LEVEL 1/2 CERTIFICATE
Geography
8031/1 − Dynamic Physical World
Mark scheme
8031
June 2015
Version 1.0 Final
Mark schemes are prepared by the Lead Assessment Writer and considered, together with the
relevant questions, by a panel of subject teachers. This mark scheme includes any amendments
made at the standardisation events which all associates participate in and is the scheme which was
used by them in this examination. The standardisation process ensures that the mark scheme covers
the students’ responses to questions and that every associate understands and applies it in the same
correct way. As preparation for standardisation each associate analyses a number of students’
scripts: alternative answers not already covered by the mark scheme are discussed and legislated for.
If, after the standardisation process, associates encounter unusual answers which have not been
raised they are required to refer these to the Lead Assessment Writer.
It must be stressed that a mark scheme is a working document, in many cases further developed and
expanded on the basis of students’ reactions to a particular paper. Assumptions about future mark
schemes on the basis of one year’s document should be avoided; whilst the guiding principles of
assessment remain constant, details will change, depending on the content of a particular
examination paper.
Further copies of this Mark Scheme are available from aqa.org.uk
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MARK SCHEME – LEVEL 1/2 CERTIFICATE IN GEOGRAPHY – 8031/1 – JUNE 2015
GENERAL GUIDANCE FOR GEOGRAPHY EXAMINERS
Quality of Written Communication
Where candidates are required to produce extended written material in English, they will be
assessed on the quality of written communication.
Candidates will be required to:
•
•
•
present relevant information in a form and style that suits its purpose;
ensure that text is legible and that spelling, punctuation and grammar are accurate;
use specialist vocabulary where appropriate.
Levels Marking - General Criteria
Where answers are assessed using a level of response marking system the following general
criteria should be used.
Level 1: Basic
Knowledge of basic information
Simple understanding
Little organisation; few links; little or no detail; uses a limited range of specialist terms
Reasonable accuracy in the use of spelling, punctuation and grammar
Text is legible
Level 2: Clear
Knowledge of accurate information
Clear understanding
Organised answers, with some linkages; occasional detail/exemplar; uses a good range of
specialist terms where appropriate
Considerable accuracy in spelling, punctuation and grammar
Text is legible
Level 3: Detailed
Knowledge of accurate information appropriately contextualised and/or at correct scale
Detailed understanding, supported by relevant evidence and exemplars
Well organised, demonstrating detailed linkages and the inter-relationships between factors
Clear and fluent expression of ideas in a logical form; uses a wide range of specialist terms
where appropriate
Accurate use of spelling, punctuation and grammar
Text is legible
Level 3 does not always equate to full marks, a perfect answer is not usually expected,
even for full marks
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MARK SCHEME – LEVEL 1/2 CERTIFICATE IN GEOGRAPHY – 8031/1 – JUNE 2015
Annotation of Scripts
One tick equals 1 mark, except where answers are levels marked (where no ticks should be used).
Each tick should be positioned in the part of the answer which is thought to be creditworthy.
Where an answer is levels marked the examiner should provide evidence of the level achieved by
means of annotating ‘L1’, ‘L2’ or ‘L3’ in the left hand margin.
The consequent mark within this level should appear in the right-hand margin.
Ticks must not be used where an answer is levels marked.
Examiners should add their own brief justification for the mark awarded e.g. Just L3, detail and
balance here.
Where an answer fails to achieve Level 1, 0 (zero) marks should be given.
General Advice
It is important to recognise that many of the answers shown within this mark scheme are only
exemplars. Where possible, the range of accepted responses is indicated, but because many
questions are open-ended in their nature, alternative answers may be equally creditworthy.
The degree of acceptability is clarified through the standardisation process and subsequently by
telephone with the team leader as necessary.
Diagrams are legitimate responses to many questions and should be credited as appropriate.
However, contents which duplicate written material or vice versa should not be credited.
Quality of Written Communication (QWC) is part of the award of marks in levels marked answers
only. In levels marked answers the quality of the geography is assessed and a level and mark
awarded according to the geography. As is sometimes the case, the geography may be sound at
a particular level but the examiner may not be sure as to whether there is quite enough to raise the
mark within that level. In this case the examiner should consider the QWC of the answer. QWC
that fulfils the criteria for the level should lead to the rise in the mark but where the QWC does not
fulfil the criteria, the answer should remain at the mark first thought appropriate. In cases where
QWC has been used in the award of marks, the examiner should indicate this with QWC and
arrows that indicate either an upward or downward trend according to its impact on the final award
of the mark.
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MARK SCHEME – LEVEL 1/2 CERTIFICATE IN GEOGRAPHY – 8031/1 – JUNE 2015
1(a)(i)
1(a)(ii)
Destructive (1). Allow convergent, compressional, subductive.
X oceanic plate
Y subduction zone
Z continental plate
2 marks for 2 or 3 correct, 1 mark for 1 correct
1(a)(iii)
Arrows should indicate that the plates are converging (1).
1(a)(iv)
Diagrams can be used to illustrate the text. Fold mountains form along
both destructive and collision plate boundaries, where two plates
converge. As they move towards each other they push layers of
accumulated sediment in the sea between them up into folds. Allow
reference to accumulation of sediment in geosynclines. Credit
explanations that involve destructive margins (oceanic/continental
convergence)
(1 mark)
AO1 – 1
(2 marks)
AO1 – 1
AO2 – 1
(1 mark)
AO2 – 1
(4 marks)
AO1 – 2
AO2 – 2
Level 1 (Basic) 1-2 marks
Simple statements or an incomplete sequence and little reference to
process.
Plates move together. Rocks are squeezed and folded. They are
pushed up.
Level 2 (Clear) 3-4 marks
Linked statements with a full and accurate sequence and reference made
to the processes involved.
Erosion takes place on the continental plates and sediments are laid
down in a geosyncline or between two plates. Convection currents in the
mantle push plates towards each other at a destructive boundary (or
collision) boundary. Compression folds the sediments into mountains.
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MARK SCHEME – LEVEL 1/2 CERTIFICATE IN GEOGRAPHY – 8031/1 – JUNE 2015
1(b)(i)
2x1
Volcanoes form where the two plates move apart (1), and magma
reaches the surface (1). An ocean ridge or rift valley may form (1) along
the constructive boundary where two plates diverge (1).
(2 marks)
AO2 – 1
AO3 – 1
1(b)(ii)
Economic advantages include the money derived from tourism and the
associated employment. The income may be spent on improvements to
services, communications, etc. Geothermal sources of power and
heating reduce the need to import expensive fossil fuels.
(4 marks)
AO2 – 1
AO3 – 3
Climatic disadvantages include the low average temperatures,
particularly in winter, which may affect the growing season and economic
activity. The threat of volcanic activity makes the country hazardous to
live in.
Allow access to the top of Level 2 for at least one advantage and one
disadvantage explained.
Level 1 (Basic) 1-2 marks
Simple statements relying on the source, with little development. May
focus only on the advantages (or disadvantages) of living in Iceland.
Tourists bring money to Iceland and help to provide jobs for the people.
Geothermal energy is used to supply homes and industries with heating
and electricity. The climate is generally cool. Living near to active
volcanoes can be dangerous.
Level 2 (Clear) 3-4 marks
Clear developed statements making full use of the source. Covers both
advantages and disadvantages. Makes the link to living conditions.
The huge rise in the number of tourists visiting Iceland may have
increased employment, with jobs available in hotels, transport, tour
organisations and farming. This may lead to higher living standards as
more money is spent on services. Geothermal energy is used to provide
heating and electricity, which reduces the need to import expensive fossil
fuels. It helps to support the economy, including agriculture and industry.
1(b)(iii)
Some volcanoes occur over hot spots, long distances from plate
boundaries (1). Some may have formed over plate margins, but have
moved over time away from the boundary (1) Along destructive margins
the ocean plate may melt deep in the mantle some distance from the
plate boundary (1).
(1 mark)
AO1 – 1
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1(c)(i)
2 x 1 or 1 x 2
Accept a range of answers, based on the source. There may be
reference to differences in intensity or scale, economic status, level of
development.
(2 marks)
AO1 – 1
AO3 – 1
Italy had the technology and the money to build more earthquake proof
buildings (1) and so less damage was done than in Haiti (1). A better
health service and infrastructure in Italy meant that help could get to the
victims quicker (1) and so fewer people died than in Haiti (1).
1(c)(ii)
Emphasis should be placed on the contrasting responses to earthquakes
in LEDCs and MEDCs. Answers may seek to categorise into short and
long term responses.
(8 marks)
AO1 – 6
AO2 – 2
Level 1 (Basic) 1-4 marks
Simple statements, probably not linked to clear or specific examples or to
idea of short and long term responses. Contrasts not clearly stated.
There was mass panic. Many people left the town. Rescuers dug
through the rubble to find survivors. Houses were rebuilt. Buildings in
LEDCs were not earthquake proof. There were poor communications in
the LEDC. There was less money and poorly organised emergency
services in the LEDC.
Level 2 (Clear) 5-6 marks
Clear statements with some reference to examples. May start to contrast
responses and make short or long term explicit. Must include reference to
case studies.
Kashmir had poor communications, hindering rescue attempts, while in
New Zealand good communications meant people could be evacuated
quickly and avoid them being killed in secondary quakes.
In Kobe, after the 1995 earthquake, many people had to leave their
homes and live in schools. Workers quickly began to knock down unsafe
buildings, put out fires and connect the phone systems. Rebuilding
began after a few weeks. By contrast, in Kashmir, there were long
delays because of the remoteness of the area, but eventually the army
and emergency services arrived to join the rescue effort. Tents were
given out by charities and aid workers arrived from abroad to find
survivors and treat the injured.
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Level 3 (Detailed) 7-8 marks
Clear reference to contrasting examples. Likely to distinguish between
short and long term responses. Information rings true to example
chosen. Answers may focus on the fact that LEDCs have poor
communications, hindering rescue attempts, while in MEDCs, good
communications mean people can be evacuated quickly and avoid being
killed in secondary quakes. LEDCs have less money to spend on
emergency services to care for injured people while emergency services
in MEDCs are well funded and have modern equipment.
In Kobe, Japan, in the short term there was panic and grief. People
searched through the rubble for relatives. Many were evacuated to
schools or lived in makeshift tents. A few days later, emergency services
were able to put out the fires, knock down unsafe property and set up
emergency telephone systems. The earthquake in Haiti, in 2010, was on
a much larger scale and the country was not prepared. Many countries
responded to appeals for aid, pledging funds and dispatching rescue and
medical teams, engineers and support personnel. Communication
systems, air, land, and sea transport facilities, hospitals, and electrical
networks had been damaged by the earthquake, which slowed rescue
and aid efforts. There was much confusion over who was in charge, air
traffic congestion, and problems with prioritisation of flights further
complicated early relief work. Port-au-Prince's morgues were quickly
overwhelmed with many tens of thousands of bodies having to be buried
in mass graves. Delays in aid distribution led to angry appeals from aid
workers and survivors, and looting and sporadic violence were observed.
In Kobe, in the long term, rebuilding began of the houses, railways and
roads that had been destroyed. Much of the infrastructure was repaired
within a year. However, many companies moved permanently away from
the area. By contrast, in Haiti, 6 months after the quake, 98% of the
rubble remained uncleared, some still blocking vital access roads. The
number of people in relief camps of tents and tarps since the quake was
1.6 million, and almost no housing had been built. Most of the camps
had no electricity, running water, or sewage disposal, and the tents were
beginning to fall apart. One year after the earthquake 1 million people
remained displaced.
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MARK SCHEME – LEVEL 1/2 CERTIFICATE IN GEOGRAPHY – 8031/1 – JUNE 2015
2(a)
Answers should refer to the structure of the forest and be based on the
diagram. Emergents are the tallest trees and are usually over 50 metres
tall. The sea of leaves blocking out the sun from the lower layers is the
canopy. Lianas (vines) climb to the canopy to reach this sun light. The
under canopy mainly contains bare tree trunks and lianas. The shrub
layer has the densest plant growth. It contains shrubs and ferns and
other plants needing less light. Saplings of emergents and canopy trees
can also be found here. The forest floor is usually dark and damp. It
contains a layer of rotting leaves.
Credit annotations on the diagram if relevant.
(4 marks)
AO1 – 1
AO2 – 2
AO3 – 1
Level 1 (Basic) 1-2 marks
Basic ideas using the figure. Simple statements.
The tallest trees are emergents. There is a canopy of trees below.
There is little undergrowth.
Level 2 (Clear) 3-4 marks
More detailed use of the source, showing awareness of stratification.
The tallest trees are emergents; about 50 metres tall. Then there is a
canopy of trees at about 30−40 metres high including trees such as teak
and mahogany. Below the canopy there are smaller trees and shrubs
and a fern layer. The forest floor can be quite bare unless at a riverbank
or clearing. Lianas or creepers grow from the floor to the top of the trees.
2(b)(i)
2x1
The largest part of the rainforest is in the northern part of Brazil (1). The
forest extends into several countries including Brazil, Columbia, Ecuador
and Peru (1). The forest lies close to the Equator (1). It extends much
further south of the Equator than to the north (1).
(2 marks)
AO3 – 2
2(b)(ii)
1x2
Allow a range of possible explanations, but credit only one.
(2 marks)
AO1 – 1
AO2 – 1
The rate of deforestation may have decreased because of stricter
government controls (1) on logging companies and farmers (1).
There is greater awareness of the environmental damage caused by
deforestation (1), so regulations have been introduced to limit
deforestation (1).
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MARK SCHEME – LEVEL 1/2 CERTIFICATE IN GEOGRAPHY – 8031/1 – JUNE 2015
2(c)(i)
2nd statement is correct (1).
2(c)(ii)
1x2
Only credit environmental effects if linked to local communities.
(1 mark)
AO3 – 1
(2 marks)
AO1 – 2
Cutting the trees down has meant that some tribes have been forced to
move away from their home areas to special reserves, often leading to
clashes with developers (2). Increased flooding, lack of quality water,
and loss of land to produce their own food causes many locals migrate to
cities that lack infrastructure for them (2). Soil erosion may be caused by
deforestation which can lead to silt entering the lakes, streams, and other
water sources. This can decrease local water quality, contributing to
poor health in the local population (2).
2(c)(iii)
Allow detailed account of one strategy or less detailed account of two or
more. Strategies might include:
(4 marks)
AO1 – 2
AO2 – 2
Agro-forestry - growing trees and crops at the same time. This lets
farmers take advantage of shelter from the canopy of trees. It prevents
soil erosion and the crops benefit from the nutrients from the dead
organic matter.
Selective logging - trees are only felled when they reach a particular
height. This allows young trees a guaranteed life span and the forest will
regain full maturity after around 30-50 years.
Education - ensuring those involved in exploitation and management of
the forest understand the consequences behind their actions.
Afforestation - if trees are cut down, they are replaced to maintain the
canopy.
Forest reserves - areas protected from exploitation.
Monitoring - use of satellite technology and photography to check that
any activities taking place are legal and follow guidelines for
sustainability.
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MARK SCHEME – LEVEL 1/2 CERTIFICATE IN GEOGRAPHY – 8031/1 – JUNE 2015
Level 1 (Basic) 1-2 marks
Brief outline of one or more strategies with little development.
Governments may create forest reserves in which developments are
banned. Replanting trees may help to preserve the forest and its plants
and animals.
Level 2 (Clear) 3-4 marks
Clear description of one or more techniques that help to reduce
deforestation. Allow max marks for one strategy described fully.
Developing alternatives to fuel wood would prevent deforestation as well
as improving the life of indigenous people who often have to travel long
distances to collect firewood.
MEDCs need to alter their terms of trade and reduce the dependency on
tropical hardwoods from the rainforests as well as other produce used for
medicines, foods and chemicals.
Some countries have set up parks to protect their rainforest as in the
Korup National Park in Cameroon. The aim is to preserve their unique
flora and fauna and try to develop ecotourism.
Rubber tapping and collecting fruits such as brazil nuts do not harm the
forest and can bring in more income than cattle ranching.
2(d)(i)
2x1
Most of the world's hot deserts lie between 15° and 35° north and south
of the equator (1). Several are found on the western side of continents,
for example the deserts of South America and southern Africa (1).
The largest (the Sahara) stretches across north Africa into the Middle
East (1). The deserts are found along the tropics. (1)
(2 marks)
AO2 – 1
AO3 – 1
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MARK SCHEME – LEVEL 1/2 CERTIFICATE IN GEOGRAPHY – 8031/1 – JUNE 2015
2(d)(ii)
Case studies should refer to contrasting parts of the world. In MEDCs,
south-west United States is likely to be used; perhaps Western Australia.
Economic activity may focus on water supply and how it is managed,
such as dams along the Colorado, provision for commercial farming –
supplying water to California, possible provision of a power source to
facilitate development – such as tourism; development of tourism on a
large scale, such as Las Vegas, building areas for retirement such as
Sun City in Phoenix, mining activity and industrial development.
(8 marks)
AO1 – 6
AO2 – 2
In LEDCs the most likely case study is the Thar desert - economic
activities include subsistence farming. The desert area is not very fertile.
Soils are quickly drained, and contain few nutrients.
Farming is limited, typically a few animals on more grassy areas and fruit.
Commercial farming has been possible since the building of the Indira
Ghandhi Canal. This irrigates an area near Jodhpur. Wheat and cotton
can be grown. The canal also supplies drinking water. Resources such
as limestone and gypsum (for making plaster) are found in this desert and are valuable for the building industry. Tourism is a growing industry,
and locals can act as guides and provide transport – such as hiring out
camels. Question demands a focus on description but may also make
comparison between MEDCs and LEDCs.
Max Level 1 if only one case study used.
Level 1 (Basic )1-4 marks)
Simple statements, perhaps list like at lower end. Describes ways in
which areas are used. Information is general.
There are dams built. This gives a water supply and hydroelectricity.
Tourism has become important, employing large number of people.
Level 2 (Clear) 5-6 marks)
Developed statements. Economic advantages are described clearly.
Some reference is made to the case studies.
In the deserts of the USA, dams have been built to hold back rivers, like
the Colorado. The Hoover Dam means there is water for big resorts like
Las Vega and irrigation water for commercial farmers. This area attracts
many tourists to go there and lots of jobs have been developed.
There are fewer dams in the Thar desert although commercial farming
has been possible since the building of the Indira Ghandhi Canal. Much
of the land here is used for subsistence farming.
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MARK SCHEME – LEVEL 1/2 CERTIFICATE IN GEOGRAPHY – 8031/1 – JUNE 2015
Level 3 (Detailed) 7-8 marks
Fully developed statements. Clear description of the two contrasting
areas. Specific, detailed reference is made to the case studies.
In the south-west USA there has been much development and
investment in desert areas. Dams have been built to hold back rivers,
like the Colorado. The Hoover Dam and Lake Mead mean there is water
for big resorts like Las Vegas. This allows many tourists to visit and lots
of jobs have been developed. In Phoenix, there are larger retirement
areas and an increasing demand for water. 650 000 people live in the
desert. In addition, the Mojave desert is used by the military, as they test
out airplanes and train troops; hikers and rock climbers; off-road vehicles
- including quad bikes and motorcycles making use of the varied terrain;
solar and wind energy generation, and film makers, attracted by the
scenery. In contrast, the Thar desert in India and Pakistan has fewer
opportunities for economic development. The desert area is not very
fertile. Soils are quickly drained, and contain few nutrients, so farming is
limited, typically a few animals on more grassy areas and fruit. Some
commercial farming has been possible since the building of the Indira
Ghandhi Canal. This irrigates an area near Jodhpur. Wheat and cotton
can be grown. The canal also supplies drinking water. Some mineral
resources such as limestone and gypsum (for making plaster) are found
in this desert – and these are valuable for the building industry. Tourism
is a growing industry, and locals can act as guides and provide transport.
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MARK SCHEME – LEVEL 1/2 CERTIFICATE IN GEOGRAPHY – 8031/1 – JUNE 2015
3(a)(i)
1x2
Features labelled should be associated with the river and/or valley.
No credit for processes. Allow reference to shape of valley sides
e.g. stepped slopes. Both features can be river or valley features. Allow
reference to meander.
(2 marks)
AO2 – 1
AO3 – 1
3(a)(ii)
Credit correct sequence and relevant processes. As water falls, the
softer rock is eroded much more quickly than the harder rock; therefore,
undercutting the harder rock. The hard, overhanging rock eventually
collapses. The collapsed rocks fall into the plunge pool causing more
erosion of the soft rocks and a deeper plunge pool. This goes on
continuously, causing the waterfall to retreat upstream. The waterfall
leaves a steep sided gorge of recession as it retreats.
(4 marks)
AO1 – 3
AO2 – 1
Level 1 (Basic) 1-2 marks
Simple statements. Sequence may be incomplete. There may be little
mention of the processes involved.
The hard rock at the top of the waterfall is undercut. The river erodes the
base. The overhang collapses. Gradually a gorge is formed.
Level 2 (Clear) 3-4 marks
Clear sequence with all stages described. Linked statements. Some
reference to processes involved.
The upper section of the waterfall is composed of a resistant cap rock,
while the lower section is formed from a softer, more erodible rock type.
The harder rock overhangs the softer strata. Over time, the waterfall is
undercut by abrasion and hydraulic action from the highly turbulent flow
in the plungepool at its base. This overhang is unstable as its weight is
unsupported. Erosion is most rapid during powerful flood events. Over
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MARK SCHEME – LEVEL 1/2 CERTIFICATE IN GEOGRAPHY – 8031/1 – JUNE 2015
many centuries, the waterfall may retreat to form a gorge of recession.
3(a)(iii)
Credit any one process. Traction/saltation/suspension/solution.
(1 mark)
AO1 – 1
3(b)(i)
Some reference to the photograph is required. Gently sloping/flat land
(allowing water to collect on lower ground). Allow high/intense rainfall,
lack of trees to absorb water (1).
(1 mark)
AO3 – 1
3(b)(ii)
1x2
Small communities become cut off by the flood waters (1), so people are
unable to reach work or buy supplies from shops (1). Farmers’ incomes
drop because their fields are flooded (1), and they are unable to plant
crops or use the land for grazing (1).
(2 marks)
AO2 – 1
AO3 – 1
3(b)(iii)
1 x 2 or 2 x 1
Building homes on floodplains makes flooding worse (1) because tarmac
and concrete surfaces do not allow water through, so there is more
surface runoff and greater risk of flooding (1). If farmers remove trees or
hedgerows then rain-water cannot be intercepted (1). This allows more
water to reach the ground and increases overland flow (1).
(2 marks)
AO1 – 1
AO2 – 1
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MARK SCHEME – LEVEL 1/2 CERTIFICATE IN GEOGRAPHY – 8031/1 – JUNE 2015
3(c)(i)
Valuable land uses need to be further away from the river (1). The
grazing land is right next to the river and therefore is the most prone to
flooding. If the fields are flooded there would be little danger to humans
or property (1). Settlements are located on the higher land that is less
liable to be flooded (1).
(1 mark)
AO3 – 1
3(c)(ii)
Answers should indicate why the diagram depicts soft engineering. Soft
engineering aims to work with the environment and is more ecologically
sensitive. With floodplain zoning closeness to river determines land use.
Land use close to river may be used for animal grazing. Land furthest
from the river used for 'expensive' land use, such as housing and
industry. The strategy is relatively cheap and does not interfere with
natural flows and river processes.
(4 marks)
AO1 – 1
AO2 – 2
AO3 – 1
Level (Basic) 1-2 marks
Simple statements and may outline soft engineering in general terms.
It is natural. It will not cost much. Flood defences are organised so that
land near the river and often flooded is not built on. It doesn’t interfere
with natural processes.
Level 2 (Clear) 3-4 marks
Linked statements which relate specifically to flood plain zoning as a form
of soft engineering.
The zoning of land uses so that area that are at greatest risk of flooding
have low value uses such as grazing leaving a high value use like
settlement on a higher and, therefore, drier land looks natural in the
landscape and would not appear to be artificially created. It is relatively
cheap because normal planning regulations can be used to ensure that
flood risk is reduced as far as possible. This management scheme would
not interfere with the natural process of the river to reduce the danger of
flooding. In same places there is deliberate flooding of the low value land
so that water does not get to the higher value land uses.
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MARK SCHEME – LEVEL 1/2 CERTIFICATE IN GEOGRAPHY – 8031/1 – JUNE 2015
3(d)
Answers may focus on the effectiveness of dams and reservoirs in
providing a reliable and long lasting supply of water, but also consider the
issues involved in their construction. Advantages are likely to refer to the
success of controlling the flow to supply a predictable source of water for
the local/regional population. Other advantages relate to the use of water
for irrigation of crops, for generation of HEP, flood control and for
leisure/recreation and tourism purposes. There should be some attempt
to classify the issues – the economic benefits of hep for industry, the
income derived by farmers from irrigated crops; social advantages such
as reliable water supply for urban areas, flood control and improvements
to health; environmental advantages such as reduced dependency on
fossil fuels resulting from HEP.
(8 marks)
AO1 – 6
AO2 – 2
Disadvantages are likely to refer to the large cost involved, the impact –
on areas lost beneath lakes/reservoirs and communities and significant
displacement, the impact on the river – such as downstream erosion,
increased salinity due to use for irrigation a number of times, damage to
river ecosystems and impact on people downstream of dams – where
water source may be less. Max Level 1 if no case study.
Level 1 (Basic) 1-4 marks
Understands how a dam works to provide a secure source of water.
Points simple and separate. May refer to various advantages and/or
disadvantages but limited development or link to case study.
Dams can provide protection from floods. Dams can be used for several
purposes as well as water supply. They last a long time. They are costly
to build. They hold back silt. People’s homes may be flooded.
Level 2 (Clear) 5-6 marks
Aware of issues resulting from dam and reservoir construction – starts to
make relevant comment. Refers to case study. Linked statements.
Explains advantages and disadvantges but account may be imbalanced.
The formation of the Lake Nasser reservoir behind the Aswan Dam
created HEP opportunities and controls flooding. Development of
irrigation channels from Lake Nasser takes water from the reservoir to
the nearby desert to make farmland for watering crops. Although there
were some land gains from the building of the dam, there were much
more losses behind the dam where the land was flooded. Many people
were moved and made homeless, as well as losing their farmland.
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MARK SCHEME – LEVEL 1/2 CERTIFICATE IN GEOGRAPHY – 8031/1 – JUNE 2015
Level 3 (Detailed) 7-8 marks
Linked statements showing understanding of both advantages and
disadvantages, with some reference to a case study.
China has just completed construction of the World's largest dam at
Three Gorges. This dam has reduced the risk of flooding downstream of
the dam from one in 10 years to one in a 100. However, flooding prior to
dam construction affected millions of people and ruined farmland
because of clay that was deposited on the fields. The dam will protect
over 25 000ha of farmland. It has a huge series of locks running up one
side to aid navigation, and will generate huge amounts of electricity.
However, 13 million people had to be displaced to make way for the
600km lake that formed behind the dam. They were moved to areas of
higher altitudes with steeper slopes, poorer soils and climate and
consequently a poorer quality of life. Most fertile cropland and areas of
citrus groves were submerged. There are expected to be problems with
the huge amounts of sediment that will be deposited behind the dam.
Waste has also been a problem. The city of Chongqing puts around
1 billion tonnes of untreated waste into the lake very year. The pressure
created by the huge weight of the water in the reservoir behind the dam
could trigger earthquakes, although it is engineered to withstand an
earthquake of 7.0 on the Richter scale). It has diverted money from other
developments. It was one of the most expensive projects in the world,
costing more than $26 billion. So although there have been many
benefits, this large scale project has led to massive socioeconomic and
environmental problems.
4(a)(i)
2x1
Sea level has risen (1) about 20 cm over the past 120 years (1). The rise
has been uneven (1), with a drop of around 2cm in the early 1980s for
example (1).
(2 marks)
AO3 – 2
4(a)(ii)
2x1
Water in the oceans is expanding (1) due to the rising average world
temperature (1). As we release more and more carbon dioxide, nitrous
oxide and methane into the atmosphere (in industrial processes) we
accelerate global warming (1), which leads to the melting of polar ice
caps (1).
(2 marks)
AO1 – 1
AO2 – 1
4(b)(i)
Slumping
(1 mark)
AO2 – 1
4(b)(ii)
Hydraulic power
(1 mark)
AO2 – 1
4(b)(iii)
Removal of beach material (1). Coastal protection up the coast, starving
the beach of sediment here (1). Increased weight of building and
development near the cliff edge (1).
(1 mark)
AO1 – 1
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MARK SCHEME – LEVEL 1/2 CERTIFICATE IN GEOGRAPHY – 8031/1 – JUNE 2015
4(b)(iv)
The reasons may be the result of either or both internal (geology) and
external (weather/marine) factors. Allow explanations that may include
any of the following factors.
(4 marks)
AO1 – 2
AO2 – 2
The fetch of the wave - the longer the fetch of the wave the greater the
erosive energy. The type of beach - beaches dissipate wave energy.
The higher the beach the lower the energy in the wave as it meets the
foot of the cliff. The supply of beach material by longshore drift - if there
is a consistent supply of new beach material by longshore drift this will
help preserve the beach. If this has been stopped, by building groynes
up the coast for example, this can increase the rate of cliff recession as
there is no beach material to absorb the energy of the waves. Vegetation
cover - cliffs with vegetation cover tend to be less resistant to recession
as roots help bind and reinforce the cliff material. Local hydrology - if
there is a large amount of surface run off and infiltration this can increase
the rate of cliff recession. The rate at which debris are removed from the
foot of cliffs - if material that has formed at the foot of cliffs is rapidly
transported away then the cliffs will be quickly exposed to erosion. Cliff
material - the material that cliffs are made of has a significant impact on
cliff recession. Soft boulder clay cliffs recede much quicker than cliffs
formed from sedimentary rock such as chalk, sandstone or limestone.
These types of cliff recede in quite different ways.
Level 1 (Basic) 1-2 marks
Basic lists of factors with little attempt to explain why they contribute to
cliff collapse. Little or no reference to case study location.
The cliff is steep. The sea is eroding the base. Weak types of rock.
There has been a lot of rain.
Level 2 (Clear) 3-4 marks
Linked statements with a named case study. Attempts to explain why
internal and external factors may lead to cliff collapse and specific to the
case study example. If no case study, maximum Level 1.
At Barton on Sea the rocks are very weak, and the sea erodes the base
and so they become unstable and collapse. When it rains a lot, the rocks
get saturated and this means they slump more easily and so the cliff
collapses.
Along the Holderness coastland in Yorkshire the cliffs are made of very
weak boulder clay. This boulder clay is made up of sands and clays
which can be easily washed away and the cliff becomes unstable. The
sea undercuts the base of the cliff and so the cliff collapses. The
Holderness coast faces the North Sea which is subject to severe storms
and when the winds blow from the north east the waves are particularly
destructive.
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MARK SCHEME – LEVEL 1/2 CERTIFICATE IN GEOGRAPHY – 8031/1 – JUNE 2015
4(c)(i)
2x1
The spit extends from the coast where it changes direction, perhaps
along an estuary (1). It is uneven in shape, becoming narrow in the
middle before widening at the end (1). It is curved and hooked in shape
(1). On the seaward side there is a wide sandy beach, in places with
groynes (1). Much of the surface appears to be covered with low
vegetation perhaps grass and shrubs with some trees (1). On the
sheltered side (on the right) the water is shallow and mudflats and a
saltmarsh have developed (1). No credit for explanation.
(2 marks)
AO3 – 2
4(c)(ii)
Answers should include sequence and relevant processes.
(4 marks)
AO1 – 2
AO2 – 1
AO3 – 1
The formation of a spit usually begins due to a change in the direction of
a coastline. The main source of material building up a spit is from
longshore drift which brings material from further down the coast.
Where there is a break in the coastline and a slight drop in energy,
longshore drift will deposit material at a faster rate than it can be removed
and gradually a ridge is built up, projecting outwards into the sea - this
continues to grow by the process of longshore drift and the deposition of
material. A change in prevailing wind direction often causes the end of
spits to become hooked (also known as a recurved lateral).
Water is trapped behind the spit, creating a low energy zone, as the
water begins to stagnate, mud and marshland begins to develop behind
the spit.
Spits may continue to grow until deposition can no longer occur, for
example due to increased depth, or the spit begins to cross the mouth of
a river and the water removes the material faster than it can deposited preventing further build-up.
Level 1 (Basic) 1-2 marks
Simple ideas, limited or partial sequence with little reference to the
processes involved.
A spit grows where there is a river estuary. It develops because of
longshore drift. Many spits have a hooked or curved end because the
wind changes direction. A salt marsh is likely to develop in the sheltered
water behind the spit.
Level 2 (Clear) 3-4 marks
Linked statements showing understanding of the processes involved and
the full sequence of formation. Appropriate geographical terminology.
Longshore drift transports material along the coastline. Spits are formed
in areas of relatively shallow and sheltered water where there is a change
in the direction of the coast. Deposition occurs resulting in the
accumulation of sand and shingle. As the spit continues to grow
outwards, a short term change in wind direction may result in a change in
the direction of the spit forming a curved end. If growing across a river
estuary, the length of the spit will be restricted by the river outlet washing
sediment away. A salt marsh may form in the sheltered, low energy zone
behind the spit.
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MARK SCHEME – LEVEL 1/2 CERTIFICATE IN GEOGRAPHY – 8031/1 – JUNE 2015
4(d)
The scope of the answer depends on the case study selected. Maximum
Level 1 if there is no specific example. Answers may consider a mix of
strategies, both hard and soft engineering, including managed retreat and
do nothing approaches. There should be some consideration of both the
benefits and costs of the relevant strategies.
(8 marks)
AO1 – 6
AO2 – 2
Management techniques might include the following as stated in the
specification, although others may be credit worthy:
Hard engineering – including sea walls, rock armour, groynes.
Soft engineering – including beach nourishment, dune regeneration
and marsh creation.
Managed retreat – coastal realignment and monitoring.
Advantages and disadvantages should be made clear e.g. sea walls
protect the base of cliffs, land and buildings against erosion. Can prevent
coastal flooding in some areas but they are expensive to build. Curved
sea walls reflect the energy of the waves back to the sea. This means
that the waves remain powerful. Over time the wall may begin to erode.
The cost of maintenance is high.
With managed retreat areas of the coast are allowed to erode and flood
naturally. Usually this will be areas considered to be of low value, e.g.
places not being used for housing or farmland.
The advantages are that it encourages the development of beaches (a
natural defence) and salt marshes (important for the environment) and
cost is low. Managed retreat is a cheap option, but people will need to be
compensated for loss of buildings and farmland.
Level 1 (Basic) 1-4 marks
Generalised account of advantages and/or disadvantages. Limited
reference to case study. May drift into description of strategy without
considering the costs and benefits.
Groynes prevent the movement of beach material along the coast by
longshore drift. They allow the build-up of a beach. Beaches are a
natural defence against erosion and an attraction for tourists. They can
be seen as unattractive. They are costly to build and maintain.
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MARK SCHEME – LEVEL 1/2 CERTIFICATE IN GEOGRAPHY – 8031/1 – JUNE 2015
Level 2 (Clear) 5-6 marks
Some specific information about the case study, with linked statements
outlining the advantages and disadvantages of the chosen strategy. May
be imbalanced, with limited coverage of disadvantages. Some locational
detail.
The village of Mappleton on the Holderness coast has approximately
50 properties. Due to the erosion of the cliffs, the village is under threat.
A coastal management scheme costing £2 million involved two types of
hard engineering - placing rock armour along the base of the cliff and
building two rock groynes. Mappleton and the cliffs are no longer at great
risk from erosion. The rock groynes have stopped beach material being
moved south from Mappleton along the coast. However, this has
increased erosion south of Mappleton. Benefits in one area might have a
negative effect on another.
Level 3 (Detailed) 7-8 marks
Detailed case study exemplification, covering all aspects of the question.
Balanced account of costs and benefits.
On parts of the Holderness Coast, the rate of erosion is as much as
3 metres per year. Hornsea has been protected by building wooden
groynes and a concrete sea wall. These defences were first built in the
early 1900s and they have been well-maintained, so the location of the
coastline here has changed very little over time. Recently, a rock
revetment has been built to the south of Hornsea. This helps protect the
caravan park.
Mappleton is a small village of about 50 properties 4 kilometres to the
south-east of Hornsea. It has experienced very rapid erosion. As a
result, the main coastal road is only 50 metres from the cliff edge at its
closest point. A rock groyne and some rock armour was built in
Mappleton in 1992. Granite was shipped in from Sweden and unloaded
onto the beach to build the armour and groyne at a cost of almost
£2 million. The groyne aims to keep material on the beach in front of the
cliffs by stopping longshore drift. It has been quite an effective defence,
but there have been knock-on effects further along the coast where the
beaches are being starved of material that they used to receive through
longshore drift. The rock armour aims to stop the waves from crashing
onto the cliffs, thereby protecting the B1242 coastal road.
Due to high costs only the most valuable areas of land are protected.
Much of the area is farmland which is not defended. This is called
managed retreat when non-valuable land is allowed to erode.
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