Geography is a dynamic subject that is firmly grounded in the real world and focuses on the interactions between individuals, societies and physical processes in both time and space. It seeks to identify trends and patterns in these interactions. It also investigates how people adapt and respond to change, and evaluates actual and possible management strategies associated with such change. Geography describes and helps to explain the similarities and differences between different places. These may be defined on a variety of scales and from the perspectives of a different range of actors, with varying powers over decision-making processes. Within individual and societal subjects, Geography is distinctive in its spatial dimension and occupies a middle ground between social or human sciences and natural sciences. The Diploma Programme Geography course integrates physical, environmental and human geography, and ensures that students acquire elements of both socio-economic and scientific methodologies. Geography takes advantage of its position to examine relevant concepts and ideas from a wide variety of disciplines. This helps students develop life skills and have an appreciation of, and respect for, alternative approaches, viewpoints and ideas. Universities and employers value Geography very highly for the reasons outlined above. Students don't have to have completed IGCSE Geography to gain access to the IB Geography course. Aims • Develop an understanding of the dynamic interrelationships between people, places, spaces and the environment at different scales • Develop a critical awareness in the context of the nexus of geographic issues, including: – acquiring an in-depth understanding of how geographic issues have been shaped by powerful human and physical processes – synthesizing diverse geographical knowledge to form viewpoints about how these issues could be resolved • Understand and evaluate the need for planning and sustainable development through the management of resources at varying scales.