Edexcel IAS Geography Paper 1 –
Answer Structure Guide
3-Mark Questions
Style: Define / State / Describe / Identify
Structure:
- One clear point = 1 mark
- Add detail or example = +1
- Repeat for 3 marks total
Example:
Q: Define a natural hazard and give one example.
A: A natural hazard is a naturally occurring event that poses a threat to people or
property. For example, an earthquake can damage buildings and cause injuries.
6-Mark Questions
Style: Explain / Describe with reasons
Structure:
- 2–3 developed points
- Use linking words: because, which leads to, therefore
- 1 brief case study or example (optional)
Example:
Q: Explain how globalisation can lead to increased inequality.
A: Globalisation can cause inequality as wealth and investment concentrate in urban
hubs. For example, TNCs may invest in cities like London, creating jobs, but rural areas
may be left behind. Also, low-skilled workers in LICs may be paid less while profits go to
developed countries.
8-Mark Questions
Style: Explain / Assess / With example
Structure:
- Define the concept in 1 sentence
- 2–3 clear, explained points
- Use 1 detailed case study
- Wrap with a short summary (optional)
Example:
Q: Explain why some areas are more vulnerable to natural hazards.
A: Vulnerability depends on physical and human factors. The Philippines is located in a
hazard hotspot where tectonic activity, typhoons, and volcanoes are frequent. Also, poor
housing and limited emergency services make the population more exposed. In contrast,
Japan experiences similar hazards but has better infrastructure and warning systems.
10-Mark Questions
Style: Explain / To what extent / Evaluate
Structure:
- Intro: define terms, rephrase question
- 2 main paragraphs with developed points
- Use evidence/data (case studies)
- Optional 2–3 line conclusion
Example:
Q: To what extent has climate change increased hazard risk?
A: Climate change increases tropical storm frequency by heating oceans (e.g., Hurricane
Dorian). It also causes droughts (e.g., East Africa) and floods (e.g., Bangladesh).
However, not all hazards (e.g., earthquakes) are linked to climate. So, climate change
increases certain hazards, but not all types.
20-Mark Questions
Style: Evaluate / Assess / Discuss / To what extent
Structure:
- Intro – define key terms, state your judgement
- Paragraph 1 – argument supporting the question
- Paragraph 2 – counter-argument
- Paragraph 3 – broader evaluation (factors, models, scale)
- Conclusion – clear judgement, balanced summary
- Use 2+ case studies, models, and command words
- Include evaluation language: However, despite, whereas, therefore
Example:
Q: To what extent can natural disasters be prevented?
A: Natural disasters can rarely be prevented, but their impacts can be reduced.
Earthquakes (e.g., Japan 2011) are hard to predict, but building codes save lives.
Flooding can be controlled with infrastructure (e.g., Thames Barrier), but climate-
related disasters are increasing. Overall, disasters can’t be stopped, but strong
governance and technology reduce their impact significantly.
