwork techniques | 1h 30m | 60 | 27.5% | Structured questions using stimulus material (OS maps, statistical data, photographs) |
| Component 3 – Coursework, option 1 | Coursework based on fieldwork investigation | Coursework | 60 | 27.5% | One coursework assignment of up to 2000 words. Internally marked, externally moderated by Cambridge |
| Paper 4 (Alternative to Coursework), option 2 | Written test of fieldwork skills and techniques | 1h 30m | 60 | 27.5% | Structured questions on fieldwork methods, data collection, analysis and evaluation |
Schools choose Component 3 (Coursework) OR Paper 4 (Alternative to Coursework), not both. Coursework is a single assignment of up to 2000 words based on fieldwork; Paper 4 is a written exam testing similar skills.
assessment objectives
| AO | What it means | Overall |
|---|---|---|
| AO1 | Knowledge with understanding of the syllabus content. | 30% |
| AO2 | Skills and analysis, including geographical enquiry and the use of appropriate skills. | 52% |
| AO3 | Judgement and decision-making using geographical skills and understanding. | 18% |
key tips for success
Master OS map skills for Paper 2
Paper 2 always uses OS maps: 4- and 6-figure grid references, contour interpretation, distance and area measurement. Drill these until fast.
Learn 6-8 case studies in depth
Paper 1 rewards case studies. Learn 2-3 per theme: one earthquake, one flood/coastline, one migration, one urban settlement, one industry, one ecosystem.
Practise question choice on Paper 1
Paper 1 has 3 sections and you choose 1 question from the 2 offered in each section - 3 questions in total, each worth 25 marks. Read both options in a section before committing. Play to strengths but make sure you have revised all three themes.
Choose Coursework vs Alternative early
Coursework rewards steady fieldwork; Alternative to Coursework rewards exam technique. Your school picks based on facilities.
Structure judgement answers clearly
AO3 (18%) rewards clear judgement. Every extended answer needs: point, evidence, analysis, considered judgement with reasoning.
Practise past papers
Cambridge past papers date back years. Do timed practice for all 3 papers, focus on stamina for Paper 1's 1h 45m.
Where to next
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