Edexcel A-level Geography – Glaciated Landscapes and Change
Explain 2 ways in which periglacial processes have contributed to upland landscapes. [6
marks]
HOW TO ANSWER THIS QUESTION
This 6-mark 'explain two ways' question rewards two well-developed, clearly separated process
explanations — plan one paragraph per process before you write:
• 1. Use highly specific geographical terminology: precise terms such as névé, solifluction,
capillary action, frost heave, ice lens and nivation show the examiner accurate and relevant
geographical knowledge and understanding, which is what distinguishes a top-band answer
from a general description.
• 2. Build clear, logical connections rather than isolated points: each paragraph should form
one complete, step-by-step sequence from initial conditions (e.g. snow collecting in a sheltered
hollow) through to the finished landform. Don't waste time on evaluation or a conclusion —
'explain' questions carry no credit for them. This is what secures Edexcel Level 3 (5–6 marks),
which requires understanding to be applied logically with connected, developed reasoning
throughout.
Examiner tip: two fully developed sequences beat three rushed ones — for a 6-marker, depth on
two distinct processes is exactly what the mark scheme wants.
The full model answer follows on the next page.
Explain 2 ways in which periglacial processes have contributed to upland landscapes. [6
marks]
HOW TO ANSWER THIS QUESTION
This 6-mark 'explain two ways' question rewards two well-developed, clearly separated process
explanations — plan one paragraph per process before you write:
• 1. Use highly specific geographical terminology: precise terms such as névé, solifluction,
capillary action, frost heave, ice lens and nivation show the examiner accurate and relevant
geographical knowledge and understanding, which is what distinguishes a top-band answer
from a general description.
• 2. Build clear, logical connections rather than isolated points: each paragraph should form
one complete, step-by-step sequence from initial conditions (e.g. snow collecting in a sheltered
hollow) through to the finished landform. Don't waste time on evaluation or a conclusion —
'explain' questions carry no credit for them. This is what secures Edexcel Level 3 (5–6 marks),
which requires understanding to be applied logically with connected, developed reasoning
throughout.
Examiner tip: two fully developed sequences beat three rushed ones — for a 6-marker, depth on
two distinct processes is exactly what the mark scheme wants.
The full model answer follows on the next page.
