Compare the characteristics of developed and developing countries.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (May/June 2020). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. The difference in population growth and structure, income distribution, economic structure, employment composition, external trade and urbanisation.
2. L4 (9-12 marks): For developed and accurate explanations of 4 characteristics and how they differ between developed and developing countries Accurate diagrams.
3. L3 (7-8 marks): For a more developed and accurate explanation of 3 characteristics and how they differ between developed and developing countries.
4. L2 (5-6 marks): For a limited but accurate explanation of 3 characteristics and how they differ between developed and developing countries.
5. L1 (1-4 marks): For an answer which has some basic correct facts but includes irrelevancies. Errors of theory or omissions of analysis will be substantial.
6. Explanation of the use of GDP as a measure of standard of living and its adjustment to real GDP per capita. Consideration of alternative measures such as Human Development Index (HDI), Measure of Economic Welfare (MEW), Human Poverty Index (HPI), Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI)
7. L4 (9-13 marks): For an answer which discusses, in some depth, the advantages and limitations of both GDP and an alternative measure of the standard of living. Max 11 if no conclusion.
8. L3 (7-8 marks): For an answer which concentrates on GDP and its limitations and explains an alternative measure of the standard but with limited conclusion of which is better.
9. L2 (5-6 marks): For an answer which concentrates on GDP and mentions an alternative measure of the standard of living.
10. L1 (1-4 marks): For an answer which has some basic correct facts but includes irrelevancies. Errors of theory or omissions of analysis will be substantial.