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Date May 2022 Marks available 4 Reference code 22M.2.bp.2
Level SL and HL Paper 2 Time zone
Command term Explain Question number 2 Adapted from N/A

Question

Outline what is meant by terrestrial albedo. 

[2]
a.

Suggest how climate change may cause spatial changes in biomes.

[2]
b.i.

Suggest how climate change may cause spatial changes in animal migration patterns.

[2]
b.ii.

Explain two ways in which higher temperatures could increase the incidence of health hazards on people.

Way 1:

 

 

Way 2:

 

 

[4]
c.

Markscheme

A measurement of the amount of sunlight reflected [1].

Development could include: reference to earth/land/sea surfaces [1] / the amount of energy reflected back as a % of incoming solar radiation (measured from 0-1) [1].

a.

Award [1] for a valid spatial change and [1] for additional causal detail.

For example: deserts and semi deserts expand [1] as climate change reduces rainfall totals and reliability [1].

Other possibilities include:

b.i.

Award [1] for a valid spatial change and [1] for additional causal detail.

For example: Climate change is driving some species to migrate to new locations especially if they prefer cold climates [1] by moving to higher latitudes or higher altitudes (e.g. Atlantic Mackerel).

Other possibilities include:

b.ii.

In each case, award [1] for a valid distinct way linked to higher temperatures and [1] for additional explanation/exemplification.

For example: Increased temperature in some regions increase the incidence of vector-borne diseases [1] carried by mosquitoes like dengue fever and the Zika virus [1].

Other possibilities include:

c.

Examiners report

The responses showed a good understanding of the term albedo, and the majority were able to address the terrestrial element of the phrase.

a.

Both sub-sections of this question presented problems for the candidates. Many did not possess the body of knowledge required, especially in the context of biomes. In addition, a number strayed into temporal changes when examining migration patterns. The guide identifies the body of knowledge required in Unit 2:2 of Geographic perspectives.

In (b)i a minority commented on the expansion of deserts or changes in the location and extent of the tundra and taiga. However, the causal element of the question was not usually addressed to acquire the second mark.

b.i.

Candidates were more successful in (b)ii with a basic comment on animals migrating to environments that suit their environmental requirements, but explanations were frequently superficial. The better answers usually were on fish migrations and ocean warming.

b.ii.

Answers to this question were more secure and candidates generally scored well. Many candidates referred to the link between higher temperatures and the distribution of mosquitos, the increased incidence of heatwaves and changing food production. Some commented on extreme weather events and rising sea level, with varying success in their linkage to higher temperatures. A substantial number however did not provide comment on the resultant health hazard. For example, candidates would comment on the spread of mosquitos but not outline the link to malaria as a health hazard.

c.

Syllabus sections

Unit 2: Global climate—vulnerability and resilience » 2.2. Consequences of global climate change » 2.2.2. Impacts of climate change on people and places
Unit 2: Global climate—vulnerability and resilience » 2.2. Consequences of global climate change
Unit 2: Global climate—vulnerability and resilience

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