Question 1: Define urbanisation and explain two factors that have contributed to rapid urban growth in the 20th and 21st centuries.

Answer: Urbanisation is the process by which more people move from rural to urban areas, increasing the size and density of cities. Factors include industrialisation, rural-urban migration, and improved transportation.

Question 2: Describe two social issues commonly associated with overcrowded cities.

Answer: Overcrowding can lead to increased crime rates and inadequate housing, resulting in slum development and poor living conditions.

Question 3: Identify and explain two environmental problems caused by urban expansion.

Answer: Urban expansion can cause air pollution from vehicle emissions and industrial activities, and lead to the loss of green spaces, which affects biodiversity and air quality.

Question 4: Explain how traffic congestion impacts both the environment and the daily lives of city residents.

Answer: Traffic congestion increases air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to climate change. It also causes delays, frustration, and economic losses for residents.

Question 5: Suggest two strategies that city planners can use to reduce urban pollution.

Answer: Implementing improved public transportation systems and creating pedestrian zones can reduce vehicle emissions and improve air quality.

Question 6: Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of building high-rise apartments in urban areas.

Answer: Advantages include efficient land use and increased housing capacity. Disadvantages may include increased pollution, congestion, and potential social issues like reduced community cohesion.

Question 7: Describe the concept of urban regeneration and give an example of a city that has undergone this process.

Answer: Urban regeneration involves revitalising derelict or underused areas through redevelopment projects, often improving infrastructure and housing. An example is London’s Docklands redevelopment.

Question 8: Sketch a simple map showing the layout of a city centre, including a park, residential area, commercial district, and transport hub. Label each area clearly.

Answer: A correct sketch would depict a central commercial district, with a park nearby, surrounded by residential zones, and a transport hub (like a train station) accessible from different parts of the city. The layout should be logical and labels clear.

Question 9: Explain how urbanisation can lead to increased social inequality within cities.

Answer: Urbanisation can result in wealthier residents living in well-developed areas while poorer communities are pushed into slums or underserved districts, increasing social inequality.

Question 10: Identify two ways in which technology can help manage urban traffic problems.

Answer: Smart traffic lights that adapt to congestion levels and real-time traffic monitoring systems can improve traffic flow and reduce congestion.