Edexcel IGCSEGeographyGeneral Applications13 Marks

Rivers are dynamic systems that shape landscapes and are vital for human activity.

(a)(i)Name one landform typically found in the upper course of a river formed by erosion.[1]
(a)(ii)Describe how a meander forms in the middle course of a river.[3]
(b)Explain two ways in which human activities can increase the risk of river flooding.[4]
(c)Evaluate the effectiveness of hard engineering strategies in managing river flooding, referring to examples.[5]

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme. The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

(a)(i) B1 for V-shaped valley OR Interlocking spurs OR Waterfall OR Gorge.
(a)(ii) M1 for identifying erosion on outside bend/deposition on inside bend.
M1 for explaining helicoidal flow/fastest current on outside.
M1 for explaining meander migration/exaggeration over time. Max 3 marks.
(b) M1 for identifying a human activity, A1 for explaining how it increases flood risk. (x2)
Possible activities: deforestation (reduces interception), urbanisation (impermeable surfaces, rapid runoff), agriculture (soil compaction, drainage), building on floodplains (reduces natural storage). Max 4 marks.
(c) Level 1 (1-2 marks): Basic description of hard engineering. Limited evaluation.
Level 2 (3-4 marks): Describes hard engineering strategies and offers some evaluation (pros/cons). May refer to examples. Implicit balance.
Level 3 (5 marks): Detailed explanation of hard engineering strategies (e.g., dams, embankments, flood relief channels). Balanced evaluation of effectiveness, including benefits and drawbacks, referring to specific examples. Clear conclusion/judgement. Max 5 marks.

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