Geography · 2003 · May · Paper 2 · HLSL · Markscheme

MARKSCHEME May 2003 GEOGRAPHY Higher Level and Standard Level Paper 2 22 pages M03/320/HS(2)M+ INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE BACCALAURÉAT INTERNATIONAL BACHILLERATO INTERNACIONALc SECTION A A1. Drainage basins and their management (a) Essay [20 marks] An alluvial river “flows upon a thick accumulation of alluvial deposits constructed by the river itself in earlier stages of its activity”. Describe and account for the landforms associated with alluvial rivers and discuss the implications for land use. It would be expected that responses woul d describe and provide detailed explanations for the flood plain itself, with all its associ ated features such as meanders, scrolls, ox-bow lakes, levees, deltas and for the bluffs marking the edge of the valley. A variety of approaches could be adopted in response to the second part of the question, but it would be expected that all would show an awareness of the attraction of the flat plain with deep fertile soils and high water table for agriculture and also for residential and commercial buildings and transport links (ease of constructi on) and recreational purposes. However, any development w ould have to be weighed against the disadvantages arising from the constant dang er of flooding, the unstable river courses, unconsolidated deposits and the additional costs arising from the implementation of flood preventative measures. The river bluffs could attract residential development as they offer scenic views of the valley, but such development could be hampered by the steep slopes. It would not be necessary that the marks be allocated equally between the two parts of the question – some adjustment would be possi ble. However, the key to this question is that it concerns a river only on its flood pl ain – only that part of any response that recognizes this should be marked. The marks should be allocated according to the markbands. – 2 – M03/320/HS(2)M+