Examine the view that rapid population growth will prevent some countries from meeting their Millennium Development Goals.

Responses would be expected to show a clear understanding of the MDGs.

Responses may show that increased population numbers could be an obstacle to health, welfare and education provision, especially where there is poor governance of resources. However, there are other issues to consider, such as growing wealth inequalities, innovation resulting from population growth, corruption, civil war.

It is expected that there should be some discussion here about the link between population growth and poverty. Reducing population is not an MDG; rather it is an expected outcome that will become evident as countries reach their MDGs.

The strongest answers may conclude that some MDGs are easier to reach than others or that rapid population growth in some countries may have the opposite effect.

Responses presenting accurate, specific and well-detailed knowledge and understanding of MDGs with relevant examples and evaluation of the links with rapid population growth will reach level E or F.

Marks should be allocated according to the markbands.

While the candidates understood the MDGs, there was a weak treatment of how rapid population growth will prevent countries from meeting the goals. Arguments tended to be unsubstantiated and lacked sound examples.