IB ESS HL 8.1.9 Rapid population growth Question Bank

The following guide for using the markbands suggests certain features that may be offered in responses. The five headings coincide with the criteria in each of the markbands (although ESS terminology has been conflated with 'understanding concepts') This guide simply provides some possible inclusions and should not be seen as requisite or comprehensive. It outlines the kind of elements to look for when deciding on the appropriate markband and the specific mark within that band.

Answers may demonstrate
Understanding concepts and terminology of factors associated with human growth that influence biodiversity such as pollution, climate change, habitat destruction, hunting, fishing, illegal trade, invasive species, overharvesting, mass extinction, background extinction rates; endangered species, species-based/habitat

based, in situ/ex situ conservation, nature reserves, stewardship; keystone species; flagship species; reserves; zoos; breeding/re-introduction programmes; gene banks; CITES; education/raising awareness etc.

Breadth in addressing and linking: wide range of positive and negative impacts on biodiversity associated with range of human activities linked to population growth.

Examples: examples of species/habitats that have been affected by human population growth/encroachment; examples of species recovery efforts/successes/extinction;

Balanced Analysis evaluating the extent to which human population growth has always led to a reduction of biodiversity and the extent to which conservation efforts have reduced this loss.

A conclusion that is consistent with and supported by analysis and examples given e.g.: Current extinction rates are way above background extinction rates and this is largely due to the impacts from a growing human population. Despite a wide range of partially successful conservation efforts the net rate of biodiversity loss is still increasing.

Please see markbands on page 19.