How to succeed at GCSE Geography

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How to succeed at GCSE Geography
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1. Read the question

• If a question asks you to describe, only describe
  DO NOT EXPLAIN!
• Describing questions usually do not have many
  marks so do not waste your time writing in too
  much detail.
• Time is valuable in exams, use it wisely.

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Example 1

• This question asks you to give two examples. Do
  not be fooled by the space they have given you to
  write.
• There is only 2 marks available. You will not be
  given extra marks for any explanations.

LEDCs and MEDCs can be affected in the same way
by global warming. Give two examples. Example 1
Example 2
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2. Look at the marks

• If you look at how many marks are available for
  the question this gives you some idea of how much
  you have to write and what to include.
• For example, you will have to include more detail
  for a 4 mark question than for a two mark
  question.

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Example 2

• This question asks you to explain two effects and
  is worth 4 marks.
• One mark will be awarded for each effect and
  another mark for each explanation.

Explain two effects of global warming on the
coastline of Vietnam.
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Example 3

• This question is worth 6 marks. It would be
  sensible to make 3 relevant points and give 3
  good explanations to achieve full marks.

How could some of Vietnams policies on global
warming be considered a good example of
sustainable development
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Example 4

• Look at this DME question. There are 20 marks
  available. The question has given some guidance
  on what to include.

• State which plan would provide the most
  sustainable solution for the Maldive government
  and write about
• Your reasons for choosing this plan
• Your reasons for not choosing the other plans
• Possible problems with your chosen plan

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Example 4 (continued)

• You could break the marks down like this
• Reasons for choosing this plan
• 3 reasons with 3 explanations 6 marks
• Reasons for not choosing the other plans
• 1 reason for each of the other three plans
  
• with 1 explanation for each 6 marks
• Possible problems with your chosen plan
• 2 problems with 2 explanations 4 marks

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Example 4 (continued)

• It is always a good idea to evaluate when writing
  your DME answer.
• The marks add up to 16. In order to gain the
  last 4 marks you could suggest a possible
  solution to the problems you have identified.
• 2 advantages of plans that were rejected with 2
  explanations 4 marks
• Always breakdown the marks and ensure you include
  an evaluation when writing extended answers.

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3. Write neatly

• Make sure that the examiner can read what you are
  writing.
• An examiner does not want to spend a lot of time
  working out what words you have written and might
  even ignore important terms you have used because
  it is not legible.

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4.Check your spag

• Make sure you check your spelling, punctuation
  and grammar!
• The examiner can award extra marks for correct
  use of spag.
• This could make the difference between one grade
  and another!

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5. REVISE, REVISE, REVISE!

• Make sure you know all your topics thoroughly!
• Organise your folder into sections and revise one
  section at a time.
• It might help to devise a revision timetable.
  You could do this for each subject and set time
  aside for each topic.
• Take a 5 minute break every 20 minutes. This
  will help you to concentrate and help you to
  remember more facts!

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And finally.

• Relax, Dont panic!
• You have all the knowledge!
• Show the examiner how you can apply your
  knowledge to the questions set.

Good Luck!