Pre U Geography Paper 3: know your exam papers!
February 13th, 2019Last updated: December 8th, 2022
This is the third blog in a four-part series on how to gain a merit or distinction grade in Pre-U Geography. Tim, an experienced Geography teacher, sets out some top tips on tackling Paper 3.
This is the fun paper! The first two parts are a bit like a quiz! It’s long though (two hours, 45 minutes) and there are 105 marks available. It has 3 sections: A, B and C.
Sections A and B
Section A is made up of straight forward physical geography short answer questions. Section B focuses on human geography short answer questions. Use the mark allocation as a rough guide as to how much to write and how long to spend on each question – it should roughly equate to a minute a mark (unless you have extra time).
Be accurate and precise with your answers, particularly in the physical geography section.
HINT: learn the vocabulary!
Follow the questions’ command words precisely and avoid waffle! Practise this by verbalising your answer to a study buddy who can tell you to cut the ‘padding’!
Section C
In Section C you are asked to write an essay that gives you the opportunity to link physical processes with the human outcome. Use the same essay structure as in Paper 2 (see my last blog). Be sure to express clear understanding of physical processes. Allow yourself a bit longer – maybe 10% more time – than the 25 minutes allocated.
Dr Tim’s TOP TIP: this is a long paper which you will have 2 hours and 45 minutes to complete. Make sure you have had plenty of sleep the two nights before, have a light nutritious meal with a glass of water about an hour before, and use the loo before you go in!
Start the discussion!