Textbook Solutions: Urbanisation | IGCSE Oxford Geography Foundations for Year 6 - Class 6 PDF Download

How were the sites for early settlements chosen

Q1. Write down the meaning of the word 'site'.

Ans:  Meaning of the word ‘site’: The word ‘site’ refers to a location or place where something is, was, or will be built, or where something happened, is happening, or will happen. It can also refer to an area of ground designated for a particular purpose, such as a building site or a website. 

Q2. Landsketch B shows an area in Ancient Britain. On it, labelled A, B, C, D and E, are five possible sites for a village.

a. Suggest at least one natural advantage of each site.

b. Suggest at least one natural disadvantage of each site.

c. Which site would you choose? Give three reasons for your choice.

Ans: 

Advantages and Disadvantages of Village Sites:

a. Natural Advantages:

• Site A (Flat hill-top): Likely to be well-drained and less prone to flooding; offers a strategic vantage point for defense.
• Site B (Steep slope): Provides natural defense and drainage, reducing flood risk.
• Site C (Thick woodland): Offers abundant resources like wood for building and fuel, and potential for hunting.
• Site D (Gentle slope, grass with good soil): Ideal for agriculture due to fertile soil and easier construction of dwellings.
• Site E (Flat, marshy land next to river): Provides access to water for drinking and farming, and rich soil for agriculture.

b. Natural Disadvantages:

• Site A: Exposed to the elements, such as wind and rain, and may be more difficult to access.
• Site B: Challenging for building and agriculture due to the steepness and potential soil erosion.
• Site C: May require significant clearing for space, which could be labor-intensive.
• Site D: While having good soil, it might still be susceptible to some water runoff and erosion.
• Site E: Risk of flooding and may require drainage improvements to be habitable.

c. Chosen Site: Site D

1. Agricultural Potential: The gentle slope with good soil is ideal for growing crops, which is crucial for sustaining a village.
2. Construction Feasibility: The gentle slope would make building structures easier compared to steeper or uneven terrain.
3. Water Management: While there may be some runoff, it’s manageable compared to the risks associated with flat, marshy lands or steep slopes.

Q1. Draw a star diagram like the one below to show the advantages of Warkworth as a site for a settlement. Give two advantages under each heading.
Ans: 

Advantages of Warkworth as a Site for a Settlement:

Defence:

• The castle’s position on a steep, rocky outcrop provides a natural fortification.
• The river offers good defense on three sides, creating a barrier against invaders.

Building Materials:

• Nearby rock outcrops supply ample raw materials for construction.
• Wood is readily available from local forests for building and fuel.

Food and Water:

• The river ensures a steady water supply for both drinking and irrigation.
• Good farming land nearby supports agriculture and sustenance.

Building Land:

• Firm, flat land makes it easy to construct buildings and infrastructure.
• The site’s elevation above the flood level prevents water damage and loss.

Transport:

• The river can be used for transport, facilitating trade and movement.
• A bridge can be constructed at this point, improving connectivity and access.

Q2. Complete table D to show how some of Warkworth's original site advantages are no longer so important.

Ans: 

What different settlement patterns are there?

Q1. Copy the settlement pattern drawings below. Label each one dispersed, nucleated or linear. Write a brief description of each one. Suggest a reason for its shape.

Ans: 

 Descriptions of Settlement Patterns:

1. Dispersed Settlement Pattern: This pattern features separate buildings or farmsteads scattered across a wide area, often in rural regions. The shape is influenced by factors like the availability of large agricultural lands, the desire for privacy, or geographical constraints that prevent close grouping of homes.

2. Nucleated Settlement Pattern: In this pattern, buildings are clustered around a central point, such as a church, market, or crossroads. The shape is often circular and can be attributed to factors like defense, efficient use of agricultural land, or the availability of water and other resources.

3. Linear Settlement Pattern: This pattern occurs in a line or arc along a road, river, or valley, where buildings are constructed in a row. The shape follows the geographical feature or transport route, providing easy access to transportation and communication.

Q2. Map D is part of Devon in south-west England.

It shows many different settlement patterns.

a. Make a larger copy of table F.

b. Complete your table by filling in the empty boxes. The first one has been done to help you. (You may need to look at page 96 to remind you

about grid references.)

c. Find another example of a nucleated settlement and a linear settlement and add them to your table.

Ans: 

c. Additional Examples:

• Nucleated Settlement:  - Typically found in a circular shape with buildings concentrated around a central feature.
• Linear Settlement: - Characterized by buildings arranged in a line, often following a road or river.

How do settlements change with time?

Q1. Write down the meaning of:

a. shape

b. function

c. land use

when talking about a settlement.
Ans: a. Shape: This refers to the physical layout or configuration of a settlement, such as circular, linear, or irregular. 

b. Function: This denotes the primary purpose or activity that a settlement is known for, like residential, commercial, industrial, or agricultural. 

c. Land Use: This is the manner in which different parts of a settlement are utilized, such as for housing, farming, businesses, or recreation. 

Q2. Spot the differences! List at least ten differences between the village in the 1890s and the village in the 2010s.
Ans: 

Differences between the village in the 1890s and the 2010s:

1. Increase in the number of houses.
2. More diverse types of housing, including apartments.
3. Introduction of modern infrastructure like paved roads.
4. Presence of cars and garages.
5. Changes in architectural styles.
6. Development of commercial areas or shopping centers.
7. Possible decline in natural areas or green spaces.
8. Expansion of public services, such as schools and hospitals.
9. Improved utilities, including electricity and internet services.
10. Shift from agriculture-based land use to more urban or suburban land use.

Q3. The changes to the village will have affected different groups of people in different ways. Look at the pictures of some of these groups of people shown below. Match up the pictures with the statements below numbered to 1 to 8.

For example:

Young married couple = statement 2
Ans: 

1. Shopkeeper
2. Young married couple
3. Bird watcher
4. Restaurant owner
5. Builder
6. Farmer
7. Teenager
8. Elderly person

Q4. Activity 2 asked you to find the differences in the village between the 1890s and the 2010s.

Why do you think changes have been made in:

a. the number and type of houses

b. the use of buildings around the green

c. the use of the land around the village

d. the roads?

Ans: a. Number and type of houses: Population growth and economic development often lead to an increase in housing demand, prompting the construction of more and varied types of homes. 

b. Use of buildings around the green: Changes in social needs and commercial activities can transform the function of buildings, from purely residential to mixed-use developments. 

c. Use of the land around the village: Agricultural land may be repurposed for residential or commercial use due to urban expansion and the changing economy. 

d. The roads: The advent of automobiles and increased mobility necessitates better and wider roads to accommodate traffic and connect the village to other areas. 

Q5. It has been suggested that the woods should be cleared so that an estate of expensive houses can be built.

a. Which groups of people will like this change?

b. Which groups of people will be against this change?

Suggest reasons for your answers.
Ans: 

Clearing woods for expensive houses:

a. Groups likely to favor the change:

• Builders and developers would see an opportunity for profit.
• Local government might appreciate increased tax revenue.
• Some local businesses could expect more customers.

b. Groups likely to oppose the change:

• Environmentalists and bird watchers would be concerned about the loss of wildlife habitat.
• Elderly residents seeking tranquility might oppose increased construction and population.
• Teenagers and others who use the woods for recreation would be against losing this space.

What are the benefits and problems of settlement growth?

Q1. a. Make a copy of the table below. List the three things which you think are best about living in cities, and the three things you think are the worst.

b. Do you think there is more good news or bad news?

Ans: 

b. Whether there is more good news or bad news about living in cities can be subjective and depends on personal preferences and priorities. Some may value the convenience and opportunities cities offer, while others may prioritize a quieter, less expensive lifestyle.

Q2. If you had to move from where you live, would it be to a bigger or a smaller settlement? Give reasons for your answer.
Ans: Moving to a Different Settlement: If I had to move, I would choose a smaller settlement. The reasons could include a desire for a quieter environment, a closer-knit community, and potentially a lower cost of living. However, this choice would also depend on factors like job opportunities, family needs, and personal lifestyle preferences.

Q3. Try to find out what has been done in your local town or city to try to reduce:

a. traffic problems

b. pollution

c. crime, vandalism and litter.
Ans:  Local Town or City Initiatives: To reduce local urban issues, towns and cities often implement measures such as: a. Traffic Problems: Introducing carpool lanes, improving public transport, and creating pedestrian zones. b. Pollution: Implementing emission regulations, promoting electric vehicles, and increasing green spaces. c. Crime, Vandalism, and Litter: Increasing police patrols, installing CCTV cameras, and organizing community clean-up events. 

Q4. Suggest other ways in which these three problems may be overcome.
Ans: 

• Traffic: Develop smart traffic management systems and encourage remote working to reduce peak-time congestion.
• Pollution: Offer incentives for using renewable energy sources and enforce stricter industrial waste management.
• Crime and Litter: Foster community programs that engage youth, and implement educational campaigns on the impact of crime and littering.

Why does land use in towns change?

Q1. 

a. What was the early success of Docklands based

b. What was the reason for its decline?

c. What problems were caused by this decline?

d. Describe a typical house shown in photo A.

e. What is meant by 'a good community spirit'?

Ans: 

a. The early success of Docklands was based on its status as the busiest port in the world, thriving with industrial activity and shipping along the Thames.

b. The decline began due to a combination of factors, including the advent of containerization in shipping, which the old docks couldn’t accommodate, leading to a shift in port activity to deeper waters further east.

c. This decline led to docks becoming abandoned and derelict, job scarcity, poor transport, lack of basic services, and housing issues, with many old terraced houses lacking modern amenities and requiring urgent repair.

d. A typical house shown in photo A would likely be an old terraced house, small and cramped, possibly without a bathroom or indoor toilet, reflecting the urgent need for modernization and repair.

e. ‘A good community spirit’ refers to the strong sense of belonging, mutual support, and camaraderie among residents, often characteristic of tight-knit neighborhoods where people have deep-rooted connections and shared experiences.

Q2. Make a copy of diagram D below and use the headings to describe the changes to London Docklands.
Ans: 

• Old docks and houses were cleared.
• Warehouses were converted into expensive flats.
• High-tech industries and financial firms replaced old industries.
• Transport was improved with new underground stations, City Airport, and Docklands Light Railway.
• The environment was enhanced with tree planting and new parklands.

Q3. Look carefully at drawing C above.

a. Which people do you think benefit most?

b. Which people do you think benefit least?

Give reasons for your answers.

Ans: 

a. Those who benefit most:

• Financial managers enjoy modern offices, quality housing, and short commutes.
• Local shopkeepers see increased trade from wealthier newcomers.
• School leavers familiar with IT systems find new job opportunities.

b. Those who benefit least:

• Young married couples struggle with housing affordability.
• Local people feel their community has been disrupted and jobs are unsuitable.
• Elderly people face expensive shopping and feel neglected in terms of community investment.

Q4. Overall, do you think the changes to London Docklands have been good or bad? Give reasons for your answer — but remember to think about different points of view.

Ans: 

The changes to London Docklands have been both good and bad, depending on perspective:

• Good: The area has seen economic revitalization, improved infrastructure, and environmental enhancements.
• Bad: The development has led to social displacement, a loss of community spirit, and a sense of exclusion among long-term residents.

Overall, while the redevelopment has brought modernization and economic benefits, it has also created challenges in preserving the social fabric and ensuring inclusivity for all residents. Balancing economic growth with community well-being remains a critical consideration.

Where do we shop?

Q1. Complete these sentences.

a. Convenience goods are ...

b. Comparison goods are

c. A corner shop is

Ans: 

a. Convenience goods are items that are widely available and purchased frequently with minimal effort, such as newspapers and candy

b. Comparison goods are products usually of higher value and purchased infrequently, such as vehicles, household goods, or clothing, where consumers tend to compare quality and value before purchasing.

c. A corner shop is a small store, often located on the corner of a street, that sells groceries and general goods, mainly in residential areas

How has shopping changed?

Q1. 

a. What makes the city centre the main shopping centre?

b. Why are people willing to travel long distances to this centre?

c. Name four different types of shops in the city centre.

d. What three things make the city centre accessible? 

e. What are the main problems of these centres?

f. What is being done to improve city centre shopping?

Ans: 

a. The city centre is often the main shopping centre because it’s historically the part of the city where trade and commerce naturally concentrated, offering a wide variety of stores and services.

b. People are willing to travel long distances to this centre for the extensive selection of goods, the experience of a vibrant atmosphere, and the availability of specialty products that might not be found elsewhere.

c. Four different types of shops you might find in a city centre include department stores, fashion boutiques, electronics retailers, and specialty shops like bookstores or jewelry shops.

d. The city centre is accessible due to efficient public transportation systems, ample parking facilities, and pedestrian-friendly streets.

e. The main problems of these centres can be congestion, high rent and operational costs, competition from online retailers, and sometimes a decline in foot traffic.

f. To improve city centre shopping, initiatives may include modernizing infrastructure, creating pedestrian zones, enhancing public transportation, hosting events to attract visitors, and diversifying the retail mix to include more entertainment and dining options. Efforts are also made to integrate technology for a better shopping experience

Q4. Imagine that you own a small shop close to a new out-of-town shopping centre. Your profits are down and you think you may soon have to close. Write a  letter to the local council to say that the centre was a mistake. Mention all the ways that you think it is harming the area

Ans: 

Dear [Local Council’s Name],

I am writing to you as the owner of [Your Shop’s Name], a small business that has served our community for [number of years]. It is with a heavy heart that I must express my concerns regarding the new out-of-town shopping centre, which I believe is having a detrimental impact on our local area.

Since the opening of the shopping centre, I have noticed a significant downturn in profits, leading me to consider the unfortunate possibility of closing down. This is not just my story but a reality faced by many small businesses here. The centre, while modern and convenient for those with cars, is drawing away vital foot traffic and customers that once supported local shops like mine.

The low prices offered by the large retailers in the centre, made possible by bulk buying and lower operational costs, are impossible for small businesses to compete with. Additionally, the centre’s comprehensive range of leisure amenities, including cafés, restaurants, and cinemas, has turned shopping into an all-day event, further discouraging shoppers from visiting the town’s traditional high street.

Moreover, the centre’s location, ideal for car owners, has increased traffic congestion on our roads, contributing to higher pollution levels and a decline in the quality of life for local residents. The shift in shopping habits has also led to a decrease in community engagement, as fewer people frequent the town centre, eroding the close-knit fabric that once defined our area.

While I understand the intent to modernize and attract more people to our region, I believe the current approach is short-sighted. The charm and individuality of our local businesses are being overshadowed, and the economic benefits seem to be unevenly distributed, favoring large corporations over small entrepreneurs.

I urge the council to reconsider the support given to such developments and to focus instead on initiatives that bolster local businesses, enhance the town centre’s appeal, and preserve the unique character of our community. Could we explore solutions such as business rate relief for affected shops, grants for modernizing local businesses, or creating events that draw people back into the town centre?

Our town’s prosperity should not come at the cost of its soul. I hope we can work together to find a balance that ensures a thriving economy without sacrificing the well-being of our community.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your response and am open to discussing this further at your earliest convenience.

Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Shop’s Name] [Contact Information]

Traffic in urban areas - why is it a problem

Q1. Look at the information with photo A. List what you think are the five worst problems caused by increased traffic in towns.
Ans: 

Five Worst Problems Caused by Increased Traffic in Towns:

1. Air Pollution: Increased traffic leads to higher emissions of pollutants, which can harm the health of residents.
2. Noise Pollution: The constant noise from heavy traffic can be a source of stress and disrupt daily life.
3. Traffic Accidents: More vehicles on the road increase the likelihood of accidents, endangering drivers and pedestrians.
4. Congestion: Traffic jams can lead to longer commute times and reduce the overall efficiency of the town’s transport system.
5. Impact on Local Businesses: Congestion and lack of parking can deter customers from visiting town centers, affecting local commerce.

Q2. The two people in B are badly affected by traffic congestion and pollution. For each person write a letter to the local MP explaining how the problem affects them personally.
Ans: 

Letter from the Businessman:

Dear [Local MP’s Name],

I am writing to you as a businessman who commutes daily to the city center from the outskirts of town. The increasing traffic congestion has severely impacted my life both professionally and personally. The extended time spent in traffic not only reduces my productivity at work but also cuts into valuable family time. The stress of navigating through gridlocked roads is taking a toll on my well-being, and I am concerned about the long-term health effects of exposure to high levels of pollution.

I urge you to address this issue by considering improvements in public transportation, incentives for carpooling, and better infrastructure planning to alleviate the traffic burden. Your attention to this matter is crucial for the betterment of our community.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Letter from the Local Resident:

Dear [Local MP’s Name],

As a resident living close to the main road with two young children, I am deeply troubled by the traffic congestion and pollution in our neighborhood. The constant flow of vehicles poses a risk to our safety and health, with my children being exposed to pollutants on their way to school. The noise from the traffic disrupts their sleep and affects their concentration.

I implore you to take immediate action to reduce traffic in residential areas and implement stricter regulations on vehicle emissions. Our community deserves a safe and healthy environment for our children to grow up in.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Q3. Look at drawing C. List what you think are the five worst problems caused by increased traffic in cities. You need only write out the words in bold.

Ans: 

1. Too many cars
2. Too many road junctions
3. Too much through traffic
4. Unsuitable roads
5. Dirty fuels

Q4. Look at graph D.

a. How many cars were on Britain's roads in 1950? How many were there in 2010?

b. Which of the graphs in E looks most like graph D? Use that description to describe the change in car numbers between 1950 and 2010.

Ans: a. in 1950: 3 million cars

in 2010: 26 million cars

b. 3rd graph.

The urbanisation enquiry

Ans: 

Problems in Drawing A:

• Narrow and dangerous streets
• High levels of noise and exhaust pollution
• Insufficient parking space
• Unpleasant shopping experience
• Ugly buildings
• Lack of landscaping and open spaces

Q2. Now look carefully at the improvement scheme in drawing B.

a. How has traffic congestion been reduced?

b. What has been done to improve safety?

c.  What has been done to make the area more attractive?

d. How has shopping been improved?
Ans: 

Improvement Scheme in Drawing B:

a. Traffic Congestion: Perhaps the scheme introduces traffic calming measures, pedestrian zones, or reroutes traffic to reduce congestion.

b. Safety Improvements: Safety could be improved by adding crosswalks, better street lighting, and reducing speed limits.

c. Attractiveness: Beautification efforts might include planting trees, creating parks, or renovating facades.

d. Shopping Experience: Shopping could be enhanced by providing more pedestrian areas, diversifying shops, and improving accessibility.

Q3.

a. Make two copies of the survey sheet on the right.

b. Complete a survey for drawing A.

c. Tick the points you would give for each feature and add up the total number of points.

d. Complete a similar survey for drawing B.
Ans: 

a. Survey Sheet Copies: Two copies would be made, one for the current state (Drawing A) and one post-improvement (Drawing B).

b. Survey for Drawing A: This would likely score low across most categories due to the problems listed.

c. Scoring Example for Drawing A:

d. Survey for Drawing B: Presumably, this would score higher as improvements address the issues.

Q4. Use the two surveys to measure the success of the improvement scheme. What features still need to be  improved? Suggest what could be done to make these better.
Ans: The success of the improvement scheme can be measured by comparing the total points from both surveys. Any feature that doesn’t show significant improvement should be re-evaluated. For instance, if parking remains an issue, perhaps a multi-story car park could be considered.

Q5. The views of local people must be considered. For each person in C, say if they would be for or against the scheme. Give reasons for their views.
Ans: 

• Mrs. Briggs: Likely for the scheme, as it promises a safer and cleaner environment for her children.
• Mr. Banks: Possibly for the scheme if it improves shopping and attracts more customers, but concerned about construction impact on business.
• Mr. and Mrs. Bell: Against the scheme due to their shop being demolished for parking.

Q6.  Should the scheme go ahead? Write a letter to the local authority giving your views and suggestions.
Ans: 

Dear Local Authority,

I am writing to express my views on the proposed main street improvement scheme. The initiative to reduce traffic congestion, pollution, and enhance the safety and attractiveness of the area is commendable. The focus on improving local shopping facilities is also a positive step towards revitalizing the town’s economy.

However, I urge the authority to consider the impact on local businesses, especially those like Mr. and Mrs. Bell’s, which face demolition. Alternative solutions such as offering relocation assistance or compensation should be explored.

Additionally, while the scheme aims to address several issues, it is crucial to ensure that the implementation does not create new problems, such as inadequate parking facilities. A comprehensive plan that includes the construction of a multi-story car park could alleviate this concern.

In conclusion, while I support the scheme’s objectives, I recommend a balanced approach that minimizes disruption to local businesses and residents. Your efforts to involve the community in these discussions are vital to the project’s success.

Yours sincerely, [Your Name]