Briefing Session on 2015 HKDSE
Geography Examination
(9 & 10 November 2015)
Programme• Report on Examination Statistics
• Comments & Suggestions from the HKDSE Geography Subject
Committee
• Review on the Examination Papers
• Review on Candidates’ Performance
• Review on Marking
• Reminders for Candidates in 2016 Geography Examination
• Revisions on Geography Curriculum, SBA & Public Examination
after New Academic Structure Medium-term Review
• Q & A
2
Report on Examination Statistics
4
Entry Statistics2012 2013 2014 2015
Day Schools
Geog-C 8 814 8 387 7 567 6 995
Geog-E 4 990 4 712 4 354 4 286
Total 13 804 13 099 11 921 11 281
Whole
Group
Geog-C 9 045 9 016 8 275 7 571
Geog-E 5 006 4 921 4 613 4 469
Total 14 051 13 937 12 888 12 040
5
Day Schools Level %2012 2013 2014 2015
5** 0.7 1.0 1.0 1.1
5*+ 3.2 4.0 3.9 4.7
5+ 7.9 9.4 10.4 11.3
4+ 30.3 33.5 35.4 36.2
3+ 61.5 61.3 63.0 63.0
2+ 83.4 84.0 84.8 85.3
1+ 94.7 95.3 95.5 95.3
U 5.3 4.7 4.5 4.7
6
Whole Group Level %2012 2013 2014 2015
5** 0.7 1.0 1.0 1.1
5*+ 3.1 3.9 3.9 4.7
5+ 7.8 9.4 10.3 11.2
4+ 29.9 33.5 35.3 36.0
3+ 61.0 61.3 62.8 62.7
2+ 82.9 83.8 84.4 84.8
1+ 94.4 95.0 95.1 94.9
U 5.6 5.0 4.9 5.1
7
M.C. Statistics2012 2013 2014 2015
Day Schools
Mean (%) 24.2 (60.5) 26.5 (66.2) 26.9 (67.3) 26.0 (65.0)
SD (%) 5.2 (13.0) 5.6 (14.0) 5.2 (13.0) 4.7 (11.8)
Min 3 3 6 1
Max 38 40 39 39
Whole
Group
Mean (%) 24.2 (60.4) 26.5 (66.2) 26.9 (67.2) 26.0 (65.0)
SD (%) 5.2 (13.1) 5.6 (14.0) 5.2 (13.1) 4.7 (11.8)
Min 3 3 6 1
Max 38 40 39 39
8
Performance on Individual QuestionsPaper 1
Q1(18)
Q2(18)
Q3(18)
Q4(18)
Q5(12)
Q6(12)
Q7(12)
Mean Score
(% marks)
9.01
(50.1)
9.27
(51.5)
8.12
(45.1)
9.26
(51.4)
4.77
(39.8)
4.81
(40.1)
3.13
(26.1)
Highest Score
18 18 18 18 12 12 12
9
Performance on Individual QuestionsPaper 2
Q1(18)
Q2(18)
Q3(18)
Q4(18)
Q5(12)
Q6(12)
Q7(12)
Q8(12)
Mean Score
(% marks)
7.06
(39.2)
11.08
(61.6)
8.00
(44.4)
9.14
(50.8)
3.83
(31.9)
3.90
(32.5)
3.27
(27.3)
3.63
(30.3)
Highest Score
17 18 17 18 12 11 12 12
Popularity % of Questions in Paper 1
10
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
Q1Q1Q1Q1 Q2Q2Q2Q2 Q3Q3Q3Q3 Q4Q4Q4Q4 Q5Q5Q5Q5 Q6Q6Q6Q6 Q7Q7Q7Q7
75757575
25252525
43434343
58585858
27272727
55555555
19191919
Popularity % of Questions in Paper 2
11
0000
5555
10101010
15151515
20202020
25252525
30303030
35353535
40404040
45454545
Q1Q1Q1Q1 Q2Q2Q2Q2 Q3Q3Q3Q3 Q4Q4Q4Q4 Q5Q5Q5Q5 Q6Q6Q6Q6 Q7Q7Q7Q7 Q8Q8Q8Q8
27272727
45454545
7777
21212121
40404040
11111111
26262626
22222222
Comments & Suggestions from the
HKDSE Geography
Subject Committee
Subject Committee’s Comments &
Suggestions on Paper-setting
• Questions in the two papers showed a balanced coverage
of the syllabus
• The wording of the questions in the two papers, both the
Chinese and English versions, was appropriate
• The testing of map reading skills should be fine with
more support to the candidates, such as simplifying the
tasks or using sketch maps in appropriate scales
• A clearer definition of the terms used in the questions
13
Subject Committee’s Comments &
Suggestions on Marking
• Members generally supported the revised rubrics for the
marking of higher-order questions as marks should be
awarded more appropriately to answers demonstrating
higher abilities
• The Subject Committee advised setters of short essay
questions to follow the questions directly when setting
the marking scheme, whereas the inclusion of other
relevant points might not be necessary
14
Review on the Examination Papers
Comments from Markers (1): Duration of Papers
16
Slightly
long
4.9%
About
right
93.9%
Slightly
short
1.2%
Paper 1Slightly
long
1.8%
About
right
98.3%
Paper 2
Comments from Markers (2): Level of Difficulty
17
Slightly
difficult
26.8%
About
right
68.3%
Slightly
easy
3.7%
Too
easy
1.2%
Paper 1
Slightly
difficult
17.5%
About
right
77.2%
Slightly
easy
5.3%
Paper 2
Comments from Markers (3): Level of Difficulty
Compared with 2014 Examination
18
Much
higher
1.2%
Slightly
higher
37.8%
About
the
same
34.2%
Slightly
lower
25.6%
Much
lower
1.2%
Paper 1Much
higher
1.8%
Slightly
higher
22.8%
About
the
same
56.1%
Slightly
lower
19.3%
Paper 2
Comments from Markers (4): Papers Reflect
Assessment Aims & Objectives in C & A Guide?
19
Strongly
agree
3.7%
Agree
63.0%
Slighlty
agree
22.2%
Slightly
disagree
9.9%
Disagree
1.2%
Paper 1Strongly
agree
12.3%
Agree
59.7%
Slightly
agree
21.1%
Slightly
disagree
5.3%
Disagree
1.8%
Paper 2
Comments from Markers (5): Papers Well-balanced
in Terms of Curriculum Coverage?
20
Strongly
agree
6.1%
Agree
67.1%
Slighlty
agree
17.1%
Slightly
disagree
7.3%
Disagree
1.2%
Strongly
disagree
1.2%
Paper 1Strongly
agree
12.3%
Agree
56.1%
Slightly
agree
26.3%
Slightly
disagree
3.5%
Disagree
1.8%
Paper 2
Comments from Markers (6): Appropriate
Balance Between Questions Testing Basic
Knowledge/ Skills & Higher-order Skills?
21
Strongly
agree
4.9%
Agree
64.6%
Slighlty
agree
17.1%
Slightly
disagree
7.3%
Disagree
6.1%
Paper 1
Strongly
agree
17.5%
Agree
47.4%
Slightly
agree
26.3%
Slightly
disagree
7.0%
Disagree
1.8%
Paper 2
Comments from Markers (7): Appropriate Allocation
of Marks?
22
Strongly
agree
8.5%
Agree
62.2%
Slighlty
agree
19.5%
Slightly
disagree
6.1%
Disagree
3.7%
Paper 1
Strongly
agree
17.9%
Agree
51.8%
Slightly
agree
21.4%
Slightly
disagree
7.1%
Disagree
1.8%
Paper 2
Comments from Markers (8): Wording of Questions
Clear & Easily Understandable?
23
Strongly
agree
11.1%
Agree
65.4%
Slighlty
agree
17.3%
Slightly
disagree
3.7%
Disagree
1.2%
Strongly
disagree
1.2%
Paper 1
Strongly
agree
15.8%
Agree
57.9%
Slightly
agree
12.3%
Slightly
disagree
14.0%
Paper 2
Comments from Markers (9): Optional Questions at
a Comparable Level of Difficulty?
24
N.A.
17.3%
Strongly
agree
2.5%
Agree
33.3%
Slighlty
agree
24.7%
Slightly
disagree
12.4%
Disagree
8.6%
Strongly
disagree
1.2%
Paper 1
N.A.
18.2%
Strongly
agree
9.1%
Agree
20.0%
Slightly
agree
18.2%
Slightly
disagree
20.0%
Disagree
14.6%
Paper 2
Comments from Markers (10): Two Language
Versions Identical in Meaning?
25
N.A.
21.5%
Agree
10.1%
Strongly
agree
41.8%
Agree
19.0%
Slightly
agree
3.8%
Slightly
disagree
3.8%
Paper 1
N.A.
18.2%
Strongly
agree
10.9%
Agree
34.6%
Slightly
agree
18.2%
Slightly
disagree
12.7%
Disagree
5.5%
Paper 2
Review on Candidates’ Performance
Comments from Markers on Candidates’ Standard
Compared with 2014 Examination
27
N.A.
21.3%Much
better
1.3%
Slightly
better
26.3%
About
the
same
36.3%
Slightly
poorer
15.0%
Paper 1
N.A.
42.9%
Much
better
1.8%
Slightly
better
17.9%
About
the
same
23.2%
Slightly
poorer
14.3%
Paper 2
2015 Examination Report and Question Papers
28
Samples of Candidates’ Performance (1)
29
(http://www.hkeaa.edu.hk/en/hkdse/assessment/subject_information/category_a_subjects/hkdse_subj.html?A2&2&13)
Samples of Candidates’ Performance (2)
30
(http://www.hkeaa.edu.hk/en/hkdse/assessment/subject_information/category_a_subjects/hkdse_subj.html?A2&2&13_25)
Samples of Candidates’ Performance (3)
31
(http://www.hkeaa.edu.hk/en/HKDSE/assessment/subject_information/category_a_subjects/geog/sp/2015.html)
Review on Candidates’
Performance in Paper 1
Section A甲部
33
Section A: Item 16
• About two thirds of candidates wrongly chose Option D as the answer.
• Candidates might have misinterpreted ‘wave frequency’ as a factor
affecting the magnitude of wave energy, when in fact it is the other way
around.
34
Section A: Item 19
• About half of the candidates wrongly chose Option C as the answer.
• Candidates might have misinterpreted ‘stricter carbon emission control in
the USA’, which had no significant effect on the relocation of the IT
industry, as a push factor causing IT plants to relocate from the USA to
China.
35
Section A: Item 30
• A similar number of candidates chose Options A and D as the answer.
• Option D included ‘small annual range of temperature’ which is not the
climatic characteristic of Southern California.
36
Section A: Item 31
• A similar number of
candidates chose
Options C and D as the
answer.
• Candidates wrongly
chose Option C might
have missed the fact
that irrigation system X
(drip irrigation) inputs
much less amount of
water than irrigation
system Y (sprinkler
irrigation), thus the
amount of infiltration by
drip irrigation is also
less than that by
sprinkler irrigation.
37
Section A: Item 32• About half of the
candidates wrongly
chose Option D as the
answer.
• Candidates might
have misinterpreted
location (3), the East
African Highlands as
the extension of
location (2), whereas
the area of rainforests
in location (4) is the
smallest when
compared with
locations (1) and (2).
38
Section A: Item 39• Most candidates wrongly
chose Option B as the answer.
• Candidates might have
misinterpreted the building
design as ‘to enhance the
absorption of carbon dioxide
from the atmosphere’ by the
plants grown on the walls.
• The actual purpose of the
building design is to reduce
heat absorbed by the
building, thus reducing
energy consumed through
the use of air-conditioning.
39
乙部:題 1
40
乙部:題 1(續)
41
乙部:題 1(續)
(a) 參閱圖 1a。描述震央的空間分布。
(b) (i) 比較 X 地與 Y 地海嘯的成因。
42
考生能正確地描述震央的空間分布,但只能簡略地比較X地與Y地海嘯的成因。
乙部:題 1(續)
(b) (ii) 解釋 Y 地海嘯的波浪高度。
(c) (i) 說明 X 地與 Y 地在死亡人數上的差異。
43
考生能正確地解釋Y地波浪高的原因,亦能解釋X地死亡人數較Y地多的原因。
乙部:題 1(續)
(c) (ii) 評估「土地利用分區」這項措施在減輕 X 地海嘯的破壞上的效用。
44
考生能提供「土地利用分區」的例子,亦能簡略地評估其效用。
Section B:
Question 2
45
Section B: Question 2 (cont.)
46
Section B: Question 2 (cont.)(a) (i) Describe the changes in velocity from sites 1 to 7.
(a) (ii) Using map evidence, explain the changes you described in (a) (i).
47
The candidate was
able to describe the
changes in velocity
from sites 1 to 7
and explain the
changes using map
evidence.
Section B: Question 2 (cont.)
(b) (ii) Account for the downstream changes in channel width in terms of discharge and river processes.
48
The candidate was able to describe and explain
the downstream changes in channel width.
Section B: Question 2 (cont.)
(b) (iii) Explain the favourable physical conditions for the formation of depositional features
downstream of site 4. Give map evidence to support your answer.
49
The candidate was not able to quote map evidence correctly to
explain the favourable physical conditions for the formation of
depositional features downstream of site 4.
乙部:題 3
50
乙部:題 3(續)
51
乙部:題 3(續)
(a) (i) 分別描述 X 地區低密度住宅用地及商業用地的分布形態。
(a) (ii) 解釋你在題 (a) (i) 中所描述的土地利用分布形態的優點。
52
考生能引用地圖證據描述及解釋低密度住宅用地及商業用地的分布形態。
乙部:題 3(續)
(b) 引用地圖證據,解釋 X 地區較 Y 地區更適合作為計劃中的填海區的區位及地點優勢。
53
考生能引用地圖證據解釋X地區的區位及地點優勢。
乙部:題 3(續)
(c) 討論 X 地區的土地利用規劃是否符合可持續發展的原則。
54
考生能討論X地區的土地利用規劃能符合可持續發展的原則,但內容欠詳盡。
乙部:題 4
55
乙部:題 4(續)
56
乙部:題 4(續)
(b) (i) 二氧化碳排放量的改變如何導致海冰範圍面積的改變?
57
考生能描述及解釋二氧化碳排放量與海冰範圍面積改變的關係,亦能解釋二氧化碳增加如何加劇温室效應。
乙部:題 4(續)
(b) (ii) 你在題 (a) (ii) 中所找出的海冰範圍面積的改變可如何為北極地區帶來正面及
負面的影響?
58
考生只能簡略地解釋海冰範圍面積的改變可如何為北極地區帶來正面及負面的影響。
乙部:題 4(續)(c) 評估國際合作在控制全球二氧化碳排放上的效用。
59
考生能評估國際合作在控制全球二氧化碳排放上的效用。
丙部:題 5說明1978 年以前影響中國鋼鐵工業空間分布的主要因素。解釋自1978 年至今, 「改革開放」政策如何改變了中國鋼鐵工業的空間分布。
60
考生能說明1978年以前影響中國鋼鐵工業空間分布的主要因素,但可更詳盡地說明政府如何影響工業的空間分布。
丙部:
題 5(續)
61
丙部:題 5(續)
62
考生能解釋自1978 年至今,「改革開放」政策如何改變了中國鋼鐵工業的空間分布,但對「西部大開發」政策的解釋較簡略。
Section C: Question 6How does the physical environment cause high risk of famine in the Sahel region? Evaluate the
effectiveness of biotechnology in lowering the risk of famine in the Sahel region.
63
Section C: Question 6 (cont.)
64
The candidate was able to explain how the physical environment
causes high risk of famine in the Sahel region.
Section C: Question 6 (cont.)
65
Section C:
Question 6
(cont.)
66
Section C: Question 6 (cont.)
67
The candidate was only able to evaluate briefly the effectiveness of
biotechnology in lowering the risk of famine in the Sahel region.
Section C: Question 7Describe and explain the negative socio-economic consequences of large-scale deforestation in
tropical rainforests. Discuss the roles of more developed countries in the deforestation of tropical
rainforests.
68
Section C: Question 7 (cont.)
69
Section C: Question 7 (cont.)
70
The candidate was able to describe and explain the
negative socio-economic consequences of large-scale
deforestation in tropical rainforests.
Section C: Question 7 (cont.)
71
Section C: Question 7 (cont.)
72
The candidate was only able to discuss some of the roles of
more developed countries in the deforestation of tropical
rainforests.
Overall Comments on Candidates’ Performance
Q No. Strengths Weaknesses
1
• Most candidates were able to
describe the spatial distribution
of the epicentres.
• Most candidates were able to
use appropriate geographical
terms to account for the
difference in the death toll
between X and Y.
• Some candidates were not
able to compare the causes of
tsunami at X and Y.
• Most candidates were not able
to explain the wave height in
the tsunami at Y.
• Some candidates failed to
evaluate the effectiveness of
‘land use zoning’ as a measure
to alleviate the damage
caused by tsunami at X in
detail.
73
Overall Comments on Candidates’ Performance
Q No. Strengths Weaknesses
2
• Many candidates were able to
apply data from the question to
describe the changes in
velocity from sites 1 to 7 and
use appropriate geographical
terms to explain the changes.
• Many candidates were able to
use geographical terms to
explain the downstream
changes in channel width.
• Many candidates were not
able to use appropriate map
evidence to explain the
favourable physical conditions
for the formation of
depositional features
downstream of site 4.
74
Overall Comments on Candidates’ Performance
Q No. Strengths Weaknesses
3
• Many candidates were able to
communicate clearly and use
specific terms to describe and
explain the distribution
patterns of low density
residential land use and
commercial land use in area X.
• Some candidates were able to
quote correct map evidence to
explain the locational and site
advantages of area X as a
more suitable reclamation site
than area Y in the Project.
• Many candidates were not
able to discuss clearly whether
the land use planning of area
X aligns with the principles of
sustainable development.
• Many candidates simply
copied the data from Table 3b
as their answers.
75
Overall Comments on Candidates’ Performance
Q No. Strengths Weaknesses
4
• Many candidates were able to
explain how the change in the
amount of carbon dioxide
emission led to the areal
change of sea ice extent and
the negative effect brought
about by such change.
• Many candidates were able to
evaluate the effectiveness of
international cooperation in
controlling global carbon
dioxide emission.
• Many candidates failed to
calculate correctly the area
and percentage change of sea
ice extent; some candidates
did not attempt these two parts
at all.
• Many candidates were not
able to explain the positive
effect brought about by the
areal change of sea ice extent,
or mixed it up with the climatic
change brought about by
global warming.
76
Overall Comments on Candidates’ Performance
Q No. Strengths Weaknesses
5
• Many candidates were able to
explain the major factors
affecting the spatial distribution
of the iron and steel industry in
China before 1978.
• Many candidates were able to
give a brief explanation on how
‘Reform and Opening-up’
policy has changed the spatial
distribution of iron and steel
industry in China since 1978.
• Many candidates were not
able to discuss how the ‘Go
West’ policy further affected
the location of iron and steel
industry in China since 1978.
• Many candidates did not have
a clear understanding of the
historical events affecting the
spatial distribution of the iron
and steel industry in China.
• Some candidates wrongly
quoted Shenzhen as an
example of new iron and steel
centre developed after 1978.
77
Overall Comments on Candidates’ Performance
Q No. Strengths Weaknesses
6
• Many candidates were able to
demonstrate a general
understanding of how the
physical environment causes
high risk of famine in the Sahel
region.
• Many candidates were not
able to give in-depth
evaluation on the effectiveness
of biotechnology in lowering
the risk of famine in the Sahel
region.
• Many candidates were only
able to quote “GM food” as the
example of biotechnology.
78
Overall Comments on Candidates’ Performance
Q No. Weaknesses
7
• Many candidates failed to describe and explain the negative socio-
economic consequences of large-scale deforestation in tropical
rainforests.
• Many candidates mentioned only the physical consequences which
were irrelevant to the question.
• Many candidates were not able to identify clearly the roles of more
developed countries in the deforestation of tropical rainforests.
79
Suggestions for Improvement
Section B:
• Candidates should pay attention to the key words, especially
the geographical terms, provided in the questions and study
carefully the information given to avoid misinterpretation.
• Candidates should answer the questions using the data
provided, instead of copying the information provided in the
questions directly as their answers.
• Candidates should master the skills of map reading, especially
for different types of maps, and the skills of interpreting
photographs and numerical data.
80
Suggestions for Improvement (cont.)
Section C:
• Candidates should make a better use of time in answering the
question.
• Candidates should note the equal weightings for the two parts
of the question and should not elaborate on just one part of
the answer.
• Candidates should give answers systematically, using correct
geographical terms, concepts and perspectives.
• Candidates should study the content of the question carefully
to understand its main points and give relevant answers.
81
Review on Candidates’
Performance in Paper 2
Section D: Question 1
83
Some candidates had a wrong concept that the rock could be easily weathered
because of its well-jointed structure.
(a) (ii) Most candidates were able to state the general characteristics of the
rock type clearly.
(a) (i) Most candidates were able
to identify the rock type.
Section D: Question 1 (cont.)
84
(a) (iii) Most candidates were able to describe the formation of the rock with the proper
use of geographical terms.
Proper use of
geographical
terms
Could not differentiate ‘lava’ & ‘magma’
Irrelevant
Some candidates explained the formation of columnar joints or the
mechanism of plate movement.
Section D: Question 1 (cont.)
85
Photograph 1b shows that mass wasting has occurred in area X.
(b) (i) Quite a number of candidates were able to identify rockfall.
Photograph
evidence
Not many candidates were able to give photograph evidence precisely & specifically.
Candidates wrongly used the warning sign in Photograph 1c as
evidence of mass wasting.
Section D: Question 1 (cont.)
86
(b) (ii) Candidates were able to describe the general natural factors of the mass wasting.
Only a few candidates were able to apply the concept of stress and strength.
Photograph
evidence
General
natural
factors
Section D: Question 1 (cont.)
87
(b) (ii) Many candidates confused ‘mass wasting’ with ‘weathering’ or ‘rainsplash erosion’.
Most candidates were not able to quote relevant photograph evidence to support
their answers.
General
explanation
Weathering
Section D: Question 1 (cont.)
88
(c) Many candidates did not take into consideration the specific land use and environment
in their discussion.
Merely
recited
different
landslide
mitigation
measures
Section D: Question 1 (cont.)
89
(c) Candidates were expected to make concrete judgement when asked to discuss the
appropriateness of a measure.
Concrete
judgement
Specific land use
& environment
Purpose & function of the measure
Section D: Question 1 (cont.)
90
(c) Ambiguous conclusion, such as “on one hand, it’s appropriate; but on the other
hand, it’s inappropriate”, was commonly found.
Purpose & function
of the measure
Section D: Question 2
91
(a) (i) Candidates were able to match the data sets correctly.
(a) (ii) Candidates were able to use proper geographical terms and account for the
difference in temperature.
Proper
geographical
terms, with
calculations
Distance
from the sea
Latitudinal difference
Section D: Question 2 (cont.)
92
(a) (ii) Some candidates failed to explain the moderating effect.
Failed to explain
the moderating
effect
Unsystematic
explanations
Irrelevant
Section D: Question 2 (cont.)
93
(b) Refer to Figure 2a and Table 2c. Account for the patterns of prevailing winds of city X in
July and December respectively.
• Most candidates were able to identify the prevailing wind patterns.
• Some of them were only able to give a brief description of monsoons.
• They should give a more detailed explanation on the formation of monsoons.
Section D: Question 2 (cont.)
94
(b) Candidates were quite common in mixing up planetary wind belts and monsoons.
Explanation
Explanation
Planetary
wind belt
Planetary
wind belt
Description of wind directions
Description of wind directions
Section D: Question 2 (cont.)
95
(c) (i) Most candidates were able to mention ‘drought’ or ‘sandstorm’
as the climatic hazard.
However, a few candidates stated irrelevant hazards, such as
flooding, cold surge, storm, tropical cyclone, etc.
(c) (ii) Many
candidates were
able to explain
the influence of
offshore winds in
causing drought.
Explanation
Role of wind
Role of wind
Section D: Question 2 (cont.)
96
(c) (ii) Some candidates were not able to discuss clearly the more complicated role of
wind in the formation of sandstorm.
Discussion of
the indirect
role of wind,
e.g. influence
on vegetation
needed
The role of
wind in the
formation
of
sandstorms
Section D: Question 3
97
(a) (i) A high proportion of
candidates were able
to draw the graph
correctly with
appropriate labelling.
A few candidates plotted the
starting point of the curves
wrongly at zero value.
Section D: Question 3 (cont.)
98
(a) (i) A few candidates drew the graph inside the Answer Book.
Most of the curves were inaccurately plotted.
Section D: Question 3 (cont.)
99
(a) (ii) Most candidates were able to describe the changing importance of the two public
transport modes.
Description
of changing
importance
Some
candidates
were able to
calculate the
percentage
changes.
Section D: Question 3 (cont.)
100
(b) (i) In general, candidates were able to mention the advantages of railways.
Section D: Question 3 (cont.)
101
(b) (i) However, environmental-friendly would not bring about the changes if without
increasing environmental awareness of passengers.
Section D: Question 3 (cont.)
102
(b) (ii) Candidates were weak in spatial concepts:
• They were not able to use proper geographical terms in describing spatial
changes.
• Many of them simply copied the names of railways and new towns from
Figure 3b.
General
spatial
description
Section D: Question 3 (cont.)
103
(c) Many candidates
were able to give
daily examples,
such as interchange
facilities or
concession fares, as
the strengthening of
cooperation. Most candidates showed inadequate understanding of
the efficiency of public transport.
No explanation
Irrelevant
Irrelevant
Section D: Question 3 (cont.)
104
Poor
explanation
UnsoundContradictory
Service
providers
Passengers
Efficiency
of public
transport
Section D: Question 3 (cont.)
105
(c) Only a small
proportion of
candidates were
able to discuss both
the competitive
and complementary
roles of railways and
franchised buses and
make sound
discussion and
evaluation.
Regions not
served by
railways
Section not
over-saturated
Section over-
saturated
Few candidates could make use of the data given in their discussion.
Section D: Question 4
106
(a) (i) Most candidates were able to name the cities but some failed to calculate the
difference correctly.
(a) (ii) some candidates merely compared the variations of concentration among cities.
They were not able to describe the spatial variations in the region appropriately.
Named the cities only
Section D: Question 4 (cont.)
107
(a) (iii) In general, candidates
explained the general
causes of air pollution
only.
• Not specifically referring
to nitrogen dioxide
• Without referring to the
data given
Section D: Question 4 (cont.)
108
(a) (iii) Candidates should make better use of the data and information provided to
support their answers.
Irrelevant
Irrelevant
Unable to
make logical
inference
Section D:
Question 4
(cont.)
109
Section D: Question 4 (cont.)
110
(b) (i) Most candidates were able to describe the general increase or decrease in trends.
The extent
of changes
Section D: Question 4 (cont.)
111
(b) (ii) Most candidates were able to explain the decreasing trend of the concentration
of nitrogen dioxide.
General
explanation
Section D: Question 4 (cont.)
112
(b) (ii) Only few candidates were able to explain the simultaneous increasing trend
of gross industrial output.
Many candidates overlooked the non-governmental factors.
Candidates should note that the discussion of ‘relative importance’ should
include factors other than government policy.
Non-governmental
factors
Decreasing trend of nitrogen dioxide concentration
Section E: Question 5
113
Explain the occurrence of intensive weathering in granite areas in Hong Kong.
Many candidates described only the characteristics of granite.
Characteristics
of granite
Some candidates
confused the concept
of ‘weathering’ with
‘erosion’.
Section E: Question 5 (cont.)
114
Many candidates described different physical weathering processes of rocks but failed to
explain the causes of intensive weathering.
Physical
weathering
processes
Wrong concept
Section E: Question 5 (cont.)
115
Only a few candidates were able to state that chemical weathering was of greater importance
than physical weathering in granite areas in hot and humid environments.
Climatic
conditions
Structure of
granite
Chemical
composition
of granite
Section E: Question 5 (cont.)
116
Discuss the relative importance of weathering in shaping the landforms in Hong Kong.
Many candidates gave simple and general descriptions of relief in granite areas in Hong
Kong only.
General
descriptions of
influence of
rock types
Section E: Question 5 (cont.)
117
A high proportion of candidates did not understand the role of weathering in shaping
the overall landforms in Hong Kong.
Irrelevant
Merely describing
the formation of
landform features
Section E: Question 5 (cont.)
118
Candidates did not show a good understanding of how weathering worked with the other
denudation processes, i.e. erosion and mass movement, in shaping landforms.
Roles of
weathering
and erosion
Brief & general
description of
badland
formation
Section E: Question 5 (cont.)
119
Some candidates described the formation of coastal erosion features which was of little
relevance to this question.
Human
influence
Irrelevant
Section E: Question 5 (cont.)
120
Only a few candidates were
able to mention that intensive
weathering in Hong Kong
provided a large amount of
weathered materials for
erosion and mass movement.
Section E: Question 6
121
Many candidates were able to describe the general spatial pattern of planetary wind belts.
General
spatial pattern
of planetary
wind belts
Section E: Question 6 (cont.)
122
• Some candidates drew
diagrams to illustrate the
planetary wind systems.
• Written descriptions and
explanations are essential
in answering short essay
question.
Section E: Question 6 (cont.)
123
• A few candidates were able to explain the formation of planetary winds clearly and
systematically.
• Candidates were particularly weak in explaining subtropical high pressure and
circumpolar low pressure belts.
• Candidates should note that besides solar energy, convergence and divergence of air
are important factors affecting air pressure.
Explanation
was brief &
general
Section E: Question 6 (cont.)
124
• In general, candidates did not have the concept of global climate.
• A high proportion of candidates were neither able to describe the distribution of global
climatic zones, nor able to describe the climatic characteristics in these zones.
Explanation
needed
Able to discuss
other climatic
factors
Section E: Question 6 (cont.)
125
• Candidates were able to explain the influence of onshore and offshore winds on
precipitation; or
• the seasonal shifting of planetary wind belts on the precipitation patterns of some
zones, e.g. the Mediterranean region.
Section E: Question 6 (cont.)
126
• Candidates should note that the discussion of ‘relative importance’ should include
the influences of other factors.
• Candidates should point out solar energy as the most influential factor in controlling
global climate.
Section E: Question 7
127
Candidates should describe the factors for the development of the logistics industry,
e.g. communication systems and linkages, legal systems, supply chain management and
technology, etc.
General factors
for the
development of
Hong Kong as a
port
Some gave
Yuen Long
Logistics Park
as example
General
examples
Section E: Question 7 (cont.)
128
• Candidates lacked a good understanding of the transport infrastructure development
in the Zhujiang Delta Region.
• Discussions were mostly brief and superficial.
• Mainly focused on competition between the two regions.
Negative
impact
Positive
impactBrief &
general
discussion
Section E: Question 7 (cont.)
129
Candidates were weak in giving examples of transport infrastructure development in the
Zhujiang Delta Region.
General
explanation
Section E: Question 7 (cont.)
130
Irrelevant examples, such as High Speed Railway or the third runway, were found in
candidates’ answers.
Irrelevant example
Section E: Question 7 (cont.)
131
Not many candidates demonstrated a good understanding of relevant concepts, such as
hinterland and regional cooperation.
Section E: Question 8
132
Candidates should have a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the
Zhujiang Delta Region.
Superficial
explanation
of common
industrial
locational
factors
Section E: Question 8 (cont.)
133
• Not many candidates were able to give recent examples of major industries in
the Zhujiang Delta Region.
• Candidates of average performance were able to mention briefly labour
shortage and rising wages, pollution control and rising land rent, etc.
• Only a small proportion of candidates were able to give in-depth
explanations.
Brief
descriptions
Section E: Question 8 (cont.)
134
Some candidates described challenges to developments in the Zhujiang Delta Region as a
lack of capital, low education levels, lack of technology and poor infrastructure, etc.
Candidates should keep themselves continuously updated with the contemporary
development in the Zhujiang Delta Region.
Section E: Question 8 (cont.)
135
An overwhelming majority of candidates
showed little understanding of
‘branding strategy’.
Examples
Section E: Question 8 (cont.)
136
For those with a better understanding of ‘branding’, their discussions were often about
the advantages and limitations of developing brands in China.
Irrelevant example
Limitations
of branding
Section E: Question 8 (cont.)
137
Discussion
on the
effectiveness
of the
strategy in
tackling the
challenges
Example
Section E: Question 8 (cont.)
138
Concrete &
relevant
arguments
Examples
General Comments and Recommendations
• Candidates should refer to the information provided in answering
data-based questions.
– They should strengthen their skills in interpreting and
extracting useful data and information from graphs,
photographs and maps, etc.
– They should also learn to apply geographical knowledge and
concepts to specific situations or cases in the questions.
• Candidates were generally weak in spatial concepts.
– They should learn to describe spatial distribution by using
appropriate geographical terms.
• Candidates should organise and present their ideas systematically,
especially in answering the short essay questions.
139
General Comments and Recommendations (cont.)
• Candidates were weak in making judgement of appropriateness or
evaluating relative importance.
– They should strengthen their ability in reasoning and
argumentation.
– They should learn to put forward concrete arguments and proof
and state their stands clearly and logically.
– They should avoid giving vague and ambiguous arguments and
conclusions.
– They should also be aware of the latest development in Hong
Kong and the Zhujiang Delta Region.
140
General Comments and Recommendations (cont.)
• Candidates should avoid using ‘common sense’ in answering
questions, especially for questions in the two electives of
‘Transport’ and ‘Regional Study of Zhujiang Delta’.
– They should show a solid foundation in geographical concepts in
their answers and be able to use accurate and specific
geographical terms.
– They should also be aware of the latest development in Hong
Kong and the Zhujiang Delta Region.
141
Review on Marking
General Comments from Markers
on the Marking Scheme
143
1 2 3 4 5 6
Allowed reasonable degree of discretion
Catered for different approaches in answering
Main points for mark awards clearly stated
Clear and concise language used
Systematic layout
4.40
4.57
4.71
4.78
4.76
Strongly Strongly Disagree Agree
Reminders for Candidates in
2016 Geography Examination
• Self-made transparent plastic sheets with gridlines are NOT
allowed
• DO NOT use colour pencils, colour marker pens or highlighters
• CLEAR HANDWRITING is essential for accurate marking
• Mark CAREFULLY & ACCURATELY the question number box on
EACH PAGE of the Answer Book
• Study carefully the 2016 Handbook for Candidates which will
be available in mid-December 2015
– http://www.hkeaa.edu.hk/en/hkdse/admin/student_s_handbook/
– http://www.hkeaa.edu.hk/tc/hkdse/admin/student_s_handbook/
144
Revisions on SBA & Public Examination after
New Academic Structure Medium-term Review
145
(http://gia.info.gov.hk/general/201504/17/P201504170346_0346_145003.pdf)
Revisions on Curriculum after New Academic
Structure Medium-term Review
• Revising two compulsory (‘Global Warming’ and ‘River & Coast’)
and three elective modules (‘Weather & Climate’, ‘Transport’ and
‘Zhujiang Delta’)
• To be implemented at S4 in 2018/19; 2021 HKDSE Examination
• For details, refer to Annex 1 of the Geography Questionnaire on
“School Survey on the New Academic Structure Medium-term
Review”
(http://334.edb.hkedcity.net/doc/eng/schoolsurvey_medium_term2/Q_Geog_Eng
.pdf)
146
For enquiries and suggestions, please contact:
Patrick Tam
Manager-Assessment Development (Geography), HKEAA
Direct Line: 3628 8013
E-mail: [email protected]
Thank You for Your Participation
147