Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Form 4 Geography

This course is based on the CSEC Geography syllabus, adapted for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The syllabus covers a range of topics related to both physical and human geography, with a focus on the Caribbean region. It emphasizes practical skills, including map reading and field study techniques.

I. Map Reading and Field Study: This section equips students with the skills to interpret and create maps, conduct field research, and analyze geographical data. Topics include:

• Map projections, scales, and symbols
• Measuring distance and direction
• Grid references and coordinates
• Topographic maps and interpretation of contours
• Fieldwork techniques: data collection, analysis, and presentation

II. Natural Systems: This section explores the Earth's physical processes and their impact on the environment. Key topics include:

• Internal Forces: Plate tectonics, earthquakes, volcanoes, and folding and faulting. The Caribbean's unique tectonic setting is emphasized, including the interaction of the Caribbean and North American plates.
• External Forces: Weathering, erosion, transportation, and deposition. The formation of various landforms is studied, including rivers, coasts, and limestone environments.
• Rivers: River processes, drainage patterns, and the impact of human activities on rivers.
• Limestone Environments: Karst landscapes, cave formation, and the importance of limestone for economic activities.
• Coasts: Coastal processes, landforms, and the challenges of coastal management.
• Weather, Climate, Vegetation, and Soil: Atmospheric processes, climate types, the relationship between climate and vegetation, and soil formation. The Caribbean's tropical climate and its influence on the region's ecosystems are highlighted.
• Natural Hazards: The types, causes, and effects of natural hazards, including hurricanes, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. The specific risks faced by Saint Vincent and the Grenadines are examined.

III. Human Systems: This section focuses on human populations, their activities, and their impact on the environment. Topics include:

• Population and Settlement: Population distribution, density, growth, and migration. Urban and rural settlements, and the factors influencing their location and development.
• Economic Activities: Agriculture, industry, tourism, and their impact on the environment. The economic challenges and opportunities faced by Caribbean countries are discussed.
• Resources: The distribution, use, and management of natural resources, including water, minerals, and forests. Sustainable development and resource conservation are emphasized.

IV. Human-Environment Systems: This section explores the complex relationship between humans and their environment. Topics include:

• Environmental Management: The impact of human activities on the environment, including pollution, deforestation, and climate change. Strategies for environmental management and sustainable development are discussed.
• Geographical Information Systems (GIS): The use of GIS for spatial analysis and environmental management.