NCHS 2025 GEOG PRELIM P2 MS

Name: Register Number: Class: PRELIMINARY EXAMINATION 2025 SECONDARY FOUR EXPRESS GEOGRAPHY 2279/02 Paper 2 29 August 2025, Friday 1 hour 45 minutes Marking Scheme 1 Cluster 1: Geography in Everyday Life (a) Study Fig. 1.1 (Insert), which shows the locations of popular shopping malls and Shibuya Station in Tokyo.

2 (i) Using Fig. 1.1 (Insert), suggest one reason why cities like Tokyo develop shopping malls in close spatial association with subway stations. [2] - By locating shopping malls in close spatial association with subway stations, cities like Tokyo make it more accessible and convenient for both local residents and tourists to access retail, dining, and entertainment facilities. [1 mark] o Shoppers can easily visit malls without needing private transport, which helps to reduce congestion on the roads / which is more sustainable for the environment / less space needed for carparks, allowing cities to use their space more efficiently. [1 additional mark] - When shopping malls are located next to busy subway stations, many people will pass by or through these malls every day, whether to shop or on their way to work. [1 mark] o This large number of visitors means shops are more likely to make sales, sustaining a profitable business. [1 additional mark] Award marks only for the first reason give. Study Fig. 1.2 (Insert), which shows Todoroki Valley in central Tokyo. (ii) Using Fig. 1.2 (Insert), explain how nature in this area may provide regulating ecosystem services. [3] - The dense trees and vegetation in Todoroki Valley help to regulate the local climate by providing shade. [1 mark] o This cools the surrounding air, making the area less hot, especially during summer. [1 additional mark] - The plants and vegetation cover reduce surface runoff by retaining water in the soil. [1 mark] o Reducing the risk of sudden flooding after heavy rain. [1 additional mark] - The leaves can trap dust and other small particles, regulating air quality. [1 mark] Study Fig. 1.3, which shows an excerpt from an article on sustainability efforts in Tokyo.

3 Building a Sustainable Tokyo: Balancing the Environment, People, and the Economy Japan for Sustainability In Tokyo, several efforts have been made to reduce the effects of hot summer temperatures. These include building wind paths by spacing out tall buildings and removing older ones that block natural airflow, such as in a redevelopment project near Tokyo Station. Greenery is also being added in creative ways, such as planting grass along tram lines, installing rooftop and wall gardens, and using climbing plants like morning glory on window nets. Some cities like Nagoya have even passed laws that require new buildings to include a certain amount of green space. The government supports these efforts through grants, tax reductions, and planning incentives. Fig. 1.3 (iii) With reference to Fig. 1.3, explain how the spatial layout and planning of Tokyo’s urban areas help to build sustainable neighbourhoods. [4] Environmental sustainability: - Building wind paths through buildings ensures that the space is designed to be energy-efficient to minimize the use of resources like air conditioning. - Incorporating greenery into commonly used areas show a concerted effort to protect habitats and ecosystems. - Tree corridors, rooftop gardens, and climbing plants provide shade and support evapotranspiration, helping to lower surrounding temperatures and reduce the urban heat island (UHI) effect. - These green features also help to absorb pollutants such as carbon dioxide and dust particles, leading to cleaner air in densely built areas. Social sustainability: - Shared community spaces like rooftop gardens offer places for recreation, rest, and social interaction, enhancing the quality of life for residents. - The presence of greenery improves the aesthetic appeal of neighbourhoods, the unique design can also help to strengthen a sense of shared identity. Economic sustainability: - By naturally cooling the environment, greenery helps reduce reliance on air-conditioning, leading to lower energy consumption and utility costs. - Government incentives (e.g. grants and tax reductions) encourage private property owners to take part in greening efforts, supporting long-term maintenance of these initiatives. Reserve 1 mark for reference to spatial layout. Reserve 1 mark for reference to urban planning (green spaces).

4 (b) In early 2025, a fast-moving wildfire broke out in the Palisades neighbourhood of Los Angeles, California, following weeks of dry weather, strong winds, and the rapid spread of flammable vegetation. The fire swept through the suburban area, destroying homes, infrastructure, and nearby natural spaces. Hundreds of residents were forced to evacuate. Study Figs. 1.3 and 1.4 (Insert), which show scenes from the Palisades neighbourhoods in California after the 2025 wildfires. i. With reference to Fig. 1.3 (Insert), describe the economic impacts of the wildfire on the Palisades neighbourhoods in California. [3] - The wildfire caused extensive damage to private property, including homes, vehicles, and household belongings and important documents, which leads to economic losses. - Further costs may also be incurred after the fire is over as money is required to repair and rebuild the properties that were damaged in the fire. - The fire may result in potential loss of property value in the affected area, and make it more difficult for residents to sell or insure their homes in the future. - Businesses in the area may have suffered from interruption of operations, leading to income loss for owners and employees, which further affects the local economy. ii. Using Figs 1.3 and 1.4 (Insert), comment on how events like these may affect the Palisades residents’ sense of place. [3] - The destruction of homes and familiar streets shown in Fig. 1.3 may cause residents to feel that their community identity has been lost, as key landmarks and shared spaces are no longer recognisable. - In Fig. 1.4, the posture of the resident among the rubble reflects a deep personal attachment to place and the grief caused by the damage. - The sudden loss of social connections in a once-familiar environment may lead to a weakened emotional connection with the neighbourhood. - There is a decrease in sense of safety and security, and the place is no longer a familiar space of comfort. - These changes can lead residents to redefine or even lose their sense of place, especially if they are displaced for an extended period.

5 2 Cluster 4: Tectonics (a) On 28 March 2025, a powerful magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck central Myanmar along the Sagaing Fault. The earthquake resulted in approximately