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.

Responses that demonstrate only AO1 without any AO2 should be awarded marks as follows:

Level 1 AO1 performance: 1 mark
Level 2 AO1 performance: 2 marks
Level 3 AO1 performance: 3 marks.

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.

Please remember that the descriptor provides guidance as to the appropriate level. Bullet points covering indicative content do not translate directly into marks.

Relevant points may include:

AO1

Super/emerging power resource demands (food, fossil fuels, land, water, minerals) cause environmental degradation/increased carbon emissions.
Super/emerging powers play a key role in international decision-making concerning resources which can contribute to tensions (e.g. Oil, WTO).
Global influence is contested in a number of economic, environmental and political spheres, e.g. counterfeiting, trade relationships.
Political spheres of influence can be contested leading to tensions/conflict over territory/resources, e.g. Arctic, Spratley Islands, Pakistan/India.

AO2

Resource needs of super/emerging powers are large and growing, as populations and economies require food, water, fuel. So superpowers search for secure supplies at the best possible price.
For example the USA has seen Middle East and Pacific regions as its own sphere of influence, for supplies of oil etc, now challenged by China as it seeks to establish a blue water navy to secure resources, leading to tension. Prices changes add to tensions.
Tensions may be experienced both by other superpowers (USA/China/EU) and other countries (costs of food and fuel rising in UK, USA and China).
Heavy military presence in Pacific of USA (bases and aircraft carriers) and China (growing size of navy), and nuclear weapons in hands of all main super powers, plus North Korea and others are sources of tension.
Clashes in Ukraine following annexation of Crimea by Russia (land) has added to tensions with EU, also over energy resources (gas) and Syria.
Massive demand for resources (e.g. copper, nickel, oil) can lead to price rises, and possibly tensions, e.g. Chinese investment in farming in Ghana. Arctic is a likely site for future clashes over territory and resources.
Chinese investment of funds around the world creates tensions (e.g. Thames Water, Hinkley Point nuclear power plant).
Climate change: role of USA is ambivalent and its 2017 withdrawal from Paris Agreement, has allowed China to claim leadership.

Assessment: Many approaches could be taken:

By super/emerging power: USA has been leading superpower and sought to control supplies, e.g.energy. Russia and China have not sought alliances but seek to secure their own interests. Tensions can therefore occur.
By contrasting economic and environmental tensions, which could be at any level n local, national or international.
By comparing past and present, and suggesting possible futures.

Note there is a lot to cover here, so do not expect even Level 3 answers to cover both superpowers and emerging powers separately, though some may do so.

9-12 Marks Level Description:

Demonstrates accurate and relevant geographical knowledge and understanding throughout. (AO1)
Applies knowledge and understanding of geographical information/ideas logically, making relevant connections/relationships. (AO2)
Applies knowledge and understanding of geographical information/ideas to produce a full and coherent interpretation that is relevant and supported by evidence. (AO2)
Applies knowledge and understanding of geographical information/ideas to make supported judgements about the significance of factors throughout the response, leading to a balanced and coherent argument. (AO2)

Superpowers & Spheres of Influence (Edexcel A Level Geography)

Topic Questions