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When answering a discuss question, you should consider different views on an issue or argument. This may not be a balanced argument, but you should give a range of ideas within your answer. This type of question will test your higher order skills, as you have to consider different perspectives.

Sample question

Discuss the effects of land degradation on either a named rainforest or semi-arid area you have studied. (6 marks)

Sample answer: In the Sahel in Northern Africa, farmers have lost their income due to poor crop yields so they can no longer afford to pay for their basic needs e.g. medicines. (1 mark)

Crop failures and the death of livestock has reduced food supply, leading to malnutrition and famine for people in much of the Sahel, such as countries like Ethiopia. (1 mark) There has been large- scale rural-urban migration into already overcrowded areas in the south, leading to the growth of shanty towns. (1 mark)

Due to the loss of fertile topsoil, the land is unable to support the growth of vegetation. (1 mark)

Countries are becoming reliant on international aid to gain access to food and water, which impedes development, as debt repayments are high. (1 mark)

The traditional way of life is declining due to the lack of grazing and water, forcing many nomads to settle in villages, which has increased pressure in these areas. (1 mark)