Aims & Hypothesis (Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE Geography)

Revision Note

Bridgette Barrett

Written by: Bridgette Barrett

Reviewed by: Jenna Quinn

Aims & Hypothesis

Aims/Hypothesis

  • Fieldwork is based around an enquiry into a 'real life' issue

    • This is linked to the content in the specification and then related to a place-specific context

  • All fieldwork begins with the aims and hypothesis

  • The aim explains what the enquiry is attempting to achieve 

    • An investigation into changes in beach profiles along Mappleton Beach

    • An investigation into the impact of building a wind farm in rural Lincolnshire

  • The hypothesis needs to be clear, directional and measurable, it is a statement which can be tested

    • River discharge increases with distance from the source of the River Dove

    • Environmental quality increases with distance from the new housing estate in Swanland, East Yorkshire

  • Aims and hypotheses may be based on what is already known about the topic. For example, Bradshaw's model of rivers

Examiner Tips and Tricks

When answering hypothesis questions that ask whether you agree or not, always give your opinion at the start of your answer before any supporting evidence. This will usually be Yes, No or Partially True /True to some extent.

Do not just copy out the hypothesis if you agree with it. It is important to make a decision and state it as well as provide the evidence for your choice. Be clear in your decision –expressions such as ‘might be true’, ‘could be false’, ‘true and false’ are too vague.

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Bridgette Barrett

Author: Bridgette Barrett

Expertise: Geography Lead

After graduating with a degree in Geography, Bridgette completed a PGCE over 25 years ago. She later gained an MA Learning, Technology and Education from the University of Nottingham focussing on online learning. At a time when the study of geography has never been more important, Bridgette is passionate about creating content which supports students in achieving their potential in geography and builds their confidence.

Jenna Quinn

Author: Jenna Quinn

Expertise: Head of New Subjects

Jenna studied at Cardiff University before training to become a science teacher at the University of Bath specialising in Biology (although she loves teaching all three sciences at GCSE level!). Teaching is her passion, and with 10 years experience teaching across a wide range of specifications – from GCSE and A Level Biology in the UK to IGCSE and IB Biology internationally – she knows what is required to pass those Biology exams.