Synoptic thoughts
Annotation of text and photos
Relevancy
Trends in data (up/downs/variables) and anomalies - try to avoid starting at the beginning of time period and describing the change at each time interval step-by-step
Description of patterns/distributions on maps -general patterns (even/uneven) then details, anomalies or obvious inconsistencies
Sketches -maps or diagrams -not too likely but in other parts of the exam - remember to refer to it in the text - good for section ‘B’ - no credit for copying -but sketches that have selected relevant elements will gain credit
Quality answers for section A
Use all the material
Use personal words don’t copy chunks of text and if you do comment on it ie how this relates to question or ‘in other words’
Obey command word absolutely try not to explain when asked to describe -lose marks and waste time
Describe = what it is like
Explain = give reasons for it being like it is
Examine = describe, explain and comment
Assess = how significant/ important it is
Identify = what it is
Comment on = give some personal observations/views
Critically evaluate 9 or examine) = discuss the arguments in favour of and against an idea using evidence -deliver a judgement
To what extent = in what ways is something true and what ways is it not, overall, is it more or less true or vice-versa?
To get top marks
Make links between resources and explicitly cross reference = as item 1
Suggests, the pattern of landuse shown in photo ‘B’ might be explained by.
Apply understanding of processes from other parts of the specification.= the delta, formed by deposition of sediment as the river meets the sea..
Apply knowledge so if talking about green belt around B’ham you can include other towns ‘belts to prove success or not of the scheme or new 3 gorges can be commented on in the light of other dam project successes.
Use ‘therefore’ and ‘however’ to qualify comments. When you are not certain use words like ‘partial’ or ‘tentatively’ when conclusions are not certain
Look at mark allocation.
To get top marks.
Wide ranging and accurate knowledge
Thorough explanation and balanced discussions of all the dimensions of the question.
Understanding of the concepts which are used to support argument.
Detailed examples, together with a range o diagrams, maps and data used appropriately.
Comparisons of scale, in space and time, to support your discussion.
Good English -express ideas clearly - watch SPAG
Section B
Critically examine the view that the varying impact of hazards is determined more by human behaviour than it is by the strength of the hazard event.
Assess the view that most human modification of the environment is indirect and unintentional.
Examine the concept of sustainable development as a strategy for the exploitation and management of the natural world.
Describe and explain the impact of new forms of communications and employment on rural and urban communities.