Embedded Files
So, you finished the syllabus content and looking for the exam technique to help you achieve an A*/9? Don't worry. Everything you need will be stated here. Feel free to click on the titles below to reach your desired section.
HOW TO UNDERSTAND THE EXAMINER'S GAME?
HOW TO UNDERSTAND THE EXAMINER'S GAME?
When you’re answering EM questions, remember: examiners aren’t just checking if you “know stuff.” They want to see how well you can apply, explain, use examples, and evaluate consequences or solutions. If you understand what they want, you can tailor your answers to get the marks more reliably.
PAPER 1:
PAPER 1:
WHAT IS PAPER 1?
WHAT IS PAPER 1?
This paper is an hour and 45 minutes long with a total of 80 marks. It has 2 sections: A and B.
Section A (20 marks): short and structured questions — definitions, short explanations, straightforward knowledge.
Section B (60 marks): source-based + extended response questions — you’ll read maps, graphs, data, or a passage, then answer questions that test explanation, analysis, and evaluation.
Tip: Section A is quick marks if you know your definitions. Section B is where you show depth with explanations, examples, and evaluation.
PAPER 2:
PAPER 2:
WHAT IS PAPER 2?
WHAT IS PAPER 2?
This paper is 1 hour and 45 minutes long with a total of 80 marks.
This paper is fully source-based and scenario-driven. You’ll be given a case study or situation and asked to:
Interpret data (graphs, climate maps, population tables).
Apply your knowledge to the scenario.
Suggest management strategies, discuss trade-offs, and evaluate solutions.
Tip: Always refer to the source material in your answers. Don’t just write general knowledge. Examiners want to see you using the data provided.
TECHNIQUE AND MARK DISTRIBUTION
TECHNIQUE AND MARK DISTRIBUTION
1-2 MARK QUESTIONS:
1-2 MARK QUESTIONS:
State a fact or definition (knowledge point). Write 1 clear point with key detail.
3-4 MARK QUESTIONS:
3-4 MARK QUESTIONS:
State a short explanation. Give 2 points, each explained OR 1 point, explanation + example.
5-6 MARK QUESTIONS:
5-6 MARK QUESTIONS:
Knowledge + explanation + example. Usually 2–3 points, each explained, with data/example.
7-8 MARK QUESTIONS:
7-8 MARK QUESTIONS:
Extended explanation or mini-evaluation. Cover multiple points, use examples, maybe a “however…” or “on the other hand.”
9-10 MARK QUESTIONS:
9-10 MARK QUESTIONS:
Full answer with knowledge, explanation, examples, and evaluation. Write in a structured way: definition → explanation → case study → evaluate/solutions → conclusion.
TIME MANAGEMENT TIPS:
TIME MANAGEMENT TIPS:
1 mark ≈ 1.25 minutes. Example: a 4-mark question → ~5 minutes.
Don’t overspend time on long questions. Write a structured answer, then move on.
Use the first 5 minutes to scan the whole paper and spot the questions you’re most confident with.
Leave time at the end (5–7 mins) to check you answered every part of multi-part questions.
MISTAKES TO AVOID:
MISTAKES TO AVOID:
Now that the basic foundation of answering the questions is covered, we will go over the common mistakes that many candidates do.
- GIVING LISTS WITHOUT EXPLANATION:
Example: “Deforestation causes erosion, loss of biodiversity, flooding.” → too vague. Must explain HOW.
2. FORGETTING EXAMPLES:
2. FORGETTING EXAMPLES:
Case studies or real-world examples make your answers stronger.
3. COPYING THE SOURCE:
3. COPYING THE SOURCE:
Always add your own explanation, not just restating what’s on the graph/table.
4. RUSHING SECTION A:
4. RUSHING SECTION A:
It’s easy marks, but only if you’re precise in definitions.
THE 3-STEP METHOD:
THE 3-STEP METHOD:
State the point clearly.
Explain how/why it matters.
Give an example (real-world, case study, or data from source).
This simple 3-step structure is the easiest way to turn a 2-mark idea into a 6-mark answer.
Would you like to study further? Click here for notes and here for topical questions. Good luck! You got this <3
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse