Explain how one environmental factor and one political factor can lead to a decline in food production.

Examine the geographic factors responsible for the incidence and transmission of one named disease (vector-borne, water-borne or sexually transmitted).

In each case, award [1] for identification of an appropriate factor and [2] for explaining a link to decline in food production.

Environmental causes might include drought or other natural hazards, such as earthquakes, hurricanes, pests and diseases.

Political causes might include military conflict, corruption and political instability.

For example (environmental): prolonged drought (eg in Ethiopia) [1] has caused soils and watercourses to dry up [1]. So, food crops/animals/cattle have died, causing severe food shortages [1].

There are a variety of geographic factors, including environmental, demographic, economic and political. The relative importance of these factors will depend on the disease chosen and examples used.

Good responses might consider the incidence of the chosen disease at a variety of scales, and relate this to a variety of different factors. Another approach might be to compare the relative importance of the factors in contrasting place contexts, or to examine how the factors are interrelated (eg the way poverty and poor water quality are mutually reinforcing).

Responses at band D are likely to describe some factors that influence the incidence and transmission of the disease.

At band E, expect either a detailed explanation of the factors affecting the incidence and transmission of the diseases or an examination of the complexity and interrelations between the factors.

At band F, expect both.

Marks should be allocated according to the Paper 2 markbands (available under the "Your tests" tab > supplemental materials).