2016 HKDSE

Geography Paper 1
Level 4 Exemplar 2 & Comments
 Paper 1 Level 4 exemplar 2 comments

- In Question 2, the candidate used suitable geographical terminology to describe the locational advantages of iron
and steel plant A, as well as the constraints on the development of iron and steel plant B. He/she explained the
reasons for the development of iron and steel plant B after the 2nd 5-Year Plan. He/she also explained
accurately how the new furnace technology and the increase in the amount of imported iron ore and coal may
affect the location of the iron and steel industry in China. He/she explained in general terms the changing of the
location of iron and steel plant B to the coastal region.
- In Question 4, the candidate described the climatic conditions of the tropical rainforest and explained clearly their
influence on the characteristics of vegetation. He/she described briefly the negative impact of human
interference on the physical environment of tropical rainforest. He/she used some geographical terminology to
evaluate the effectiveness of selective logging in conserving tropical rainforest.
- In the short essay question, the candidate explained only generally how human activities increase the
concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. He/she needed to focus on the importance of the burning of
fossil fuels in raising the concentration of greenhouse gases. In the second part of the question, he/she provided
a general discussion on the cooperation between more developed countries and less developed countries in
helping to reduce carbon dioxide emissions.
2016 HKDSE
Geography Paper 2
Level 4 Exemplar 2 & Comments
 Paper 2 Level 4 exemplar 2 comments

- The candidate demonstrated good knowledge of the curriculum and communicates his/her knowledge
and understanding with accurate use of geographical terminology.
- In the structured question, the candidate interpreted and analysed the information given accurately and logically.
He/she provided an accurate explanation of the challenges encountered by industries in the Zhujiang Delta Region
and suggested related measures to tackle the problems. He/she would have gained a higher score if he/she
had explained in more detail the significance of the policy of “Emptying the Cage for New Birds” in changing the
industrial pattern.
- In the short essay question, the candidate demonstrated evaluative and inferential skills in examining the impact of
drought on farming and industries in North China. He/she gave an appropriate description of the importance of
water to agriculture and industries with competent and accurate use of a range of geographical terminology.
However, he/she described the measures of water resource management rather briefly. He/she needed to provide
a more in-depth evaluation with actual examples for a higher score.