Synoptic assessment

1
Synoptic assessment
2
The essays (1)

• 1. The extent to which tectonic processes
  represent hazards depends on when and where they
  are experienced. Discuss this statement.
• 2. Critically evaluate the possible effects of
  the phenomenon known as global warming, and
  suggest possible responses to them.
• 3. There has been debate over the present-day
  characteristics of the biome of tropical regions.
  For some people they are viewed as a natural
  response to the climate of the area, whereas for
  others they are regarded as a product of human
  interference. Discuss this statement in the
  context of the tropical biome you have studied.

3
The essays (2)

• 4. Urban problems are the same the world over
  and require the same solutions. To what extent
  do you agree with this view?
• 5. Discuss the roles and relative importance of
  transnational corporations (TNCs) and newly
  industrialising countries (NICs) in the changing
  global economy.
• 6. For a conflict over the use of a local
  resource, analyse the causes of the conflict and
  assess the extent to which it has been/can be
  resolved to the satisfaction of all those
  concerned.

4
The mark scheme (1)

• Level 1.
• The answer shows a basic grasp of concepts and
  ideas, but points lack development or depth.
• Explanations are incomplete and arguments partial
  and lack coherent organisation or reasoned
  conclusions.
• Examples are superficial.
• There is no evidence of synopticity

5
The mark scheme (2)

• Level 2.
• The answer is relevant and accurate, and shows
  reasonable knowledge and critical understanding
  of concepts and principles with some use of
  specialist vocabulary.
• Arguments are not fully developed and the
  organisation of ideas and the use of examples and
  general theories show imbalances.
• Some ability to identify, interpret and
  synthesise some of the material.
• Limited ability to understand the roles of
  values, attitudes and decision-making processes.
• Sketch maps/diagrams are not used effectively.
• Evidence of synopticity is limited.

6
The mark scheme (3)

• Level 3
• Sound and frequent evidence of thorough, detailed
  and accurate knowledge and critical understanding
  of concepts and principles, and of specialist
  vocabulary.
• Explanations, arguments and assessments or
  evaluations are direct, logical, purposeful and
  generally balanced.
• Some ability to identify, interpret and
  synthesise a range of material.
• Some ability to understand the roles of values,
  attitudes and decision-making processes.
• Examples are developed and sketch maps/diagrams
  are used effectively.
• There is strong evidence of synopticity

7
The mark scheme (4)

• Level 4.
• Strong evidence of thorough, detailed and
  accurate knowledge and critical understanding of
  concepts and principles and of specialist
  vocabulary.
• Explanations, arguments and assessments or
  evaluations are direct, logical, perceptive,
  purposeful, and show both balance and flair.
• There is a high level of insight, and an ability
  to identify, interpret and synthesise a wide
  range of material with creativity.
• Evidence of maturity in understanding the role of
  values, attitudes and decision-making processes.
• Examples are well-developed and sketch
  maps/diagrams are fully integrated.
• The answer is fully synoptic.