| Date | November 2020 | Marks available | 6 | Reference code | 20N.1.bp.13 |
| Level | SL and HL | Paper | 1 | Time zone | |
| Command term | Explain | Question number | 13 | Adapted from | N/A |
Question
The diagram shows a planned model of a superblock, part of an initiative to create sustainable smart cities.
[Source: Superblock Model diagram, Barcelona Urban Ecology Agency.]
Identify two types of vehicle allowed within the superblock model.
Determine the number of residents living in each superblock (as enclosed by the marked roads).
Outline one way in which the superblock model could modify the microclimate of an urban area.
Explain two ways in which technologies can be used by urban planners to manage smart cities such as this more sustainably.
Markscheme
Award [1] for any two, and [0] for only one.
bicycles / urban and emergency services / residents’ vehicles (do not accept cars)
900
Award [1] for a valid environmental consequence of the superblock model and [1]for a link to microclimate.
For example: Less motorised vehicles reduces emissions [1], which lowers air temperature [1] / which improves air quality [1].
Other ways include:
- wind patterns (decrease / funneling)
- changing albedo as road surface changed for pedestrianization
In each case, award [1] for a correct way and up to [2] for development / explanation / exemplification linked to sustainability.
For example: Urban planners can use satellite data to monitor traffic [1]. This lets drivers know where to go to keep the city moving [1], which is vital in cities that can become over congested [1].
Other examples include but are not limited to
- scheduling waste collections
- parking availability
- irrigation controls for vertical/ roof-top gardens.
- driverless cars
- smart meters
- technologies linked to increasing sustainability eg e.v. charging stations
Do not accept general eco-city points like solar panels/power or use of public transport as these are not Smart City technologies.
Examiners report
Most candidates answered this correctly although a few did not quote directly from the diagram.
Most candidates answered this correctly.
Many had good knowledge of how vehicle emissions contribute to the urban heat island. However, there is still the misconception that carbon dioxide emissions are the main problem at a local level.
Many candidates had a poor understanding of smart cities and gave answers that were not relevant to the question and more relevant to eco-cities, for example solar panels and public transport. Those that attempted to link waste collections, traffic lights, electric vehicles with some use of technology did score some marks.
