Introduction | Geographical Investigation Prescribed topics |5 stages of investigation |
Introduction
This is the key area of study in Core Unit 3 and is compulsory for all students. It is hoped that students will be able to apply the skills learned throughout the course to a specific fieldwork investigation.
The geographical investigation carries 20 per cent of the total marks for both H and O level students. Each year the State Exams Commission will produce a prescribed list of investigation topics. Students, in conjunction with their teachers, must choose one of these. The geographical investigation does not have to be in the “field”. A study of changing demographic patterns, based on the analysis of census data, for example, would be acceptable.
Geographical Investigation prescribed topics
The prescribed list of Geographical Investigation Topics for the 2006 exam are:
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Geomorphic processes of erosion in a fluvial, coastal or glacial environment
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Traffic management
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A study of a local environmental issue
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A survey of land-use in a rural or urban setting
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Changing demographic patterns in a local area
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A study of economic activity in a local setting
N. B. Each candidate is required to complete a report on one of the above Investigation Topics.
This work must be completed in a special booklet provided by your teacher. The final date for handing up 2006 Leaving Cert. Work is April 28th, 2006.
Five stages of Geographical Investigation
Five stages are proposed for the Geographical investigation.
They are:
| Stage |
Activities |
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1. Introduction:
Posing the problems and devising a strategy
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- the selection of a topic for investigation
- a clear statement of hypothesis or aim
- an outline of the objectives
- identification of the types of information required
|
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2. Planning:
Preparation of the work to be carried out
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- the selection of methods for the collection and gathering of information
- the design of a questionnaire or recording sheets
- decisions on locations for the investigation
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3. Collection of data |
- the use of instruments to make measurements
- records of observations made in the field
- the use of questionnaires and surveys as appropriate
- the use of a variety of secondary sources, e.g. documentary sources
- a discussion of the problems encountered
|
4. Preparation of the report |
- the organisation of data
- the use of illustrations graphs, maps, and tables
- the use of ICT, where appropriate, to prepare and present results and conclusions
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5. Conclusion and evaluation |
- analysis and interpretation of results
- the drawing of valid conclusions
- the comparison of findings with established theory
- the evaluation of hypotheses
- the examination of the validity of the investigation and suggestions for improvements
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Both primary and secondary sources of information should be used in your investigation. The recommended division is approximately 60% from primary sources and 40% from secondary sources. Primary sources would include: recorded measurements of e.g. river depth, soil samples or answers questionnaires. Secondary sources would include statistics, census of population data, articles in newspapers, etc.
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