SAMPLE PAPERS

Paper 1 Sl and Hl
Option A Freshwater – drainage basins
The photo shows a flood mitigation strategy. (c)
Either
Examine the conflicts associated with one
internationally shared water resource. (10)
Or
Examine the success of efforts to protect wetlands
from growing pressures. (10)

Option B Oceans and coastal margins

The diagram shows world fish supply and
utilization, 1950–2014.
(a) (i) Describe the trends in food uses and non-
food uses of fish between 1950 and 2014.
Part of the River Thames in Oxford (2 + 2)
(ii) Explain three ways in which fish stocks
(a) (i) Identify the flood mitigation strategy
can be managed. (2 + 2 + 2)
shown in the photo. (1)
(b)
(ii) Explain how the method used in the
photo helps to reduce the likelihood of Either
flooding. (2) Examine the management issues associated with
(iii) Comment on the advantages and coral reefs. (10)
disadvantages of flood prediction as a Or
method of flood protection. (3)
Examine the attempts to manage ocean pollution.
(b) Explain two ways in which afforestation
(10)
can reduce the risk of flooding. (2 + 2)

160 24
Fish utilization (million tonnes)

Key
Population (billions) and food

140 21
Food Non-food uses Population Food supply
120 18
supply (kg/capita)

100 15
The State of the world’s
80 12
fisheries and aquaculture
60 9
Source: Food & Agriculture
40 6 Organization, The State of World
20 3
Fisheries and Aquaculture 2016.
Contributing to food security and
0 0 nutrition for all, 2016, http://www.
1950 1955 1960 1965 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 2014 fao.org/fishery/sofia/en

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 S A M P L E PA P E R S

Option C Extreme environments

The diagram shows a model of wind movement,
transport and the erosion of a rock pedestal/
mushroom rock.

Prevailing wind

Suspension
Mushroom rock/
zone
1m rock pedestal

Saltation
zone
0.1 m
Surface creep

Wind movement, transport and erosion in a hot desert environment

Source: Guinness, P. and Nagle, G. 2016. Cambridge International A and AS Level Geography. London, UK.
Hodder Education

(a) (i) B
 riefly explain two forms of wind erosion Or
in hot, arid areas. (2 + 2)
Examine the potential of extreme environments to
(ii) Explain the role of wind and water in the contribute to sustainable development, using new
formation of sand dunes and wadis (3 + 3) forms of technology. (10)
(b)
Either Option D Geophysical hazards
Examine the opportunities for tourism in extreme The map shows the spatial and temporal
environments. (10) distribution of aftershocks following an earthquake
in Nepal on 25 April 2015. The epicentres of
historical earthquakes are also shown.

25.4.2015

26.8.1833
12.5.2015

Kathmandu

15.1.1934

21.8.1988

Distribution of aftershocks, Nepal, 25 April 2015

Aftershock National border Date Source: Munich Re, 2016. Natural catastrophes 2015:
Magnitude Rupture zone in 30.6.2015 Analyses, assessments, positions. https://www.
4.0-4.9 April 2015 munichre.com/site/touch-publications/get/documents_
5.0-5.9 Epicentres of E1273659874/mr/assetpool.shared/Documents/5_Touch/_
≥6.0 historical earthquakes 25.4.2015 Publications/302-08875_en.pdf

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 S A M P L E PA P E R S

The diagram shows the main area affected by 2015 (a) (i) Describe how the type of recreation varies
earthquake in Nepal. with age. (2)
(ii) Briefly explain how the family life cycle
model helps to explain participation in
sport/recreation and tourism. (2 + 2)
(iii) Explain how economic development
influences participation in leisure
activities. (2 + 2)
(b)

Nepal – main area affected by 2015 earthquake Either

Source: Munich Re, 2016. Natural catastrophes 2015: Analyses, assessments, The costs of hosting an international sporting event
positions. https://www.munichre.com/site/touch-publications/get/
always exceed the benefits. Discuss the validity of
documents_E1273659874/mr/assetpool.shared/Documents/5_Touch/_
Publications/302-08875_en.pdf this statement. (10)
(a) (i) Describe the spatial variations in the Or
aftershocks associated with the earthquake Examine the view that the geographic impacts
on 25 April 2015. (2) of large-scale events (musical/cultural and/or
(ii) Describe the temporal variations in the religious) are largely negative. (10)
aftershocks associated with the earthquake
on 25 April 2015. (2)
Option F The geography of food
(b) Explain three factors that influence the impact
of an earthquake. and health
(c) The diagram shows changes in the contribution of
different food types to the calorie intake in China
Either
between 1969 and 2009.
Examine the reasons why vulnerability to
100%
geophysical hazards vary. (10) 6.68% 7.63% 11.73%
0.4% 0.4%
90% 2.5% 1.9%
Or 2.5% 3.1% 0.7% 19.19%
22.86%
2.7%
Discuss the view that the occurrence and impacts 80% 11.8% 5.4%
1.7%
17.1%
of geophysical hazards are increasing. (10) 6.2% 4.5% 2.7%
70% 5.6% 6.8%

Option E Leisure, tourism and sport 60%

6.2%
7.1%

The diagram shows a graphical representation of 4.9%

50%
stages in the life-cycle and recreation.
40%
67.5% 64.7%
62.6%
30% 55.0%
47.7%
20%

10%

0%
1969 1979 1989 1999 2009

The four ages of sporting life Key

Cereals Starchy roots Vegetable oils
Source: Jane Upton Vegetables Fruits Animal products

China calorie consumption distribution, 1969–2009

Source: FAO. See http://livablefutureblog.com/2016/08/china-meat-and-dairy-on-
the-rise

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 S A M P L E PA P E R S

(a) Outline the main changes in the contribution (a) (i) I dentify the two areas where the urban
of (i) cereals, and (ii) animal products to calorie population is predicted to grow most by
consumption in China, 1969–2009. (2 + 2) 2050. (1)
(b) Explain three reasons why nutrition varies with (ii)  State the location where the least urban
level of development. (2 + 2 + 2) growth is projected to occur. (1)
(c) (iii) Suggest one reason why rates of
urbanization vary. (2)
Either
(b) Explain three reasons for the development of
“Increasingly, most famines are caused by human heat islands. (2 + 2 + 2)
factors rather than physical factors.” Discuss this (c)
statement with reference to named and located
examples. (10) Either

Or “The informal economy is the effective way for

most people to get out of urban poverty.” Discuss
Examine the usefulness of the epidemiological this statement. (10)
transition model. (10)
Or
Option G Urban environments Examine the social and demographic consequences
The graph shows trends in world urbanization of deindustrialization. (10)
between 1950 and 2050.

100
Key
Africa Asia Europe South America
90 North America World Oceania

80

70
Percentage Urbanisation

60

50

40

30

20

10

0
1950 1955 1960 1965 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 2011 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 2045 2050
World urbanization for different world areas, 1950–2050
Source: http://www.coolgeography.co.uk/A-level/AQA/Year%2013/World%20Cities/Urbanisation/UrbanisationPatterns.png

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 S A M P L E PA P E R S

Paper 2 SL and HL
Unit 1 Changing population
South Sudan Japan

100+ Male Female 100+ Male Female

95–99 95–99
90–94 90–94
85–89 85–89
80–84 80–84
75–79 75–79
70–74 70–74
65–69 65–69
60–64 60–64
55–59 55–59
50–54 50–54
45–49 45–49
40–44 40–44
35–39 35–39
30–34 30–34
25–29 25–29
20–24 20–24
15–19 15–19
10–14 10–14
5–9 5–9
0–4 0–4

7.5% 5% 2.5% 2.5% 5% 7.5% 7.5% 5% 2.5% 2.5% 5% 7.5%

Population pyramids for South Sudan (population 12.7 million) and Japan (126 million), 2016
Source: https://populationpyramid.net

(a) The graphs show population pyramids for
South Sudan (population 12.7 million) and
Japan (126 million) in 2016.
(i) Describe the main characteristics of the
population pyramid for South Sudan and
for Japan. (4)
(ii) Suggest two reasons for the differences
that you have noted in part (i). (2 + 2)
(iii) Outline one way in which the method
used to show the population pyramids
may be misleading. (2)
(b) The infographic shows the growth of the
world’s middle income between 2015 and
2030.
(i) Define the term “middle income”. (1)
(ii) Outline the main changes in the
distribution of the world’s middle income
between 2015 and 2030. (4)
(iii) Evaluate the method used to show the
data. (5)
(c)
Either
“The growth of megacities leads to more
disadvantages for individuals and societies than
advantages.” Discuss this statement. (10)
Or
Examine the success of gender equality policies
and/or anti-trafficking policies. (10)

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 S A M P L E PA P E R S

Global middle income, 2015 *After the breakup of the Soviet Union, some republics are
GLOBAL POPULATION BY REGION represented in the Middle East North Africa region.
GERMANY FRANCE ITALY
3% 2% 2%
SPAIN UK U.S.S.R/RUSSIA*
2% 2% 5%
REST OF EUROPE U.S. CANADA
12% 10% 1%
MEXICO BRAZIL REST OF S. AMERICA
3% 4% 6%
JAPAN CHINA INDIA
5% 16% 8%
REST OF ASIA SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA MIDDLE EAST & N. AFRICA
11% 2% 6%

Global middle income, 2030 *After the breakup of the Soviet Union, some republics are
GLOBAL POPULATION BY REGION represented in the Middle East North Africa region.
GERMANY FRANCE ITALY
1% 1% 1%
SPAIN UK U.S.S.R/RUSSIA*
1% 1% 3%
REST OF EUROPE U.S. CANADA
7% 4% 1%
MEXICO BRAZIL REST OF S. AMERICA
2% 3% 4%
JAPAN CHINA INDIA
2% 20% 29%
REST OF ASIA SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA MIDDLE EAST & N. AFRICA
13% 2% 5%

Global middle income, 2015 (top) and global middle income, 2030 (bottom)
Source: http://www.reuters.com/middle-class-infographic

Unit 2 Global climate – Cooling influences Warming influences

vulnerability and resilience Carbon dioxide

CO2
Long-lived
The diagram shows the warming and greenhouse N2O
gases
cooling impacts of difference human Methane CH4 Halocarbons
activities. The lines represent the Nitrous oxide
range of estimates, the bars represent Ozone Stratospheric Tropospheric
the average impact. (–0.05)

Stratospheric
Study the diagram.
Human activities

water vapour

(a) (i) I dentify the factor with the Surface

Land use Soot (black carbon) on snow
reflectivity
greatest warming effect. (1)
(ii) Identify the factor with Direct
Reflective
particles

effect
the greatest range of Cloud
uncertainty. (1) reflective
effect

Total net human

activities

Total natural
The warming and cooling impacts of difference influences
human activities (solar output)

Source: Guinness, P. and Nagle, G. 2016. Cambridge International –2 –1 0 1 2

A and AS Level Geography. London, UK. Hodder Education Watts/m2

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 S A M P L E PA P E R S

Adaptation Technological
solutions
Solutions For Buildings
• New building materials

a Changing • Improved building

insulation and

Climate
heating/cooling

Agriculture
Engineered & • New crop varieties &
Disaster risk reduction
animal breeds
built-environment • Efficient irrigation
• Hazard mapping
& monitoring
solutions • Flexible farm management
• Early warning systems
• Food & storage
• Emergency response and
preservation facilities
Coasts recovery management
• Sea walls & coastal
protection structures
• Flood & cyclone shelters
• Mangrove conservation
& replanting

Urban
• Improved energy,
transport & water
infrastructure
• Power plant & electricity Fisheries
grid enhancements • Sustainable fisheries
• Green infrastructure management Ecosystem-based
& spaces solutions
Institutional
solutions
Community Conservation
• National, regional & local • Reduce existing ecosystem stressors
adaptation plans • Assisted migration or managed translocation Methods of climate adaptation
• Land zoning & building codes • Ex-situ conservation & seed banks
• Insurance • Community based natural resource management Source: https://blogs.csiro.au/climate-response/
• Education wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2014/03/CSIRO-climate-
adaption-infographic2.png

(iii) Compare the total natural influence with (iv) Outline the role of land-zoning and
total net human influence. (2) building codes relative to climate change
(iv) Suggest why total net human influences adaptation. (2)
have a greater impact than natural (v) Explain how energy, transport and/or
influences. (2) water infrastructure can be improved to
(v) Explain the process of global dimming. (4) adapt to climate change. (3)
(b) The infographic shows methods of climate (c)
adaptation. Either
(i) Define adaptation. (1)
Examine the role of climate mitigation strategies as
(ii) Briefly explain how mangrove
a means of dealing with climate change. (10)
conservation and replanting can help fight
climate change. (2) Or
(iii) Suggest how new varieties of crops and “Climate change will have a disproportionate effect
animal breeds may adapt to deal with on selected population groups.” Discuss the validity
climate change. (2) of this statement. (10)

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 S A M P L E PA P E R S

Unit 3 Global resource consumption and security

End-of-life product flows based on 2010 EU figures ESTIMATES
Percentage of total end-of-life devices

Status quo Transition scenario

Mining Mining

Parts manufacturer Parts manufacturer

Product manufacturer 9 Recycle Product manufacturer 10 Recycle

Service provider 0 Remanufacture Service provider 21 Remanufacture

6 Reuse 19 Reuse

Maintenance Maintenance

User 15 User
85 50 50
Collection
Collection
Unaccounted Unaccounted
and landfill and landfill

Mobile phones: reuse and remanufacturing

Source: Ellen MacArthur Foundation

(a) (i) Define the term “ecological footprint”. (1)
(ii) Outline the main components of the
ecological footprint. (2)
(iii) Compare the ecological footprint of high-
income countries with that of low-income
countries. (3)
(iv) Explain two ways in which ecological
footprints can be reduced. (4)
(b) The infographic shows the reuse and
remanufacturing of mobile phones as an
alternative to recycling.
(i) State the percentage of mobile phones
that are currently sent to landfill or are
unaccounted for. (1)
(ii) State the percentage of mobile phones, in
the Transition scenario, that are projected
to be sent to landfill or are unaccounted
for. (1)
(iii) Describe how reuse of mobile phones
changes in the transition scenario. (1)
(iv) Suggest ways in which mobile phones
could be reused. (2)
(v) Outline the advantages of the transition
scenario. (5)
(c)
Either
Examine the potential impact of climate change on
the water-food-energy nexus. (10)
Or
Discuss the view that the world is about to enter a
neo-Malthusian crisis. (10)

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Higher level extension
Unit 4 Power, places and networks
(a) Analyse the trends in one or more
communications network. (12)
(b) Discuss the view that the role of multi-
government organizations is central to the
success of global interactions. (16)
Unit 5 Human development and
diversity
(a) Discuss the view that all countries should be
allowed to control their own resources. (12)
(b) Discuss the view that the world’s built
environment is becoming more similar. (16)
Unit 6 Global risks and resilience
(a) Examine the advantages and disadvantages of
crowdsourcing. (12)
(b) Examine how global interactions create
environmental risks in different places. (16)
Mark scheme
Option A Freshwater – drainage basins
(a) (i) Artificial levee/raised bank. [1]
(ii) Award [1] for each valid point made and a
further [1] for the development/extension
of the point. For example:
It raises the capacity of the river by
making it deeper [1], therefore it is able
to hold more water and reduces the
likelihood of flooding [1].
(iii) 
Award [1] for each valid point made.
Award a maximum of [2] for either
advantages or disadvantages. For example:
Flood prediction can predict floods in
the short term and so warnings about
the potential scale of any floods can be
issued [1]; the use of radars/satellites
allows greater scope for predictions [1];
the use of websites allows predictions to
be updated and gives many people easy
access to predictions [1]. However, long-
term predictions are unreliable, and the
further into the future a prediction tries to
forecast, the less reliable it is [1].
4_Sample_papers_for_the_website.indd 9
S A M P L E PA P E R S
(b) Award [1] for each valid point made and a
further [1] for the development/extension of
the point. For example:
Increased vegetation leads to an increase in
interception [1] and a reduction in overland
flow [1]. The water that drips from trees
reaches the ground at a lower velocity than
direct precipitation [1] and so more of it
infiltrates into the soil, and less flows overland,
thereby reducing the risk of flooding/potential
size of the flood [1].
(c)
Either
Examples of international drainage basins include
the Nile, the Ganges and the Mekong. Disputes
arise over the amount of water that individual
countries can use, and how they affect water
quality. Conflicts may arise when one country
believes that another country is using too much
water, and that their own access to water is being
reduced.
Good answers are likely to describe and explain
the conflicts that have arisen in a named drainage
basin. They are likely to examine attempts to
manage the situation; they may examine factors
that might increase the risk of conflict, e.g.
population growth, rising standards of living
(demand for water) and climate change.
At Band D (5–6), expect some outlining of the
conflicts associated with one internationally shared
water resource.
At Band E (7–8), expect either a more detailed
explanation of the conflicts associated with one
internationally shared water resource, with
detailed support, or a more structured examination
of the factors that lead to conflict.
At Band F (9–10), expect both.
Or
The Ramsar Convention is an International Treaty
to conserve wetlands. Wetlands account for 6% of
the Earth’s surface and provide important social,
economic and environmental benefits. There are
many pressures on wetlands, including drainage
for agriculture, land needed for settlement,
transport developments, tourist needs, etc.
Good answers are likely to describe the impacts
of attempts to protect wetlands. They are likely
to comment on the advantages of protecting
24/03/17 7:42 PM

wetlands. Good answers are also likely to consider
the success of protecting wetlands, e.g. Hadejia-
Nguru in Nigeria or the Kissimmee river in Florida,
USA. Good answers are likely to consider the
factors that influence the success or failure of
attempts to manage wetlands, e.g. population
growth, the need for more food production, the
need for more land for settlement provision, global
warming, etc.
At Band D (5–6), expect some outlining of the
value of wetlands and/or the aims of the Ramsar
Convention.
At Band E (7–8), expect either a more detailed
explanation of the success of attempts to
protect wetlands, including detailed support,
or a structured examination of the factors that
influence the success or failure of efforts to protect
wetlands.
At Band F (9–10), expect both.
Option B Oceans and coastal margins
(a) (i) A
 ward [1] for each valid point.
Reserve [1] for quantification. For
example:
The food-use of fish increased steadily
from less than 20 million tonnes in 1950
to over 140 million tonnes in 2014 [1] a
sevenfold increase [1]. In contrast, the use
of fish for non-food products increased
from around 2–3 million tonnes in 1950
to over 20 million tonnes in 1969 [1]. It
fluctuated between around 17 million
tonnes and 30 million tonnes from 1970
to 1995, and then declined to around 20
million tonnes in 2014 [1].
(ii) 
Award [1] for each valid method and
a further [1] for the development/
exemplification of the point. For example:
Restrict catches [1] – total allowable
catches or quotas can be introduced to
keep fishing to within sustainable levels
[1]; nets with larger meshes could be used
[1] as this would allow juvenile fish to
escape from the nets [1]; conservation
areas may be designated [1] so that
breeding is encouraged and fishing
discouraged [1].
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S A M P L E PA P E R S
(c)
Either
The main management issue with coral reefs
is trying to preserve them. Corals have many
economic and environmental benefits, e.g. high
biodiversity, their use in medicines, as a breeding
ground for fish, tourism value, protection against
hurricanes, etc. However, there are many threats
to coral reefs, e.g. coral bleaching, acidification
of seawater, destruction of coral for souvenirs,
dynamiting of coral for fishing, agricultural
discharges, etc. Managing these diverse pressures is
difficult.
Good answers are likely to examine the range
of pressures on coral reefs. They are likely to
consider that some pressures are local in scale
(e.g. agricultural runoff, destruction for souvenirs)
whereas others are global (coral bleaching,
acidification of the oceans). Good answers are
likely to examine alternative management options,
e.g. nature reserves/marine protected areas,
zoning, control of agricultural effluent, education
of visitors to coral reefs, monitoring of fishing
fleets, etc.
At Band D (5–6), expect some outlining of the
management issues associated with coral reefs.
At Band E (7–8), expect either a more detailed
explanation of the management issues associated
with coral reefs, with supporting evidence, or
a structured examination of the factors that
influence management options (e.g. cost, spatial
and temporal scales, variety of stakeholders/
different viewpoints).
At Band F (9–10), expect both.
Or
Ocean pollution includes oil, plastics and
radioactive waste. Marine-based activities that lead
to pollution include the fishing industry, shipping,
offshore mining and extraction, illegal dumping
at sea. Oil spills regularly contaminate coasts all
around the world.
Dispersants are used to control oil slicks and booms
are used to contain them. Concrete containers may
be used to cover/plug oil leaks. The United Nations
Convention on the Law of the Sea regulates many
marine issues. Alternatives to ocean dumping
include recycling, making products that create less
10
24/03/17 7:42 PM

waste, using less energy, and changing dangerous
materials such as sewage sludge into fertilizer.
Good answers will examine one or more forms
of ocean pollution. They may consider various
methods to manage ocean pollution. Good answers
will consider the reasons for the success/failure of
attempts to manage ocean pollution (increasing
scale, increasing global interactions, size of ocean
and difficulties in monitoring, outside of national
waters, etc.).
At Band D (5–6), expect some outlining of attempts
to manage ocean pollution.
At Band E (7–8), expect either a more detailed
explanation of attempts to manage ocean
pollution, with supporting evidence, or a structured
examination of the factors that influence
management options (e.g. cost, spatial and
temporal scales, variety of stakeholders/different
viewpoints).
At Band F (9–10), expect both.
Option C Extreme environments
(a) (i) A
 ward [1] for each process identified
and a further [1] for the development/
explanation. For example:
Deflation is the progressive removal of
small material, leaving behind larger
material [1]. This forms a stony desert, or
reg, or a deflation hollow [1]. Abrasion
is the erosion carried out by wind-borne
particles [1]. They act like sandpaper,
smoothing surfaces and exploiting weaker
rocks/they are most effective between 0.1
m and 1 m above the surface. [1]
(ii) 
Award [1] for the identification of the
processes leading to the formation
of each feature, and a further [2] for
the development/exemplification. For
example:
 and dunes are formed as a result of
S
transport and deposition of sand by
wind [1]; dunes form where wind speed
is high and constant [1] and there is a
large supply of sand [1]; the type of dune
varies with wind speed and direction,
vegetation cover, and the shape of the
land surface [1]. Wadis are dry gullies
that have been eroded by flash floods [1].
4_Sample_papers_for_the_website.indd 11
S A M P L E PA P E R S
Heavy rainstorms (100–250 mm) create
rushing torrents on steep slopes [1]/some
wadis may have been formed in previous
wetter periods (pluvials) [1] and so can be
considered as relict features [1].
(b)
Either
Extreme environments offer many opportunities
for tourism. These range from adventure holidays,
trekking, skiing, cultural tourism. These can be
found in cold environments as well as in hot
environments. Extreme environments cannot
accommodate the same intensity of tourism as
non-extreme environments because they are
fragile and are more sensitive to intentional
or non-intentional impacts. In some extreme
environments, materials need to be imported for
tourists and tourist providers, which makes tourism
in extreme environments expensive.
Good answers are likely to examine the
range of opportunities for tourism in extreme
environments. They are likely to examine
the limits/constraints that such environments
impose on the number of tourist/activities that
can be supported. Good answers may examine
characteristics of tourism in extreme environments
– expensive, specialist, specialist equipment,
low density, sustainable/unsustainable, and may
comment on the opportunities for indigenous
people/local people to benefit from tourism.
At Band D (5–6), expect some outlining of
the opportunities for tourism in extreme
environments.
At Band E (7–8), expect either a more detailed
explanation of the opportunities for tourism
in extreme environments, or a structured
examination of the factors that limit or promote
tourism in extreme environments.
At Band F (9–10), expect both.
Or
Extreme environments have many opportunities
for sustainable development using new technology.
However, some extreme environments offer more
opportunities than others. For example, many
hot desert areas have many hours of clear sky and
sunshine most days, and so have great potential
for developing solar energy. The main drawback
is that areas that can produce solar power are
11
24/03/17 7:42 PM

often distant from the main areas where there is a
demand for energy. Many coastal hot desert areas
have good potential for desalination. Desalination,
in turn, could provide a supply of water to support
an agricultural sector or a tourism sector. The
same is not true in cold areas, as the lack of light
and heat may limit plant growth and might not
be as attractive to visitors. Wind energy offers a
potential source of sustainable energy in both hot
and cold extreme environments. Some extreme
environments may have access to geothermal
power.
Good answers are likely to examine a range of
possible sustainable options (solar, desalination,
wind and geothermal, for example). They may
consider modifications of building design which
may make housing more energy efficient.
Good answers may discuss activities that are
sustainable, e.g. nomadic pastoralism in semi-arid
and periglacial areas, and suggest ways in which
these could make use of new technologies (solar-
powered phones for example). Good answers are
likely to compare hot and cold environments. Good
answers are likely to discuss how innovative ideas
of today could become the norms of tomorrow.
At Band D (5–6), expect some outlining of the
potential of extreme environments to contribute to
sustainable development using new technologies.
At Band E (7–8), expect either a more detailed
explanation of the potential of extreme
environments to contribute to sustainable
development using new technologies, or a
structured examination of the factors that enable/
limit extreme environments to contribute to
sustainable development (e.g. cost, temperatures,
light, remoteness, scale).
At Band F (9–10), expect both.
Option D Geophysical hazards
(a) (i) A
 ward [1] for each valid point. For
example:
Most of the aftershocks occur in a small
part of northern Nepal [1], about 60 km by
20 km [1]; most of the aftershocks were in
a region that has experienced earthquakes
in the past [1]; most of the earthquakes
seem to follow a linear pattern [1]; most of
the earthquakes are quite clustered [1].
4_Sample_papers_for_the_website.indd 12
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(ii) A ward [1] for each valid point. For
example:
Most of the aftershocks occurred soon after
25 April (blue and green on the map) [1];
there were relatively few in June (red) [1].
(b) Award [1] for each valid reason and a further
[1] for the development/exemplification. For
example:
The quality of housing affects the impacts of an
earthquake [1]. Housing that does not adhere
to building codes is more likely to be destroyed
in an earthquake than buildings that have
been built according to earthquake building
codes [1]. There are likely to be more deaths
and injuries in areas with a high population
density [1] and places that are busy, e.g. CBDs
during work-time and motorways during
rush hours may experience increased injuries
and deaths [1]. Depth of the earthquake
focus [1] will have an affect; shallow-focus
earthquakes do greater damage than deep-
focus earthquakes as there is less overlying
material to absorb the energy of the earthquake
[1]. Aftershocks can increase the number of
fatalities and injuries [1] as repeated shaking
may weaken buildings [1].
Accept other valid responses.
(c)
Either
Vulnerability is the geographic condition that
increases the susceptibility of a community to
a hazard or to the impacts of a hazard event.
Economic factors include levels of wealth, building
styles, access to technology, and insurance
cover. Social factors include poverty and level of
education, and demographic factors include age,
gender, disability and mobility. Political factors
include the nature of the government, the size of
the emergency services, and the amount and type
of aid provided. In addition, some people may be
forced to live in areas that experience repeated
geophysical hazards, whereas others choose to live
there.
Good answers are likely to examine a range of
conditions that influence vulnerability. They
may examine how vulnerability differs between
communities and within communities. Good
answers are likely to consider spatial and temporal
variations in vulnerability. Good answers are also
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likely to examine differences in the power of
different geophysical events/the same geophysical
events.
At Band D (5–6), expect some outlining of the
reasons why vulnerability varies.
At Band E (7–8), expect either a more detailed
explanation of the reasons why vulnerability
varies, with detailed support, or a structured
examination of the factors that influence impact
(power, possibilities, places and processes).
At Band F (9–10), expect both.
Or
There is some evidence to suggest that the
occurrence of geophysical hazards has not changed
much over the last 30 years. However, the impact
of geophysical hazards varies greatly from year
to year. There have been major catastrophes,
such as the Asian tsunami in 2004 and the Haiti
earthquake in 2010. In most other years, however,
the number of deaths associated with geophysical
hazards has been much lower. There are different
reasons why the impacts may be increasing (more
people; more people living in vulnerable locations,
e.g. tectonically active/steep slopes; people
migrating due to climate change/armed conflict) or
decreasing (greater prediction, better management,
increased monitoring). In some cases, the
occurrence of geophysical hazards, notably mass
movements, may be increased by human activities.
Good answers are likely to consider natural
geophysical hazards as well as human-induced
geophysical hazards. They will consider both the
occurrence and the impacts. Good answers may
look at spatial and temporal variations in the
occurrence and impacts of geophysical hazards.
Good answers are likely to consider the reasons
for changes in the occurrence/impacts such as
population growth, human habitation of “at risk”
areas, management of risk, improvements in
technology, etc.
At Band D (5–6), expect some outlining of the
occurrence and/or impacts of geophysical hazards.
At Band E (7–8), expect either a more detailed
explanation of the occurrence and impacts of
geophysical hazards, with detailed support, or
a structured examination of the factors that
influence changes in occurrence/impact.
At Band F (9–10), expect both.
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Option E Leisure, tourism and sport
(a) (i) A
 ward [1] for each valid point made. For
example:
The graphic suggests that younger people
– children and young adults – play more
energetic sports such as tennis [1] whereas
older people may take part in sports that
require less physical activity such as golf
and bowls [1].
(ii)  Award [1] for each valid point made and a
further [1] for the development/extension
of the point. For example:
Young people not living at home and
without dependents might have a
greater disposable income [1] and may
therefore travel more or participate in
more sports [1]. In contrast, older couples
with young children/school-age children
may be at the peak of their spending in
terms of home (mortgage), schooling
and clothing, and so have less disposable
income for travel [1]. However, they may
spend much of their free time with their
children in parks/swimming pools etc. [1].
(iii) Award [1] for each valid point made and a
further [1] for the development/extension
of the point. For example:
Some activities such as golf and yachting
require expensive equipment/club fees [1]
and so are the preserve of wealthy people
[1]. Many people in NICs, including
migrant labourers [1] trying to become
better off, may be working long hours or
sending some of their money home to
their family, and so do not have much
time or money to participate in sport and
leisure activities [1].
(b)
Either
The costs of hosting international sporting events
include the financial costs, the strain placed on
transport infrastructure, hotels, water supplies,
etc. by visitors, and the security risks associated
with such games. On the other hand, advantages
include economic spin-offs, a sense of national
unity and the prestige that the city/country
receives. Examples include the London 2016
Olympic and Paralympic Games and the Rio de
Janeiro 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
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Good answers are likely to consider both the costs
and disadvantages of hosting such events. They are
likely to consider that some Games are successful
but others are not. They are likely to consider
different viewpoints, e.g. local residents, residents
from the city as a whole, local business people,
national governments, TNCs that invest in the
Games, as well as residents from other parts/sectors
of the host country.
At Band D (5–6), expect some outlining of the
costs and/or benefits of hosting international
sporting events.
At Band E (7–8), expect either a more detailed
explanation of the costs and/or benefits of hosting
international sporting events, including supporting
evidence, or a structured discussion on the
advantages and benefits to different stakeholders.
At Band F (9–10), expect both.
Or
The geographic impacts of large-scale temporary
events in rural areas include positive and negative
aspects. The negative aspects include traffic
congestion, pollution, litter, discarding of tents,
waste disposal, pressure on resources, noise and
light pollution, and an increase in crime, such
as drug taking. The advantages include creation
of short-term jobs, investment in infrastructure,
increased spending in local businesses, increased
demand for accommodation. Events could include
Glastonbury Festival, UK, and the Blenheim
Triathlon, UK.
Good answers are likely to consider the
disadvantages of hosting such festivals, as well as
the advantages. They are also likely to consider
the stakeholders – tourists, local businesses, local
residents, investors, etc. They may also consider
the time-scale – how long does the event last for?
At Band D (5–6), expect some outlining of the
advantages and disadvantages of hosting large scale
temporary events in rural areas.
At Band E (7–8), expect either more description of
the advantages and disadvantages of hosting large-
scale temporary events in rural areas, supported
with named and located evidence, or a structured
examination of the advantages and disadvantages
of the event to different stakeholders.
At Band F (9–10), expect both.
4_Sample_papers_for_the_website.indd 14
S A M P L E PA P E R S
Option F The geography of food
and health
(a) Award [1] for a correct change and [1] for
development/manipulation of data. For
example:
(i)  Calorie intake from cereals has decreased
by 24.9 percentage points [1], a decrease of
about 25% of the 1969 figure.
(ii) Calorie intake from animal products (meat,
eggs, dairy, fish) has more than tripled [1]
from 6.68% in 1969 to 22.86% in 2009,
representing an increase of over 240% of
the 1969 value [1].
(b) Award [1] for each reason, and a further [1] for
the development of each reason. For example:
As countries develop, the disposable income/
standard of living rises [1] and people can
afford to buy more expensive/exotic foods such
as meat and dairy [1].
As standards of living increase, more people
have greater access to technology, such as
TVs and computers [1], and they are aware
of alternative foodstuffs/drinks, and aspire to
consume them [1].
As countries develop, more households have
fridges and freezers [1], and are able to buy
foods that might otherwise have had a very
limited shelf life [1].
Other factors might include affordability of
different types of cooking utensils, awareness of
a healthier lifestyle, the ability of the country to
import different foods from around the world,
store them and distribute them around the
country.
(c)
Either
Famines refer to long-term decline in the
availability of food in a region. There are many
factors that affect famines, including the length
and severity of drought, population growth,
entitlement to food, access to land, unemployment
and inflation, civil unrest, war, governance,
the power of the media and international relief
organizations. These factors operate in an
interrelated way. The causes of famine are likely to
vary from place to place and time to time.
Good answers are likely to identify a range of
human and physical factors that are responsible for
famine. They are likely to name and date a located
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famine. Good answers are likely to comment on
the spatial and temporal scale of the famine, and its
impacts on people and the economy. Good answers
may discuss the reasons why certain famines fail to
attract much media attention or public support.
At Band D (5–6), expect some outlining of the
causes of famine.
At Band E (7–8), expect either a more detailed
explanation of the causes of famine, with
supporting material, or a critical discussion of the
contribution of physical and human factors to
famines.
At Band F (9–10), expect both.
Or
The epidemiological transition model (ETM)
shows the changes in the disease pattern that a
country experiences as it develops, from “diseases
of poverty” to “diseases of affluence”. In the
early stages of development, diseases of poverty
(infectious diseases) predominate, whereas in the
latter stages, diseases of affluence (degenerative
diseases) predominate. The ETM has some
similarities to the demographic transition model.
However, it is not a predetermined transition; not
all countries will develop in the same way, and so
the disease-pattern that they experience may differ.
Good answers are likely to illustrate the ETM in
named countries and include some description
of their main diseases experienced. They will
probably recognize that both types of disease are
likely to be found in all countries. Good answers
may recognize that the ETM is not a dichotomous
either/or, but more of a continuum along which
countries tend to move. Good answers are also
likely to recognize that the ETM is descriptive
rather than explanatory. It suggests that as
countries develop and their population ages, the
diseases that they experience will change, so the
ETM may help predict and plan for future health-
care needs should current conditions continue.
At Band D (5–6), expect some outlining of the
ETM.
At Band E (7–8), expect either a more detailed
explanation of the ETM, with the use of supporting
evidence, or a more structured examination of the
usefulness of the ETM.
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S A M P L E PA P E R S
At Band F (9–10), expect both.
Option G Urban environments
(a) (i) Africa and Asia. [1]
(ii) Oceania. [1]
(iii) Award [1] for the identification of
a reason and a further [1] for the
development/exemplification of that
reason. For example:
Rates of urbanization may vary because
some countries are starting at a low level
of urbanization [1] and so the potential
for urbanization is greater, e.g. in Africa.
Some countries have increased rates
of urbanization as they have larger
populations [1] and there is greater rural–
urban migration, e.g. in Asia [1].
(b) Award [1] for each valid reason, and a further
[1] for the development/exemplification. For
example:
The concentrations of industries and services
in central areas [1] leads to the release of heat
which warms up the atmosphere, especially at
night and during high-pressure conditions [1].
Many of the buildings are old and made of
brick [1]. This absorbs heat during the day and
releases it at night, thereby heating central
areas [1]; the concentration of vehicles,
including mass urban transit systems, releases
more heat within the central areas [1] thereby
reinforcing the heat island effect [1]; the
absence of trees and open spaces [1] means
that there is less of a cooling effect [1].
(c)
Either
The informal economy is the unregulated, untaxed
economic sector (black market/lower economic
circuit). Many of the jobs are small-scale and
labour intensive such as maids, gardeners, shoe
cleaners, hawkers (people selling fruit on the
roadside), cleaners, prostitutes and taxi drivers.
The advantages of the informal sector include
ease of access, small-scale nature, and the lack of
skills and specialist training required. The informal
economy may be a very valuable way of relieving
the economic problems of the poor by using their
energy and initiative. However, employment
in the informal sector is low paid, irregular and
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insecure. There are alternatives to the informal
economy, e.g. TNC investment, job creation in
the formal sector, public works programmes and
benefits. However, these can be costly and many
governments are unable to provide these/TNC
investment does not guarantee that poor people
will be employed.
Good answers are likely to describe the benefits of
the informal economy, and to describe the range of
activities included in the informal economy. They
are likely to discuss some of the disadvantages of
the informal economy. Good answers may also
comment on the alternatives to the informal sector
for reducing poverty in urban areas.
At Band D (5–6), expect some description of the
informal economy.
At Band E (7–8 marks), expect either a more
detailed explanation of the informal economy,
including supporting examples, or a critical
discussion of the alternatives to the informal
economy/factors that limit the impact of the
informal economy.
At Band F (9–10), expect both.
Or
Deindustrialization is the long-term decline in
employment in the manufacturing sector. It refers
to a loss of jobs. It has a number of social and
demographic consequences such as increased
poverty, increased ill-health, high pension and
social-welfare costs (unemployment benefits),
people living below the poverty line, dependence
on food banks, out-migration, lack of population
to support services, an increase in crime and
prostitution, and increased inequalities between
those in work and those who have lost their jobs.
Good answers are likely to cover a range of
consequences of deindustrialization. They are likely
to identify social consequences and demographic
consequences, and show how they are interrelated.
Good answers are likely to illustrate the points
with named and located examples. Good answers
may examine the scale of deindustrialization in
terms of spatial scale and change over time.
At Band D (5–6), expect some outlining of
the social and demographic consequences of
deindustrialization.
At Band E (7–8), expect either a more detailed
explanation of the social and demographic
4_Sample_papers_for_the_website.indd 16
S A M P L E PA P E R S
consequences of deindustrialization, or a structured
examination of the factors influencing the scale of
deindustrialization.
At Band F (9–10), expect both.
Unit 1 Changing population
(a) (i) A ward [1] for each valid point. For
example:
South Sudan has a very high proportion
of people under the age of 15 years [1]
and a small proportion over the age of 64
years[1]. South Sudan has a high birth
rate [1] and also a high death rate [1].
Japan has a very low proportion under
the age of 15 years [1] a low birth rate [1
mark], a high proportion over the age of
64 [1] and a low death rate [1].
(ii) Award [1] for each valid reason and
a further [1] for the development/
exemplification. For example:
Japan is an HIC, with high levels of health
care and good levels of nutrition/access
to water and health care [1] and so death
rates are very low [1]. South Sudan is an
LIC, where many of the people work on
farms, and so they have many children
to help work on the farm [1]/look after
their parents in old age/there is limited
availability of old age pensions [1].
(iii) Award [1] for the identification of
a reason, and a further [1] for the
development/exemplification. For
example:
The population pyramids suggest that the
population of the two countries is similar
in absolute size [1] or that South Sudan
has many more young people than Japan
[1] whereas the population of Japan is
about 10 times bigger than that in South
Sudan, so there may not be as marked
a difference in the absolute numbers of
young people in both countries [1].
(b) (i) Middle income countries are defined as
having an annual income of between
$1,025 and $12,475 per annum (lower
middle income is $1,025–$4,035 while
upper middle income is $4,036–$12,475).
(ii) Award [1] for each valid point, and
reserve [1] for quantification. For
example:
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 There are major declines in the proportion
of the world’s middle income in Europe
and North America, whereas the main
area of growth is in Asia [1]; India is
projected to make the largest increase in
Middle Income population, up from 8% of
the world’s total to 29% [1]; China’s share
of the world’s middle income is set to
rise from 16% to 20%; the USA’s share is
projected to fall from 10% to 4% [1], and
Japan from 5% to 2% [1].
(iii) Award [1] for each valid point, up to a
maximum of [3] for just advantages or
just disadvantages. For example:
It shows major changes very clearly/it
is easy to see how the larger countries/
regions/middle-income populations
have changed [1]; it shows clearly the
percentages of the world’s middle-income
population in each group [1]; however,
smaller countries/populations are not
shown individually [1]; shading is difficult
to make out as there are too many
categories [1]; the technique is not very
visual/spatial [1]; it does not lend itself to
geographic/spatial conclusions [1].
(c)
Either
A megacity is a city with a population of over 10
million people. For individuals, megacities offer
the prospects of a job, a home and an opportunity
to improve their standard of living and quality
of life. For some, migration to megacities does
improve their standard of living, but for others
migration may result in unemployment or
underemployment, poor-quality housing and the
risk of many environmental hazards. For societies,
having large numbers of people in close proximity
may make it easier to provide housing and health
care for example, but if there are too many people,
the provision of such services is inadequate.
Megacity growth is associated with expansion
of the built area, increased traffic congestion, air
pollution and declining water quality.
Good answers are likely to describe the advantages
and disadvantages of megacities. They are likely
to differentiate between individuals and societies.
Good answers are likely to compare the growth
of megacities in NICs with the decline of some
4_Sample_papers_for_the_website.indd 17
S A M P L E PA P E R S
megacities in HICs. Good answers are likely to
consider the factors that influence the growth/
decline of megacities.
At Band D (5–6), expect some outlining of the
advantages and/or disadvantages of megacities.
At Band E (7–8), expect either a more detailed
explanation of the advantages and disadvantages of
megacities, or a critical discussion of the advantages
and disadvantages in relation to individuals and
societies.
At Band F (9–10), expect both.
Or
Gender equality policies aim to reduce inequalities
between men and women and/or boys and girls.
Anti-trafficking aims to reduce the trafficking of
people between and within countries. Measures
to reduce gender inequalities include attempts to
improve female literacy, better access for women to
health care, greater economic opportunities, better
access to finance and an end to forced marriage/
violence within the household. Measures to reduce
trafficking include increasing public awareness,
registration of all migrants, and seizing of assets of
known traffickers. There have been mixed results
for gender-equality – Kerala, India has shown some
success in improving gender equality, but there are
also areas in which gender inequality has persisted.
Measures to target anti-trafficking have had limited
success.
Good answers are likely to describe policies for
gender equality and/or anti-trafficking. They are
likely to have supporting evidence. Good answers
are likely to examine the reasons (power/scale/
possibilities) for ongoing gender inequality and
trafficking.
At Band D (5–6), expect some outlining of policies
to reduce gender inequalities and/or trafficking of
people.
At Band E (7–8), expect either more description
of policies to reduce gender inequalities and/
or trafficking of people, with supporting details,
or a structured examination of the factors that
influence the success or otherwise of the policies
(power/possibilities/scale).
At Band F (9–10), expect both.
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Unit 2 Global climate – vulnerability and
resilience
(a) (i) CO2 [1].
(ii) Cloud reflective effect [1].
(iii) Award [1] for each valid point. For
example:
Total net human activities are larger
(>1.5 watts/m2) compared with total
natural influences, i.e. solar output (about
0.1 watts/m2), and also have a greater
range of estimates (i.e. between about
0.5 watts/m2 and 2.5 watts/m2) compared
with a range of about <0.1–0.3 watts/m2
for solar output.
(iv) Award [1] for each valid point. For
example:
Net human influences have a greater
impact because of population increase
leading to the consumption of more
resources [1], the increase in standard of
living consuming more fossil fuels [1],
whereas for natural sources there is only
one source, solar output [1].
(v) Award [1] for each valid explanation
and a further [1] for development/
exemplification. For example:
Global dimming has a cooling effect
on the Earth’s atmosphere [1]. There
are at least two timescales with global
dimming, namely short-term cycles lasting
less than a decade following volcanic
eruptions and long-term changes related
to anthropogenic sources of pollution [1].
Natural particles in clean air provide
condensation nuclei for water. Polluted
air contains far more particles than
clean air and therefore provides many
more sites that water can bind to [1].
The droplets formed tend to be smaller
than natural droplets, which means
that polluted clouds contain many more
smaller water droplets than naturally
occurring clouds [1]. Lots of small water
droplets reflect more sunlight than fewer
larger droplets, so polluted clouds reflect
far more light back into space, thus
preventing the Sun’s heat from getting
through to the Earth’s surface [1]. Water
distributed around large natural particles
forms a few large droplets with moderate
4_Sample_papers_for_the_website.indd 18
S A M P L E PA P E R S
reflectivity, which eventually fall as rain.
The same amount of water distributed
around small polluting particles forms
many small droplets with increased
reflectivity but does not fall as rain [1].
(b) (i) Adaptation refers to any initiative and/
or measure to reduce the vulnerability
of human and natural systems to climate
change.
(ii) Award [1] for each valid point and
a further [1] for its development/
exemplification. For example:
Mangrove swamps/forests are located
in the intertidal zone, so they absorb
incoming wave energy [1]. In terms of
extreme weather, e.g. tropical cyclones,
they reduce the impacts of high winds [1].
(iii)  Award [1] for each valid point and
a further [1] for its development/
exemplification. For example:
New plant varieties may be genetically
engineered so that they are adapted to
drought and heat – and so are better
suited for the altered conditions [1].
Alternatively, natural species that are able
to thrive in the changed conditions may
be used [1].
(iv)  Award [1] for each valid point and
a further [1] for its development/
exemplification. For example:
Land-use zoning leads to more vulnerable
buildings (e.g. schools, hospitals, domestic
residences) being located in safe areas [1]
whereas less important land uses (e.g.
recreation grounds and conservation
areas) may be in areas that are affected [1]
– conservation areas and nature reserves
may contain species that are adapted to be
resilient to flooding, for example, and may
act as a flood relief measure [1]. Following
building codes ensures that buildings are
made to withstand events up to a certain
level, e.g. a 50-year flood, or a 10 m wave
caused by a tropical storm/tsunami [1].
(v)  Award [1] for each valid point and
a further [1] for its development/
exemplification. For example:
Energy, transport and/or waste could be
improved to reduce water use [1], use
less greenhouse gases in their production/
running of the system [1], e.g. more
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energy could be produced from renewable
sources [1], greater use of public transport
[1] and greater use of recycled water/
desalination [1].
(c)
Either
Climate mitigation strategies involve the reduction
and/or stabilization of greenhouse gas (GHG)
emissions and their removal from the atmosphere.
Mitigation strategies to reduce GHGs in general
may include: reducing energy consumption,
reducing emissions of nitrous oxides and methane
from agriculture, using alternatives to fossil fuels
and geo-engineering. Strategies to remove carbon
dioxide from the atmosphere include protecting
and enhancing carbon sinks through land
management, using biomass as a fuel source, using
carbon capture and storage (CCS) and enhancing
carbon dioxide absorption by the oceans.
Good answers are likely to describe a range of
mitigation strategies. They are likely to examine
the benefits of mitigation (pro-active) as compared
to adaptation (reactive, i.e. responding to the
changes). Good answers may examine why
mitigation is more difficult to achieve than
adaptation, e.g. economic cost, changes in lifestyle,
loss of economic competitiveness.
At Band D (5–6), expect some outlining of climate
mitigation techniques.
At Band E (7–8), either a more detailed explanation
of climate mitigation techniques, including support,
or a structured examination of the difficulties
facing attempts to develop mitigation strategies.
At Band F (9–10), expect both.
Or
Some population groups are more vulnerable to
climate change than others. These include the
very young, the elderly, those with disabilities, the
poor, minority groups, refugees and indigenous
people. Carers, who are generally women, are also
vulnerable because of the burden of caring for
the young, the elderly and the sick. Single-parent
households are often very vulnerable to climate
change as they may combine a number of at-risk
characteristics, such as age, gender and poverty.
Some locations are more at risk than others. These
include low-lying islands, river mouths and valleys,
coastal areas and regions that derive their water
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S A M P L E PA P E R S
supplies from mountain glaciers. Many islands in
the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean are among
the areas most vulnerable to climate change risks.
These include the Kiribati, Tuvalu and Marshall
Islands, the Maldives, and Antigua and Nevis in the
Caribbean.
Good answers are likely to consider the types of
people that are more vulnerable to climate change.
They are likely to consider the types of locations
that are at risk from climate change. Good answers
may consider the types of occupations at risk
from climate change (e.g. farming and tourism)
and so people involved in those activities may be
at risk from climate change. Good answers may
consider that levels of well-being will influence an
individual’s ability to cope with climate change.
At Band D (5–6), expect some outlining of the
types of people most at risk from climate change.
At Band E (7–8), expect either a more detailed
explanation of the types of people most at risk from
climate change, including supporting examples, or
a critical discussion of the demographic, locational,
economic and social factors that increase
vulnerability to climate change.
At Band F (9–10), expect both.
Unit 3 Global resource consumption and
security
(a) (i) T
 he ecological footprint is the hypothetical
area of land required by a society, a
group or an individual to fulfil all of their
resource needs and assimilate all of their
wastes. It is measured in global hectares
(gha) [1 mark].
(ii)  Award [1] for any two components. For
example:
The main components of the ecological
footprint calculation include bioproductive
land, bioproductive sea, energy land, built
land, biodiversity land and non-productive
land [2].
(iii) The ecological footprint of high-income
countries is higher than that of low-
income countries, and also varies in terms
of content [1]. A much higher proportion
of the ecological footprint in HICs
comes from carbon [1], e.g. the USA’s
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EFP in 2014 was over 12 gha whereas
Bangladesh’s was less than 1 gha [1].
(iv) Award [1] for each valid point and
a further [1] for its development/
exemplification. For example:
The use of public transport as opposed
to private cars will reduce a country’s
ecological footprint [1], e.g. the use of
trams in San Francisco [1]. Other valid
points include reducing the amount of
resources it uses [1], recycling resources
[1], reusing resources [1], improving the
efficiency of resource use [1], reducing
the amount of pollution it produces [1],
improving technology to increase carrying
capacity [1], reducing its population to
reduce resource use [1], using technology
to increase carrying capacity and/or using
technology to intensify land use [1].
(b) (i) 85% [1]
(ii) 50% [1]
(iii) The reuse of phones increases from 6% to
19% [1]
(iv) Award [1] for each valid suggestion. For
example:
They may be passed down to family
members [1]; they may be handed in to
a charity [1]; they may be used for spare
parts/to fix older phones [1].
(v)  Award [1] for each valid point and
a further [1] for its development/
exemplification. For example:
There is less that ends up as landfill [1]
so less space is required/less methane is
produced in decomposition [1]; recycling
and reuse reduces the need for new raw
materials [1]; recycling of mobile phones
is likely to take place close to the market
(in HICs) so transport costs are reduced
as most mobile phones are made in NICs
[1]; recycling and reuse may create more
jobs in HICs [1]; refurbishment requires
a smaller volume of raw materials than a
complete new product [1].
(c)
Either
Climate change could influence the water-food-
energy nexus in many contrasting ways. In some
areas it may reduce agricultural productivity,
whereas in other areas it may increase it. Water
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supplies will diminish in some areas and increase
in others. The demand for energy will also
change. Climate change is expected to increase
the frequency of climate-related shocks and these
will have an impact on food, water and energy
supplies. Moreover, due to their interconnections
and interdependence, an impact on one part will
have an influence on the other two.
Good answers are likely to consider how the nexus
operates. They are also likely show some of the
potential changes related to climate change. Good
answers may examine the scale of climate change.
Good answers are likely to examine other factors
that may affect the nexus, including population
growth and rising standards of living.
At Band D (5–6), expect some outlining of
the potential impact of climate change on the
interaction of the water-food-energy nexus.
At Band E (7–8), expect either a more detailed
explanation of the potential impact of climate
change on the interaction of the water-food-
energy nexus, with supporting evidence, or an
examination of the scale of climate change and
other factors that may influence the nexus.
At Band F (9–10), expect both.
Or
The neo-Malthusian viewpoint is that the growth
of the world’s population will lead to a depletion of
the world’s resources, leading to famine, poverty,
rising inequalities and, eventually, declining
population, unless something is done about it.
Ant-Malthusians suggest that rising numbers of
people lead to new methods, and that people
will find a solution to the growing demand for
resources. For example, people have increased food
production in many ways. These include draining
marshlands, reclaiming land from the sea, cross-
breeding of cattle, growing high-yielding crop
varieties, terracing steep slopes, growing crops in
greenhouses, using more sophisticated irrigation
techniques such as hydroponics, growing new
foods such as soya, making artificial fertilizers,
farming native crop and animal species, and fish
farming.
Good answers are likely to discuss the neo-
Malthusian view of population and resources
as well as the anti-Malthusian approach. They
are likely to use supporting material to illustrate
their points. Good answers may consider different
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timescales, and the impacts of policies to reduce
consumption of resources.
At Band D (5–6), expect some outlining of the neo-
Malthusian view of population and resources.
At Band E (7–8), expect either a more detailed
explanation of the neo-Malthusian view of
population and resources, with supporting details,
or a structured discussion of alternative viewpoints
concerning population and resource consumption.
At Band F (9–10), expect both.
Unit 4 Power, places and networks
(a) The focus can be on any communications
infrastructure – phone, internet, transport. The
likely focus will feature:
(i) number of users/routes
(ii) changes in the number of users/routes
over time
(iii) global variations in the number of users/
density of infrastructure
(iv) changes in technology over time leading
to changes in size, speed, reliability,
functionality.
Good answers are likely to analyse variations
in the use of one or more communications
infrastructure and changes over time. They
may examine the factors that influence how
and why the infrastructure has changed.
At Band C (4–6), expect some outlining of
variations in the use of one or more global
communications network.
At Band D (7–9), expect either a more detailed
description of variations in the use of one or
more global communications infrastructure/
network, including supporting evidence, or a
structured analysis of the factors that explain
the trends in one or more communications
network/infrastructure.
At Band E (10–12), expect both.
(b) Multi-government organizations (MGOs)
include trading blocs and economic unions
such as the EU, NAFTA, ASEAN and BRICS as
well as organizations such as the World Bank,
IMF, G7/8, OPEC, OECD etc. MGOs generally
reduce barriers to global interactions, such as
the movement of goods, people and finances.
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However:
●● there has been a rise in nationalist/protectionist
policies in recent years, e.g. in the USA, UK,
France)
●● there has been resistance to the reforms
suggested by the IMF, e.g. in Greece, and the
rejection of SAPs
●● during the Syrian refugee crisis, many
European countries closed their borders
●● MGOs were absent from the crisis in Syria, and
so they were not perceived as having much
influence/power.
Good answers are likely to show how MGOs
influence global interactions. They are likely
to illustrate the benefits of global interactions
with specific supporting evidence. Good answers
are likely to be balanced, and show how MGO
activities may lead to inequalities.
At Band C (5–8), expect some outlining of the role
of MGOs.
At Band D (9–12), expect either a more detailed
description of the role of MGOs, with supporting
evidence, or a balanced discussion of the role
of MGOs in relation to global interactions (i.e.
positive and negative impacts of MGO activities).
At Band E (13–16), expect both.
Unit 5 Human development and
diversity
(a) Some countries control their own resources,
but many poor countries do not have the
funds/equipment/expertise to develop
their own resources. For example, mining
is an expensive activity requiring specialist
equipment. Other resources, e.g. fish or land
for farming, require less specialized equipment
but may also be used by external countries
either legally or illegally, e.g. land grabs and
fishing. Most countries will want to benefit
from their own resources – although corruption
may limit how far the benefits are shared out.
Good answers are likely to describe the
benefits of countries using their own resources
(resource nationalism). They are likely to
outline reasons why countries might not
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be able to develop their resources, e.g. lack
of funds, equipment, technology, skills, etc.
Good answers may consider factors such
as corruption, political ties (tied aid), debt
repayments, alternative claims for funds e.g.
health care, education, etc.
At Band C (4–6), expect some outlining of
the benefits for a country of control over their
resources.
At Band D (7–9), expect either a more detailed
description of the benefits for a country
of control over their resources, including
supporting details, or a structured discussion
of the factors that reduce a country’s ability to
have control over its resources.
At Band E (10–12), expect both.
(b) The world’s built environment includes a
great variety of structures such as cities,
farms, dams, transport systems, holiday
resorts, sports stadiums, etc. There are many
similarities in the built environment around
the world, e.g. many cities have skyscrapers,
science parks, pedestrianized shopping malls,
out-of-town shopping centres, similar global
brands e.g. hotel chains, fast-food outlets and
retail companies. Other built environments
are equally valid, e.g. farm buildings in
industrialized commercial farming, hotels in
coastal resorts.
Good answers are likely to consider the
convergence of building in a variety of
locations. They are likely to consider the
unique identity of individual cities/built
environment. Good answers may consider the
reasons for increased homogeneity in the built
environment, e.g. improvements in ICT, global
flows of people and ideas, TNC desire to locate
in new markets, increased standard of living
and desire to be part of a global culture, and
globalization of economic activity, culture and
political activity.
At Band C (5–8), expect some outlining of the
ways in which the world’s built environment is
becoming more similar.
At Band D (9–12), expect either a more
balanced description of the ways in which the
world’s built environment is becoming more
similar, with detailed support, or a structured
discussion of the reasons for changes in the
built environment.
At Band E (13–16), expect both.
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Unit 6 Global risks and resilience
(a) Crowdsourcing is the process of sourcing
ideas, services, finances and information from
the public via the internet in order to benefit
from the collective abilities of a large group of
people. Crowdsourcing is a high-technology,
bottom-up approach to empowering
communities around the world. Crowdsourcing
has many advantages – it empowers people;
it uses people as resources; it can help with
fund-raising. It also has drawbacks – the aims
may be misinterpreted; there is no guarantee of
success; insufficient funds may be raised; there
is no guarantee that all interested parties will
realize that a project exists.
Good answers are likely to describe a
number of advantages and disadvantages
of crowdsourcing. Good answers are
likely to provide named examples of how
crowdsourcing has benefited a project. Good
answers may consider factors that influence the
success of crowdsourcing – alternative sources
of information/capital; the scale of the project;
the need for access to ICT. Good answers may
discuss the availability/reliability of ICT in an
area/different population members.
At Band C (4–6), expect a brief description
of the advantages and/or disadvantages of
crowdsourcing.
At Band D (7–9), expect either a more detailed
description of the advantages and disadvantages
(do not expect balance) of crowdsourcing, with
supporting details, or a structured examination
of the factors that influence the success or
otherwise of crowdsourcing.
At Band E (10–12), expect both.
(b) There are many environmental risks
associated with global interactions, e.g. acid
rain, carbon footprints, food miles, oil and
chemical pollution, waste dumping, air and
noise pollution, degradation of landscape,
eutrophication, reduction in biodiversity,
and water pollution. Environmental risks are
created in the production of a product, its
transport, storage, sale and use.
Good answers are likely to describe a range
of environmental risks associated with global
interactions. Good answers are likely to suggest
reasons why people continue to support
global interactions (cheap products, year-
round supply, standardized products) despite
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the environmental risks that they cause.
Good answers are likely to examine trends in
environmental risks, e.g. the decline of acid
rain in some regions but its increase in other
regions.
At Band C (5–8), expect some outlining of
some environmental risks caused by global
interactions.
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At Band D (9–12), expect either a more
detailed description of some environmental
risks caused by global interactions, including
supporting details, or a structured examination
of the factors that promote global interactions
(consumerism, cost, affordability, etc.).
At Band E (13–16), expect both.
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