Marking instructions

Markers must apply the descriptors in line with the general marking guidance and the qualities outlined in the levels-based mark scheme below.

Indicative content guidance

The indicative content below is not prescriptive and candidates are not required to include all of it. Other relevant material not suggested below must also be credited. Relevant points may include:

Likely HR for discussion include: freedom of speech, right to education, equality for women.
The UDHR is not legally binding so countries can adapt their interpretation of it according to their needs/agendas.
Some emerging powers have transitioned to more democratic governments, supporting human right to freedom of speech, for example in election campaigns in India and Brazil.
Levels of development may hold back countries from implementing desirable human rights like primary education for all.
Rights for women are limited in Saudi Arabia due to interpretations of Islam by religious and state leadership.
More authoritarian governments like China and North Korea do not allow any discussion of politics, restricting freedom of speech.
In the 1950s, 60s and 70s, South Korea and Singapore pushed through economic reform and did not allow people to speak out for fear of encouraging communism.
Freedom of speech (first amendment in USA and article 19 in UDHR) may be used as an excuse for expression of racist views and is likely to lead to opposition so governments seek to restrict right to speak.
In the past, radical imams in UK have encouraged militant Islamism and have lost their right to preach, and some are now in prison, because government is fearful of others joining their cause or ISIS in Syria/Iraq, or of bombings/ violence in UK.
There is a tension between the right to say what you think and the duties and responsibilities to prevent incitement to hate, for example.

Do not expect separate discussion of definition and protection of human rights, but do expect some definition of what rights are being talked about for upper L2 and L3 answers.

6-8 Marks Level Description:

Demonstrates accurate and relevant geographical knowledge and understanding throughout. (AO1)
Understanding addresses a broad range of geographical ideas, which are detailed and fully developed. (AO1)

Human Rights (Edexcel A Level Geography)

Topic Questions