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Pearson Edexcel GCSE (9-1) Geography B (1GB0) · Spec 7, 8, 9 and dm

Paper 3 Section D: making a geographical decision

Read the notes, then try the questions. Each one is marked the moment you press Check, and shows the right answer and why.

Key ideas

  • Question 4 asks you to select ONE of three options in the booklet and justify it. It is worth 12 marks plus 4 for spelling, punctuation and grammar.
  • It uses ideas from Topics 7, 8 and 9. The booklet gives the issue, and you use its evidence and your own course knowledge.
  • A strong answer states the decision, supports it with evidence and ideas, deals with the counter-argument, and ends by returning to the choice.
  • Give a reasoned case for turning down each of the other two options, using evidence. One dismissive sentence is not enough.
  • Every option has weaknesses. Admit the weaknesses of your choice and explain why it is still best.
  • A stakeholder is a person or group affected by a scheme. Each stakeholder's view has a reason that is tied to the place.

Key terms

Stakeholder
A person or group affected by a decision.
Sustainable development
Development that meets the needs of the present without harming the ability of future generations to meet their own.
Counter-argument
A point that goes against your choice.
Justify
Give reasons, backed by evidence, for your choice.
Multi-use
A scheme that joins several uses so that each one helps the others.

Common mistakes

  • Restating the option's wording and calling it a justification.
  • Giving a short paragraph on all three options. A focused, supported case for one option is stronger.
  • Saying the best option has no weaknesses.

Exam tip

Select and justify is used only in Paper 3 Q4. Cite figure numbers from the booklet and use course terms such as carbon sink or named ideas, because both are rewarded. It is worth 16 of the 64 marks on the paper, so give it a good share of your time.

Free practice questions

7 questions, 14 marks. Answer, then press Check. The marking guide explains how the marks are worked out. Nothing is saved.

  1. Question 1 · Put in order[1 mark]

    Put the steps of a good decision answer in order.

    Use the arrows to put these in the right order, first at the top.

    1. 1Read the issue and the resources
    2. 2State your decision
    3. 3Conclude by returning to your decision
    4. 4Support it with evidence and own understanding
    5. 5Deal with the counter-argument
  2. Question 2 · True or false[3 marks]

    Decide whether each statement about stakeholder views is true or false.

    1. A stakeholder's view only needs to say what they think, not why.

    2. Generic points that fit any place earn little credit.

    3. Sustainable development meets present needs without harming future generations.

  3. Question 3 · Choose more than one[2 marks]

    Which TWO strengthen a decision answer?

    Choose 2.

  4. Question 4 · Fill the gaps[2 marks]

    A ___ is a person or group affected by a scheme; their ___ often conflicts with other groups.

    Word bank: booklet · stakeholder · view

  5. Question 5 · Matching[3 marks]

    Match each term to its meaning.

  6. Question 6 · Choose more than one[2 marks]

    Which TWO are developed reasons for a stakeholder's view of a new reservoir?

    Choose 2.

  7. Question 7 · Multiple choice[1 mark]

    Which reason for a stakeholder's view is tied to the place?