Case study questions

On the Higher Tier paper, the case study is marked like this:

Level 1 (1-2 marks) Provides simple description or explanation only.
Level 2 (3-4 marks) Provides an account in which description is accompanied by some explanation. Choice of case study applied reasonably well.
Level 3 (5-6 marks) Names an appropriate example. Provides a balanced account with accurate descriptive points and detailed explanation. Appropriate choice of case study applied well.
Level 4 (7-8 marks) Names an appropriate example. Provides a balanced account which includes specific detailed description and specific detailed explanation. Appropriate choice of case study applied very well.



1. The overall quality of the geographical response is judged rather than the ability to make continuous points.
2. The higher levels and marks can be accessed by knowledge and understanding of greater accuracy and specificity e.g. referring to the advantage of increased access for deliveries by locating a shopping centre next to Junction 21 of the M1 motorway rather than just giving a reason as being next to a motorway.
3. If a candidate chooses to use as their case study any material taken directly from the examination paper resources, marks will only be credited for knowledge and understanding that could not have been taken directly from the examination paper.
4. It is possible to gain all the marks by drawing fully annotated sketch maps and/or diagrams for any case study. Sketch maps need to contain some explanatory labels to get beyond level 1; descriptive labels alone do not meet the explanation criteria.
5. To ensure coverage of syllabus breadth it is sometimes necessary to include an exclusion clause in the question e.g. from an MEDC, outside the UK or to specify a choice where another response is not wanted e.g. a weather event (i.e. not climate). In order to ensure that good understanding of Key Ideas and Questions being examined from that part of the Unit in that question receive some credit, candidates may still be awarded up to a maximum of half marks on each case study where the choice is inappropriate but related. This also applies if a relevant case study is discussed but not clearly named or identified where requested.