2017 HKDSEGeography Paper 1Level 5 Exemplar 1 & Comments

Paper 1 Level 5 exemplar 1 comments

- In Question 1, the candidate correctly described the spatial distribution of major volcanoes in the Pacific region.

He/she also used his/her geographical knowledge in an appropriate way to compare the formation of volcanoes X

and Y. He/she understood well the negative impacts of the eruption of volcano Y and clearly explained how

technology could reduce such impacts. Finally, he/she thoroughly discussed the opportunities brought about by

volcano Y but should have elaborated on the risks as well.

- In Question 4, the candidate correctly identified the atmospheric radiation represented by ‘P’, ‘Q’ and ‘R’ in

Figure 4a and briefly explained how such radiation activities maintain atmospheric temperatures. He/she

logically described the relationship between human activities and global warming using a range of geographical

concepts. He/she clearly compared the effectiveness of different countries in reducing carbon dioxide emissions

using the information from Table 4c. Finally, he/she discussed in detail why the more developed and less

developed countries should both bear responsibility for alleviating global warming.

- In Question 7, the candidate showed a general understanding of the nutrient cycle of the tropical rainforest

ecosystem and briefly discussed the impact of plantations on the nutrient cycle of the rainforest.

2017 HKDSEGeography Paper 2Level 5 Exemplar 1 & Comments

Paper 2 Level 5 exemplar 1 comments

- The candidate demonstrated sound knowledge of the curriculum and communicated his/her knowledge

and understanding with accurate use of geographical terminology. He/she exhibited a slightly better performance

in the short essay question.

- In Question 1, the candidate demonstrated comprehensive knowledge of the factors causing landslides. He/she

systematically analysed the information provided and logically explained his/her conclusion. However, he/she

should have identified landslide mitigation measures more correctly. Also, he/she failed to show a thorough

understanding of the advantages and constraints of various landslide mitigation measures, which affected his/her

discussion of their applicability at the site shown in Figure 1b.

- In Question 6, the candidate logically analysed, synthesised and interpreted a range of geographical concepts.

He/she demonstrated comprehensive knowledge of the climatic characteristics of northwestern China,

supported by systematic data and logical explanation. He/she also evaluated the significance of climate

in causing severe sandstorms in northwestern China. He/she consistently communicated his/her knowledge

and understanding of the factors causing severe sandstorms in a coherent manner.