Examine the costs and benefits of urban redevelopment for different groups of stakeholders.

Examine the influence of economic and political factors on the location of low-quality residential areas in cities.

Marks should be allocated according to the Paper 1 markbands (available under the "Your tests" tab > supplemental materials).

Urban redevelopment, in both low- and high-income countries, may have a significant impact on neighbourhoods and local communities. Costs and benefits will vary between different stakeholders, who may have differing perspectives and power.

Possible applied themes (AO2) demonstrating knowledge and understanding (AO1):

• Urban redevelopment includes land use changes, such as slum clearances and gentrification, development of brownfield and greenfield sites, affecting neighbourhoods and their populations.
• Slum clearances may include areas in cities of different levels of economic development – eg squatter settlements and inner-city slums.
• Residential populations in affected local neighbourhoods may have different viewpoints concerning land use changes, and be affected in different ways.
• Costs and benefits will vary between different stakeholders, such as local communities, city planners, developers and TNCs, who have differing perspectives and power.

Good answers may be well structured (AO4) and may additionally offer a critical evaluation (AO3) that examines how perspectives will vary based on who is benefitting; these may change on longer timescales. Costs and benefits may be spread according to the power of different stakeholders. In different places there may also be more or less protection for disenfranchised stakeholders.

For 5–6 marks, expect some weakly evidenced outlining of the costs and/or benefits of urban redevelopment for people/stakeholders.

For 7–8 marks, expect a structured account that includes:

• either an evidenced explanation of costs and benefits of urban redevelopment(do not expect balance) for different groups of stakeholders
• or a discursive conclusion (or ongoing evaluation) grounded in geographical concepts and/or perspectives.

For 9–10 marks, expect both of these traits.

Marks should be allocated according to the Paper 1 markbands (available under the "Your tests" tab > supplemental materials).

The location of low-quality residential areas in cities may vary over space and time. It may vary between cities in low-income and high-income countries. Their location is affected by a variety of economic, social, political and physical factors, and importance is affected by the relative power of different stakeholders.

Possible applied themes (AO2) demonstrating knowledge and understanding (AO1):

• Examples may be taken from one or more cities.
• Economic factors include variations in land value and the relative wealth/poverty of the populations. Also, employment, industrial activity and proximity to other types of urban land use.
• Transportation networks and accessibility.
• Political factors include urban planning, including possible segregation of low-income groups.
• Political factors may be more important in autocratic than democratic governments and societies.
• Other factors may also be important, such as physical (eg, high relief and poorly drained areas) and social (ethnic minorities and immigrant groups, segregation).

Good answers may be well structured (AO4) and may additionally offer a critical evaluation (AO3) that examines the importance of scale – eg, small cities or megacities. Another consideration is the interaction between different political and economic stakeholders. This depends on different places in the world (developing or developed) and different power structures in autocracies/democracies. Perspectives may differ on what “low quality” means.

For 5–6 marks, expect some weakly evidenced outlining of the influence of economic and/or political factors on the location of residential urban areas.

For 7–8 marks, expect a structured account that includes:

• either an evidenced explanation of how economic and political factors (do not expect balance) may influence the location of low-quality residential areas in cities
• or a discursive conclusion (or ongoing evaluation) grounded in geographical concepts and/or perspectives.

For 9–10 marks, expect both of these traits.

This was a broad question with numerous possibilities to use a wide variety of examples in covering different types of redevelopment. Examples used tended to be Rio de Janeiro, London, Mumbai (Dharavi) and New York. Responses were often descriptive and did not identify different groups of stakeholders.

Too often, the key word "location" was ignored, and responses described aspects of low-quality residential areas, with no reference to locational factors. Others looked at the location of low-quality housing in HICs and LICs but details were missing on the economic and political factors that determine the location of such housing. Generally, there were many poor responses but the ones that were well done selected low-quality housing areas in New York along with Dharavi and the Rio favelas to bring out the role of economic and political factors.

Examine the varying impact of human activity on urban microclimates and air pollution.

Examine the interrelationships between the growth of cities and their infrastructure development.

Refer to Paper 1 markbands (available under the "Your tests" tab > supplemental materials).

The focus of the response should be on the modification of urban microclimates by human activity. This includes patterns and sources of air pollution, and the causes and effects of urban heat islands. Other aspects of urban microclimates that might be considered include wind strength and variability and precipitation types and amounts. Consideration might be given to management strategies to reduce adverse effects of air pollution.

Possible applied themes (AO2) demonstrating knowledge and understanding (AO1):

• The various causes and patterns of air pollution within cities, including the role of transport and industry, and types of pollution varying with combustion of fossil fuels.
• The environmental impact and the social and economic costs of air pollution, including health issues and social stress.
• Causes of urban heat islands and the spatial and temporal variations in intensity.
• Atmospheric pollution, heat islands and the nature of built-up areas might also affect wind and precipitation in cities.
• Strategies to improve air quality are of increasing importance in many cities. These include use of alternative energy, such as electric vehicles, development of public transport and reducing traffic congestion.
• The relative success of strategies to improve air quality may vary with context: rapidly growing megacities in low-income countries, compared with cities in high-income countries.

Good answers may be well-structured (AO4) and may additionally offer a critical evaluation (AO3) of the statement in a way that shows understanding of the causes, spatial variation and impacts of human activity on urban microclimates. One approach might be to examine the challenges faced by governments and urban planners to improve air quality in different places and contexts. There may be an evaluation of the relative success of strategies in the context of ensuring a sustainable urban future. Another approach might be to consider the perspectives and power of different stakeholders.

For 5–6 marks, expect some weakly evidenced outlining of the impact of human activity on urban microclimates and/or air pollution.

For 7–8 marks, expect a structured account that includes:

• either evidenced examination of varying impacts of human activity on urbanmicroclimates and air pollution (do not expect balance)
• or a discursive conclusion (or ongoing evaluation) grounded in geographical concepts and/or perspectives.

For 9–10 marks, expect both of these traits.

Refer to Paper 1 markbands (available under the "Your tests" tab > supplemental materials).

The focus of the response should be on different types of urban infrastructure, including transport, waste disposal and provision of clean water and how the development of infrastructure has or has not kept pace with urban growth. Consideration may be given to the various challenges and opportunities faced by decision-makers and urban planners.

Possible applied themes (AO2) demonstrating knowledge and understanding (AO1):

• The development of adequate infrastructure is essential for the success of economic activity, living standards and quality of life of urban dwellers.Different types of urban infrastructure should be considered in the context of one or more cities.
• Rapid urban growth puts strain and pressures on infrastructure. The problems are acute in large cities, especially megacities in lower-income countries, which are facing a dramatic increase in population. This is reflected in poor transport systems, congestion and a lack of basic facilities in large areas of slums. In addition, higher-income countries suffer from aging infrastructure in need of repair and replacement, together with congested transport networks. Although population growth may be relatively small, the cost of renewal and repair of infrastructure is high.
• There are significant challenges to urban planners and different stakeholders. Solutions should be designed for the future sustainability of urban systems, possibly involving an integrated approach combining transport, energy, water and waste.

Good answers may be well-structured (AO4) and may additionally offer a critical evaluation (AO3) of the statement in a way that shows understanding of the issues and interrelationships surrounding the development of infrastructure in relation to urban areas and communities. One approach might be to critically examine how possibilities for further urban growth rely on perpetual infrastructure development and improvement. Another approach might be to consider the power of different stakeholders, such as national and local governments, urban planners and local people.

For 5–6 marks, expect some weakly evidenced outlining of the relationship between urban growth and infrastructure development.

For 7–8 marks, expect a structured account that includes:

• either evidenced examination of issues / problems concerning the relationship between urban growth and infrastructure development in different geographical contexts
• or a discursive conclusion (or ongoing evaluation) grounded in geographical concepts and/or perspectives.

For 9–10 marks, expect both of these traits.

Examine the contribution eco city design could make to the management of urban challenges in the future.

Examine ways in which deindustrialization has helped bring positive changes to some urban areas and communities.

Marks should be allocated according to the markbands.

An eco city is a city built from the principles of living within environmental means. Eco cities may be new or retro-fitted older settlements. Credit design/architectural features and management strategies eg water harvesting, solar panels.

Urban challenges may already be present and candidates may not necessarily distinguish between present day and possible future challenges.

Possible applied themes (AO2) demonstrating knowledge and understanding (AO1):

• Challenges including: reducing the urban ecological footprint; stresses from increasing traffic congestion; housing shortages.
• Stresses due to escalating climatic risks at the local and global scale, such as air pollution, urban heat islands, and global warming.
• Urban resource shortages, including water.
• Future possibilities for the management of urban systems including: eco city design (and also resilient city design and smart city design).
• Specific strategies to manage the urban ecological footprint, including: the elimination of carbon waste (zero-carbon city), production of energy through renewable resources, resource conservation.
• Restoring environmentally damaged areas whilst still stimulating economic growth and tackling urban poverty.

Good answers may be well structured (AO4) and may additionally offer a critical evaluation (AO3) of the statement that examines possible limitations of eco city design and the contribution that can realistically be made (recognising high costs and existing infrastructures, and political commitment). Another approach might be to examine how far strategies can be delivered in different places, ie established cities and megacities, compared with newly planned cities.

For 5–6 marks, expect some outlining of eco city design and/or urban challenges. The response is partial, narrow or lacks supporting evidence.

For 7–8 marks, expect a well-structured account which includes:

• either a well-evidenced explanation of eco city design(s) and the management of (future) urban challenges
• or a discursive conclusion (or ongoing evaluation) grounded in geographical concepts and/or perspective.

For 9–10 marks, expect both of these traits.

Marks should be allocated according to the markbands.

There are positive economic, social and environmental consequences of deindustrialization for urban areas, although not all areas/places and community/people may benefit equally. These effects may be considered in different geographical contexts and on varying time scales.

Possible applied themes (AO2) demonstrating knowledge and understanding (AO1):

• The subsequent growth of tertiary and quaternary industries after the decline of manufacturing industry.
• Re-investment in deprived areas, especially by service industries; improvements in transport, housing and infrastructure.
• Redevelopment of brownfield sites.
• Decreasing unemployment, especially amongst unskilled and low-paid workers (provided new opportunities and training appear).
• In-migration into regenerated urban areas.
• Environmental improvements / restoration.
• Economic benefits for areas where industrial work has relocated.

Good answers may be well structured (AO4) and may additionally offer a critical evaluation (AO3) of the statement in a way that examines the different positive changes linked with economic, social and environmental aspects of the deindustrialization process. Another approach might be to examine varying benefits for different places affected by the process (possibly including urban areas where factories have relocated). Another approach might be to examine the time scale of the changes. Another approach might be to examine the power of different stakeholders to deliver positive change.

For 5–6 marks, expect some outlining of some positive changes linked with deindustrialization. The response is partial, narrow or lacks supporting evidence.

For 7–8 marks, expect a well-structured account which includes:

• either a well-evidenced explanation of positive changes for urban areas and their communities resulting from deindustrialization
• or a discursive conclusion (or ongoing evaluation) grounded in geographical concepts and/or perspectives.

For 9–10 marks, expect both of these traits. 

A popular question. Most candidates understood the concept of eco cities and were able to discuss some aspects of eco city design. Many had well-chosen examples (e.g. Masdar, BedZED, Songdo, Eko Atlantic) and were able to give specific details of how these are designed to meet future urban challenges. Few, however, were able to offer an evaluation of their limitations and/or effectiveness. Examples of  true eco cities (as defined in the syllabus) were less frequent than retrofit sustainable approaches. Curitiba and Singapore were often successfully used as examples. Many candidates attempted  to  use certain  aspects of New York, Chicago, London and other mega cities and claimed that this one design aspect made them  an eco city.

This was the least popular question, and many did not understand the term deindustrialization. Others only discussed the reasons for and the negative impacts of deindustrialization on a city, for example, Detroit. Good answers described good case studies and were able to explain positive economic, social and environmental impacts to urban areas and communities.

State the factor that belongs in box A.

State one political factor that could be included in box B.

Outline how one physical factor can affect the location of low-income residential areas in a city.

Explain two possible ways of solving the long-term issue of urban social deprivation in an area such as this.

Reduced job opportunities/unemployment/outmigration

Award [1] for a valid political factor.

Possibilities include:

• Clean Air Act
• adoption of sustainability goals
• land-use planning
• tariffs and trade (including trade barriers)
• government policies.

Award [1] for a correct physical factor and [1] for development.

For example, favelas on steep slopes [1] because they are prone to landslides and other people don’t want to live there [1].

Other possible factors include:

• swampy area
• contaminated land
• prevailing wind or strong winds.

Do not accept distance from the CBD as this is being interpreted as an economic factor (bid rent).

In each case, award [1] for the strategy and up to [2] for development/explanation/exemplification.

For example: Re-training of people who have lost their job and lack skills [1] in order for them to get work in new service industries [1], which attracts new employers/industry to the area and breaks the cycle [1].

Other possibilities include:

• movement of new industries into these brownfield sites
• micro-financing / lending
• re-industrialization
• provision of affordable housing
• government intervention
• encouraging a wider range of leisure activities/night life
• developing flag ship attractions
• constructing new offices, conference centres, hotels
• re-urbanization with new apartment blocks.

Do not accept gentrification as a factor.

No problems with this part.

Not many could correctly state a political factor. Some of the answers were correct but did not fit into the Box B as per the flow diagram.

Many did not identify a physical factor and as such answered incorrectly. Others identified a physical factor but did not develop the point sufficiently.

There were a lot of fully developed responses but there were also weaknesses as many responses did not actually address the question about how to solve urban social deprivation. Instead the candidates wrote about urban renewal in general terms, for example suggesting de-industrialization or suburbanization as a solution. There was also a lot of repetition in the two suggestions.

Identify two types of vehicle allowed within the superblock model.

Determine the number of residents living in each superblock (as enclosed by the marked roads).

Outline one way in which the superblock model could modify the microclimate of an urban area.

Explain two ways in which technologies can be used by urban planners to manage smart cities such as this more sustainably.

Award [1] for any two, and [0] for only one.

bicycles / urban and emergency services / residents’ vehicles (do not accept cars)

900

Award [1] for a valid environmental consequence of the superblock model and [1]for a link to microclimate.

For example: Less motorised vehicles reduces emissions [1], which lowers air temperature [1] / which improves air quality [1].

Other ways include:

• wind patterns (decrease / funneling)
• changing albedo as road surface changed for pedestrianization

In each case, award [1] for a correct way and up to [2] for development / explanation / exemplification linked to sustainability.

For example: Urban planners can use satellite data to monitor traffic [1]. This lets drivers know where to go to keep the city moving [1], which is vital in cities that can become over congested [1].

Other examples include but are not limited to

• scheduling waste collections
• parking availability
• irrigation controls for vertical/ roof-top gardens.
• driverless cars
• smart meters
• technologies linked to increasing sustainability eg e.v. charging stations

Do not accept general eco-city points like solar panels/power or use of public transport as these are not Smart City technologies.

Most candidates answered this correctly although a few did not quote directly from the diagram.

Most candidates answered this correctly.

Many had good knowledge of how vehicle emissions contribute to the urban heat island. However, there is still the misconception that carbon dioxide emissions are the main problem at a local level.

Many candidates had a poor understanding of smart cities and gave answers that were not relevant to the question and more relevant to eco-cities, for example solar panels and public transport. Those that attempted to link waste collections, traffic lights, electric vehicles with some use of technology did score some marks.

Using map evidence, identify one factor that has limited the expansion of Lagos towards the west.

Estimate how far (in km) Lagos has grown along the southern part of the lagoon between points X and Y from 1984 to 2013.

Suggest two social reasons for the rapid growth of a megacity such as Lagos.

Explain two reasons why the informal economic sector is important in a megacity such as Lagos.

River

25 (allow 21-27)

Award [1] for a valid social reason and [1] for further development.
Do not credit economic reasons.

For example: A high rate of natural increase [1] as fertility rates are high in countries such as Nigeria [1].

Other possible reasons include:

• Migration – as pull factors such as education, universities, hospitals (do not double credit two urban social pull factors).
• Push factors in rural areas, such as militia groups/civil war or land reforms. Must be distinctly different from the pull factor.
• Accept suburbanization/migration to periphery as a valid reason.

In each case, award [1] for a reason, and [1] for relevant explanation.

For example: The rapid growth of the mega-city/ the scale of the rural-urban migration into Lagos, means that many formal jobs are not available [1] therefore, people must rely on small-scale, labour-intensive activities to survive [1].

Other possibilities include:

• Informal self-employment, eg new technology industries may offer greater opportunity than low-paid formal work.
• Important from a consumer point of view to have cheaper alternatives.

State which neighbourhood has the lowest amount of green space remaining.

State which neighbourhood has 30 % of green space remaining on its streets.

Outline one reason why urban temperatures are sometimes higher than those of surrounding rural areas.

Suggest how the loss of green spaces over time in large cities like this could be explained by one economic factor.

Suggest how the loss of green spaces over time in large cities like this could be explained by one political factor.

B

C

Award [1] for a correct factor and [1] for development.

For example: Higher density of buildings/concrete compared with rural areas absorb/store heat during the day [1] which is then released during the night [1].

Other possibilities include:

• Buildings emitting heat
• Air pollution
• Transport routes
• Hard surface reverberation
• Albedo effect
• Valid reasons why rural areas are cooler.

Award [1] for a valid suggestion and up to [2] for development / explanation /exemplification.

For example: In large cities, there is very high demand for land [1] so green space is turned into more profitable land uses in the inner areas [1] for example for new housing projects [1].

Other possibilities include:

• retail use
• industry
• services.

Award [1] for a valid suggestion and up to [2] for development / explanation / exemplification.

For example: lack of protection of green spaces by planning authorities/governments [1] leading to the uncontrolled urban sprawl of industry/housing/transport [1] particularly where there is great public pressure for new housing that governments must act on [1].

Other possibilities include:

• planning i.e. designating areas for housing / industrial use
• corruption means protected areas are developed unofficially
• local tax revenues increased by new housing/car parks.

These didn't seem to cause problems.

These didn't seem to cause problems although several were incorrect with a(ii).

Most had some good knowledge of the urban heat island, but many did not gain the extra mark for developing the reason, especially relating to the emission of vehicle exhaust fumes. The albedo effect was well understood.

There was some misunderstanding of what was meant by green spaces with some referring to forests and farmland. Good answers were able to refer to a named example of the loss of green space. 

There was some misunderstanding of what was meant by green spaces with some referring to forests and farmland. Good answers were able to refer to a named example of the loss of green space. A few had a limited idea of what a 'political factor' encompassed and referred to the results of wars.

Using map evidence, state why traffic congestion may occur at De Bataaf (grid square 4722).

State the direction from Vredespaleis (4720) to World Forum (4621).

Outline one possible recent change in urban function in box A.

Explain one possible physical factor and two possible human factors that can affect the pattern of residential development in a post-industrial city such as Den Haag.

A brief statement using map evidence is needed for [1]. A response that implies traffic congestion is acceptable.

Possibilities include:

• Major road which attracts heavy traffic.
• Parking areas which slow traffic flow.
• Sports facilities which attract visitors
• Golf and tennis facilities may attract people (implies traffic congestion).

NW (only acceptable answer)

Award [1] for a valid change for a post-industrial city and [1] for further development (outline).

For example: Urban industries have probably been replaced by services [1] such as waterfront restaurants around what are probably old docks [1].

Other possible ways/changes include:

• conversion of waterside warehouses into offices
• conversion of waterside warehouses into hotels or houses / gentrification
• old docks have been replaced by marina.

Award a maximum of [1] if no clear reference is made to box A.

In each case, award [1] for a valid factor linked to residential development and [1] for explanation of how it affects the residential pattern.

For example: Human factor – residential housing is absent from large areas of this city where there are parks [1]. This may be due to planning laws limiting development on green spaces [1].
Physical factor – attractive coastal scenery [1] can encourage residential development along the coastline, because of the attractive view [1].

Other possible factors include:

Physical

• restriction in flood risk areas (both rivers and coastline)
• other physical factors such as relief/flat land.

Human

• land values
• land use planning/purpose-built estates
• distance from old industrial areas

Generally well answered, although some failed to link with traffic congestion.

Mostly answered correctly, although some did not recognize that a compass direction was required.

This question caused some problems; most showed a poor understanding of urban function and did not recognize how this might change in a post-industrial city.

This question also posed some difficulties. The term "physical factor" was not understood, or ignored. Many candidates answered the question in terms of push and pull factors and land values, or listed factors that might affect residential development without explaining how these patterns might be affected.

Examine reasons for the location of different economic activities in one or more cities.

Evaluate the use of eco-city design as a way of managing large cities more sustainably.

Marks should be allocated according to the Paper 1 markbands (available under the "Your tests" tab > supplemental materials).

The focus of the question is on the location/distribution/pattern of different economic activities (retail, commercial and industrial) in urban areas. The factors affecting the pattern might be physical, economic and political. The relative importance of these will vary between different urban areas in countries at contrasting levels of development.

Possible applied themes (AO2) demonstrating knowledge and understanding (AO1):

• There is a variety of physical, economic and political factors that influence the location of different economic activities.
• Physical factors might include relief, drainage, proximity to the sea or rivers.
• Economic factors include land values, access to transportation, proximity to a CBD.
• Political factors include planning and controls over development.
• Social factors might include relative wealth and poverty, and deprivation which influence informal economic activities.

Good answers may be well structured (AO4) and may additionally offer a critical evaluation (AO3) of the statement in a way that examines varying reasons for the location of economic activities in urban areas. The power of different stakeholders might be considered in urban places and scales. Another approach might be to consider the different time scales of changing locations of economic activity in urban areas.

For 5–6 marks, expect weakly evidenced outlining of reasons for location of economic activities in an urban area.

For 7–8 marks, expect a structured account which includes:

• either an evidenced explanation of the influence of different factors affecting the location of economic activity in one or more urban areas
• or a discursive conclusion (or ongoing evaluation) grounded in geographical concepts and/or perspectives.

For 9–10 marks, expect both of these traits.

Marks should be allocated according to the Paper 1 markbands (available under the "Your tests" tab > supplemental materials).

The increasing concentration of people into large urban areas poses considerable challenges to urban planners, including management of the urban ecological footprint. Ecological issues include: atmospheric pollution and production of greenhouse gases, dependence on fossil fuels, pollution and over-use of water supplies; damage to natural ecosystems and wildlife. Sustainable management aims to reduce these ecological stresses and the urban ecological footprint. The use of eco-city designs is important, but these are often only at small scale, are expensive and can only play a small role in overcoming future urban challenges. Eco-cities may not always be appropriate, but the design principles may be successfully applied to existing cities.

Possible applied themes (AO2) demonstrating knowledge and understanding (AO1):

• Eco-cities are designed to reduce ecological footprint, including minimizing greenhouse gas emissions, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, the sustainable use of water, and disposal of waste.
• Several eco-cities and eco-communities have been constructed, but these are often of small scale and expensive.
• Planned eco-cities may be more appropriate in richer countries, with lower rates of urbanization, but less appropriate in large, rapidly growing cities in NICs.
• Principles of eco-city design may be “retro-fitted” to sustainable management of existing cities.

Good answers may be well structured (AO4) and may additionally offer a critical evaluation (AO3) of the statement in a way that examines the contribution of eco-city design processes to the sustainable management of cities. The power and perspectives of different stakeholders might be considered. Another approach might be to examine the success in terms of different spatial scales, the time scale of the changes, and whether the cities are new or long established.

For 5–6 marks, expect weakly evidenced outlining of eco-city design and/or sustainable management.

For 7–8 marks, expect a structured account which includes:

• either an evidenced explanation of the contribution of eco-city design to sustainable management in large cities
• or a discursive conclusion (or ongoing evaluation) grounded in geographical concepts and/or perspectives.

For 9–10 marks, expect both of these traits.

This was an unpopular question and was poorly answered. Few were able to apply geographical concepts such as accessibility and land value as reasons, and the question was interpreted to mean why different cities have different economic functions (for example, port, tourism) rather than the location of economic activity within cities.

There was good understanding of why cities need to be managed sustainably, and some interesting examples from cities in different parts of the world. Weaker answers used examples of management strategies in cities that were introduced for other reasons (Curitiba for example). There was some confusion over what was exactly meant by eco-city design and many included resilient and smart city concepts as well. There were many descriptive responses as the case studies had been learnt well, but few were able to evaluate — those that did looked at the cost of strategies and the difficulty of retrofitting.

Examine the strengths and weaknesses of resilient city design as a way of managing climatic challenges.

Examine why social deprivation occurs for different reasons in urban areas at varying stages of development.

Marks should be allocated according to the Paper 1 markbands (available under the "Your tests" tab > supplemental materials).

Climatic challenges to urban areas occur at both the macro and local scale, long and short term. They include challenges from global climatic change, including secondary impacts such as rising sea levels and increasing frequency and intensity of storms. At the local scale, increasing air pollution poses a serious threat to the environment, human health and increasing death rates. The local heat island effect might also intensify. Strategies to manage escalating climatic risks include adopting resilient city design. Resilient cities are cities that have the ability to absorb, recover and prepare for future shocks, especially challenges associated with climate change.

Possible applied themes (AO2) demonstrating knowledge and understanding (AO1):

• Challenges include global warming, resulting in rising sea levels, increased storm activity and flooding, especially in low-lying coastal cities.
• Man-made climate challenges include increased air pollution and heat island effects, causing serious health issues and possible death.
• Strength of resilient city design include equipping cities to face future climate challenges. For example, improved flood defences; land-use zoning; strategies to improve air quality. Cities become more sustainable, and better-suited to face future climate shocks.
• Increased provision of open space; conservation and enhancement of natural systems.
• Weaknesses include high economic costs in modifying infrastructure; rapid growth of population, and low incomes, in some cities makes it difficult to enact to design principles.

Good answers may be well-structured (AO4) and may additionally offer a critical evaluation (AO3) of the statement in a way that shows understanding of how the principles of resilient city design can be used to manage climatic challenges, and illustrates the power and different perspectives of stakeholders. Another approach might be to consider how the challenges and their management might vary between different places, at varying levels of development, or at different timescales.

For 5–6 marks, expect weakly-evidenced outlining of at least one resilient city design to manage a climatic challenge.

For 7–8 marks, expect a well-structured account that includes:

• either an evidenced explanation of the strengths and weaknesses of resilient city design in managing climatic challenges
• or a discursive conclusion grounded in geographical concepts and/or perspectives, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of resilient city design.

For 9–10 marks, expect both of these traits.

Marks should be allocated according to the Paper 1 markbands (available under the "Your tests" tab > supplemental materials).

Urban social deprivation includes increasing levels of poverty, low living standards, poor health, low educational attainment, and poor access to resources. Deprivation occurs in all urban areas, in countries at varying levels of economic development. The causes of deprivation are often difficult to determine. It is often associated with high unemployment and rising crime levels. Urban deprivation is concentrated in particular areas of cities, including inner-city and outer-city housing estates and areas of informal housing.

Possible applied themes (AO2) demonstrating knowledge and understanding (AO1):

• Urban social deprivation includes: poverty and low living standards; lack of access to resources, low provision of health care and education; high crime rates.
• Social deprivation is concentrated in particular areas of cities.
• There is an increasing divide between “rich” and “poor” areas in cities, and increasing social and economic inequalities.
• Management of deprivation involves perspectives of different stakeholders, including national and local governments, city planners, and local residents.
• Causes of social deprivation may differ between urban areas at varying stages of development.
• Low income countries have rapidly growing populations, resulting in low quality housing, shanty towns and high levels of unemployment and poverty.
• In high income countries the deprivation may be on a smaller scale, and concentrated in specific areas of a city. Deprivation linked to poor housing and low income levels may be caused by factors such as closure of traditional industries and planning policies.

Good answers may be well-structured (AO4) and may additionally offer a critical evaluation (AO3) of the statement in a way that shows evidenced judgment of the processes causing social deprivation in different urban places. Another approach might be to consider the power and perspectives of different stakeholders.

For 5–6 marks, expect weakly-evidenced outlining of one or more reasons for urban social deprivation.

For 7–8 marks, expect a well-structured account that includes:

• either an evidenced explanation of a variety of different reasons for social deprivation in two or more cities at different stages of development
• or a discursive conclusion (or ongoing evaluation) grounded in geographical concepts and/or perspectives.

For 9–10 marks, expect both of these traits.

Stronger candidates were able to provide evidenced explanations of city design but not many were able to combine this with ongoing evaluation of specific designs for climate challenges. Many wrote about how cities can be eco-friendlier, for example, Curitiba, but did not address how the cities are going to be better at managing and coping with climatic challenges, and many also ignored the strengths and weaknesses part of the question.

This was reasonably well-answered. Most candidates compared deindustrialization in Detroit with growth of shanty towns/favelas (e.g. Rio or Dharavi Mumbai) in large urban areas in less-developed countries. A few (correctly) examined deprivation at a small scale within cities in high-income countries.

Examine the influence of two or more physical factors on patterns of economic activity in urban environments.

Examine the management challenges in cities experiencing rapid population growth.

Marks should be allocated according to the Paper 1 markbands (available under the "Your tests" tab > supplemental materials.

Patterns of economic activity are influenced by several different physical factors, such as geology, relief, drainage, site (e.g. coastal or riverside) and local climates (which might influence patterns of pollution). Geological factors might include proximity to mineral deposits (mining); areas of low relief might be suitable for industrial and retailing activities and influence the development of infrastructure. Coastal regions may attract port activities.

Possible applied themes (AO2) demonstrating knowledge and understanding (AO1):

• Physical factors that might influence patterns of economic activity include geology, relief, drainage, site (coastal/riverside) and climate.
• Relief is an important factor – low relief is a site factor influencing the location of large scale industrial or retail activities, which will avoid areas of steep slopes.
• Economic activities will also tend to avoid areas of poor drainage/marshland liable to flooding. On the other hand, these areas may be of low economic value and so suitable for extensive industrial activities.
• Infrastructure development is also favoured by areas of low relief.
• A coastal or riverside location is an important site factor for the development of port-related activities.
• Geology may be important – proximity to mineral resources may lead to the development of mining; unstable ground may be unsuitable for urban development.
• Local climates, such as the direction of prevailing winds, may influence the location of polluting industrial activities.

Good answers may be well structured (AO4) and may additionally offer a critical evaluation (AO3) of the statement in a way that examines interactions between different factors (such as physical, economic, and planning) at varying scales; e.g. different site factors in different places. Examination may also be made of the changing role of physical factors over varying time scales.

For 5–6 marks, expect some weakly evidenced outlining of the influence of one or more physical factors on urban economic activities.

For 7–8 marks, expect a structured account that includes:

• either an evidenced explanation of the influence of two or more physical factors in urban environments
• or a discursive conclusion (or ongoing evaluation) grounded in geographical concepts and perspectives.

For 9–10 marks, expect both of these traits.

Marks should be allocated according to the Paper 1 markbands (available under the "Your tests" tab > supplemental materials.

In recent years there has been a dramatic growth of population in cities, especially in Asia and Africa, caused by a combination of rural–urban migration and high rates of natural increase. This rapid growth causes significant challenges to urban planners, especially in relatively poor areas of the world.

Possible applied themes (AO2) demonstrating knowledge and understanding (AO1):

• Rapid population growth in large urban areas is causing significant challenges to urban planners, especially in Asia, Africa and Latin America.
• Challenges include provision of employment, housing, water supply, sanitation and health.
• Other challenges include reducing urban stress caused by traffic congestion, pollution and waste disposal.
• Urban planners need to devise strategies to manage the urban systems for a sustainable future, such as resilient city design, reducing the urban ecological footprint, and purpose-built settlements.

Good answers may be well structured (AO4) and may additionally offer a critical evaluation (AO3) of the statement in a way that links the challenges to the scale of the city and growth (i.e., some worse than others); demographic processes of migration and natural increase mean management goals must keep changing. Different places/world regions may have different context-specific challenges.

For 5–6 marks, expect some weakly evidenced outlining of one or more management challenges caused by rapid population growth in cities.

For 7–8 marks, expect a structured account that includes:

• either an evidenced explanation of management challenges facing cities experiencing rapid population growth
• or a discursive conclusion (or ongoing evaluation) grounded in geographical concepts and perspectives.

For 9–10 marks, expect both of these traits.

An unpopular question and those who did answer this question mostly described a broad range of factors affecting economic activity (e.g. bid rent) in cities in general and did not focus on physical factors nor the spatial distribution in cities. Several forgot that they were discussing urban environments and ended up discussing agriculture.

There were a number of high-quality answers giving an evidenced examination of management challenges. However, not all examples were appropriate to the question as the city selected was not experiencing "rapid population growth". Other responses were a description of the measures taken to solve the problems that cities are facing and did not emphasize the management challenges. A strength identified in many responses was an awareness about the dynamic nature of cities and how the challenges change and/or can be so great that even the best planned responses are insufficient.

Identify the state highway located in grid reference 6105.

State one physical reason for the location of the airport to the east of Frankton (Queenstown Airport).

Outline one reason why land values are higher in some parts of an urban area.

Explain two challenges associated with making infrastructure improvements in urban settlements such as Queenstown.

6A

Accept any possible physical reason such as:

Flat land [1] / prevailing winds [1] / orientation of valleys [1]

Award [1] for the reason and [1] for development/explanation.

For example: many people want to live by the coast due to the nice view [1] so demand drives up prices [1].

Other possible factors (these may or may not relate to the map) include:

• proximity to the city centre / CBD
• transport
• access
• physical factors such as flat land
• planning decisions may limit development.

For each one, award [1] for the challenge, and up to [2] for explanation, development and/or exemplification.

For example: provision of a new airport runway may require the use of existing residential areas [1] involving the resettlement / out migration of residents [1] possibly leading to urban sprawl if new suburbs are to be built [1].

Other challenges include:

• older infrastructure
• site restrictions – two entirely different ones are acceptable.
• community unwillingness / pressure groups e.g. environmental
• planning restrictions / loss of countryside.

Generally well answered.

The word physical was either not understood or ignored.

This was well done with proximity to the CBD being the most used reason.

Many correct answers here although some looked at consequences not challenges. The majority used the given map as a guide, for example, steep slopes, although this was not necessary as any urban settlement could have been used.