Lecture Notes: Approaching IGCSE Geography Paper 4

Introduction

• Aim: Guide on approaching IGCSE Geography Paper 4.
• Purpose: Offer guidance, hints, and tips for question types.
• Future Content: More detailed videos will be produced, e.g., on rivers.

Overview of Paper 4

• Purpose: Alternative to coursework.
• Format: Two compulsory 30-mark questions, lasting 90 minutes.
• Content: One human and one physical investigation.
• Marking: Reflects skills required in component 3 coursework.

Types of Questions

• Hypothesis Formation: Prediction based on geographical theory.
  • Examples: Changes along a river, comparing locations or time periods.
• Skill and Theory Questions: Short, usually 1-4 marks.
  • Requires knowledge of geographical theory and common sense.

Approaching Different Sections

Hypotheses

• Definition: A prediction of data outcome based on geographical theory.
• Examples: A range of past paper examples provided.

Coursework Data Collection Skills

• Sampling Techniques:
  • Systematic: Regular intervals (e.g., every 5th person).
  • Random: Equal chance for everyone.
  • Stratified: Categories/groups are defined.
• Data Types:
  • Primary vs. Secondary: Collected vs. pre-existing data.
  • Quantitative vs. Qualitative: Numbers vs. opinions.

Risk Assessments

• Considerations:
  • Weather, accessibility, health and safety.
  • Example: Slippery rocks, cold weather.

Pilot Studies

• Purpose: Trial methods, assess resource needs, familiarize with equipment.

Data Collection Questions

• Task: Describe data collection methods.
  • Requires step-by-step equipment and method writing.
• Common Investigations: Rivers, coasts, human geography inquiries.

Evaluation of Methods

• Assess Strengths and Weaknesses: Reliability, improvements, human error.

Data Presentation

• Tasks: Complete graphs, charts, calculations.
  • Requires practice to master different techniques.

Data Analysis and Conclusion

• Prove/Disprove Hypotheses: Use specific data as evidence.
• Marking: Clear statement of hypothesis outcome, supported by data evidence.

General Tips

• Practice is crucial across all sections.
• Incorporate Mark Schemes: Into revision notes.

Conclusion

• Final Advice: Practice and review past papers.
• Further Learning: Watch additional videos for specific investigations.