AS Fieldwork Write-up Top Tips

Points to remember :

• Word limit of 2000 words is important, candidates will be penalised for going over limit.
• Try to add as many words, in boxes, onto maps, diagrams, in tables or on graphs.
• Look at the mark scheme carefully.
• 10 marks given for presentation . Therefore, use IT and keep tables, graphs etc. neat (use the same style of presentation for graphs, use of simple colour is important). Use Spellchecker for SPG and use correct terminology (look at booklets and course handouts)
• 10 marks given for describing, analyse, interpretation and conclusions. Here candidates must use a choice of inferential statistics, (S. Rank would be ideal, and follow onto use of student T test). This section may use tables for SR (see past project in lesson), but conclusions should be continuous prose. Try to use a different type of analysis, see the booklet on statistics for ideas.
• 10 marks given for evaluation. Here pupils should write in continuous prose and address the factors stated on the mark scheme. So, say how the fieldwork helped your geographical knowledge and understanding in developing a method and sequence of enquiry , then what were the limitations of the evidence, how did your conclusions help your knowledge? And very importantly what do you think would be a further important and relevant geographical study, which you could complete?
• The two sections above should form the bulk of the continuous prose (approx.1500 words)
• 15 marks for presentation in cartographic and diagrammatic form. Here candidates are marked for the quality and choice of graphs. You will need to show a variety of techniques, which are accurate and reasons for your choice have been given. Suggestions include: 1) line / bar graphs for simple results; 2) scatter graphs, using different colours for different variable; 3) ‘wind rose' type for bearing; 4) slope profile (cross-section to show relief). Much information, including justification, explanation of data (including anomalies) may be added as annotation. These may take the form of Overlays (OHP sheets) which may prevent ‘cluttering of graphs'; 5) textbook diagram of Psammosere (be neat and use colour).
• 5 marks for acquiring evidence. Here candidates should try to use neat and simple table of results. Make sure to include ‘extra' results. Try to add additional table, which simply describes each site – what were its main features? Remember, table is not continuous prose therefore is not part of word count. Use of photos of equipment and how they were used may be part of your method. Annotation of photos (in boxes) again is not part of word count. Diagrams of equipment would be useful.
• Aim should be short Approx (50 words). You must include 4 /5 simple but relevant hypothese. Suggest you read booklet and course information and look at results to identify meaningful hypotheses.