geog essay example

How to Write Geography Essay: Topics and Examples

Table of contents

• 1 What Is Geography Essay
• 2 Choosing a Topic
• 3 Research and Data Collection
• 4 Planning the Essay
• 5 Writing the Essay
• 6 Examples of Geography Essays
• 7 Unlocking the World: Key Insights from Our Geographic Exploration

Welcome to the dynamic world of geography essays, where understanding the Earth’s surface becomes an enlightening journey. This article serves as a comprehensive guide to writing a geography essay, starting with the crucial step of selecting a captivating topic. We’ll navigate through various popular topics, emphasizing the importance of effective research and data collection.

In this article, we’ll cover:

• How to select engaging and relevant geography essay topics.
• The importance of thorough research and effective data collection methods.
• Strategies for planning and organizing your geography essay for clarity and impact.
• Tips for writing a compelling geography essay, including structuring and presenting arguments.
• Analyzing examples of successful geography essays to guide and inspire your work.

As we transition into the details, prepare to enhance your understanding and skills in geography essay writing.

What Is Geography Essay

As we delve into the essence of a geography essay, it’s important to understand that it meticulously examines Earth’s landscapes and human activities. Furthermore, it aims to analyze how these two aspects interact, focusing on spatial relationships and patterns. Transitioning into the specifics, such essays often delve into particular geographic issues, aiming to broaden our comprehension of the world.

Moreover, when writing a geography essay, one must include accurate geographical data. This data, encompassing maps, statistics, and case studies, is crucial for a well-grounded analysis. Consequently, the essay should present facts and interpret them, offering fresh insights into the discussed topic.

Additionally, it’s noteworthy that an essay on geography stands out from others due to its unique subject matter approach. It demands a keen eye for detail and a profound understanding of the world’s physical and human dimensions. This requirement makes crafting such an essay a challenging yet fulfilling endeavor.

Lastly, the primary goal of a geography essay is to enlighten and inform. It persuades readers to view the world through a geographical lens, grasping the complex interplay between humans and their environment. This type of essay transcends mere academic exercise, serving as a means to foster a deeper appreciation for our world and its complex dynamics.

Choosing a Topic

The crucial point for a successful geography essay is selecting an engaging and appropriate topic. To choose a topic that resonates, consider current events, your interests, and the scope of your assignment. A good topic should captivate your interest and offer sufficient scope for in-depth study and analysis.

Popular geography essay topics often revolve around climate change , urban development, and cultural landscapes. These topics provide a rich ground for exploration and allow for diverse perspectives and interpretations. For example, a thematic essay on geography could focus on how urbanization affects local ecosystems or how cultural practices shape landscape use.

• Analyzing the Direct Impact of Climate Change on the Amazon Rainforest’s Biodiversity
• Urbanization in Mega Cities: Environmental Consequences and Sustainable Solutions
• Wind and Solar Power: Pioneers of Sustainable Energy Landscape
• Managing Water Scarcity in the Middle East: Strategies and Challenges
• The Amazon Deforestation Crisis: Causes, Impacts, and Global Responses
• Spatial Inequality: A Detailed Look at Poverty in Sub-Saharan Africa
• The Dynamics of Population Growth and Overconsumption in Asia
• Cultural Preservation of Indigenous Peoples in the Amazon Basin
• Earthquakes in Japan: Analyzing Causes, Effects, and Preparedness Strategies
• Geography’s Role in the Rise and Fall of the Roman Empire
• Implementing Sustainable Agricultural Practices in India for Food Security
• The Kashmir Conflict: A Geopolitical Analysis of Border Disputes
• The Growing Crisis of Climate Refugees in the Pacific Islands
• The Importance of Urban Green Spaces in New York City’s Environmental Health
• The Impact of Globalization on Maori Culture in New Zealand
• Ecotourism in Costa Rica: Balancing Economic Benefits and Environmental Preservation
• Addressing Ocean Plastic Pollution: Case Studies from the Great Pacific Garbage Patch
• The Nile River Conflict: Water Politics in a Changing Climate
• Preventing Desertification in the Sahel: Strategies and International Cooperation
• GIS in Disaster Management: Case Studies of Earthquake Response and Recovery
• Measuring the Effects of Glacial Melting on Greenland’s Coastal Communities
• Tracing the Economic Geography of the Silk Road in the 21st Century
• The Health Impacts of Air Pollution in Beijing: Urban Policies and Challenges
• Vulnerable Communities: Assessing the Socioeconomic Impacts of Climate Change in Bangladesh
• The New Face of Migration: Syrian Refugees and European Response
• The Critical Role of Metropolitan Areas in Combating Global Warming
• Saving Madagascar’s Rainforest: Conservation Strategies and Challenges
• The Transition to Renewable Energy in Germany: A Model for the World?
• Satellite Imagery in Land Use Changes: A Study of the Brazilian Amazon
• Arctic Sovereignty: The Geopolitical Implications of Melting Ice Caps for Global Powers

To guide and inspire your topic selection, you can use geography essay examples. These examples showcase a range of topics and approaches, helping you understand what makes a topic both engaging and feasible for study. Remember, a well-chosen topic is the first step toward a compelling and insightful geography essay.

Research and Data Collection

To talk about thorough research, it is the backbone of any geography study, providing the factual and theoretical foundation to understand complex geographical phenomena. To explain why the study of geography is important, one must delve into diverse and reliable sources that offer insights into how geographical factors shape our world and affect our lives. This research underpins the type of geography being studied, whether physical, human, or environmental.

Collecting geographical data can be done through various methods. Firstly, fieldwork is essential, especially for physical geography, as it allows for the direct observation and measurement of geographical features and processes. For human geography, surveys and interviews can yield valuable data on human behaviors and social patterns. Moreover, a thorough literature review also helps understand existing research and theories, providing a critical context for new findings.

Furthermore, evaluating sources for their credibility and relevance is vital. This involves checking the qualifications of the authors, the rigor of their methodologies, and the recency of their findings. Reliable sources are peer-reviewed and come from reputable academic or scientific institutions. What is more, ensuring the credibility of sources strengthens the arguments made in a geography essay and enhances the overall understanding of the topic.

In summary, comprehensive research and careful data collection are fundamental in geography. They enable a deeper understanding of how geographical aspects shape our environment and lives, which is central to the discipline.

Planning the Essay

When you start planning a geography essay, it begins with creating an outline to organize thoughts and research. This step is crucial as it helps structure the essay logically, ensuring a smooth flow of ideas. Start by listing major points and supporting evidence. This framework guides the writing process and maintains focus on the chosen topic. Planning involves outlining the essay and crafting a compelling thesis. Planning involves outlining the essay and crafting a compelling thesis. This process ensures the essay remains focused and coherent, addressing the chosen geography topic. By establishing a clear roadmap for the essay, writers can navigate their arguments and evidence with precision, avoiding common pitfalls such as digression or ambiguity. Now, with our plan in place, let’s transition to examining the structure more closely, exploring how to effectively organize our thoughts and research into a well-structured essay that engages and informs the reader.

Writing the Essay

When you finally start writing, a geographical essay involves several key steps, each demanding attention to detail and a balance between descriptive and analytical writing. This balance is crucial in creating an essay about geography that informs, engages, and persuades.

The introduction sets the stage. Start with a hook that grabs the reader’s attention, followed by background information that provides context to the topic. This section should conclude with a clear and concise thesis statement that guides the rest of the essay.

In the body, organize paragraphs thematically or chronologically , depending on the essay’s focus. Each paragraph should start with a topic sentence that relates to the thesis. Following this, present your arguments and support them with geographical theories and data. This is where you incorporate detailed information from your research, including statistics, case studies, and examples. Make sure to explain how this data supports your arguments. A geography research paper demands precision in presenting data and clarity in its interpretation.

When discussing geographical theories, link them directly to your topic. This shows your understanding of the subject and how these theories apply to real-world scenarios. Remember, each paragraph should have a smooth transition to the next, maintaining a coherent flow of ideas.

In the conclusion, summarize the key points of your essay. Restate the thesis in light of the arguments and evidence presented. The conclusion should not introduce new information but encapsulate what the essay has covered. It’s also an opportunity to emphasize the importance of the topic, suggesting potential areas for future research or implications of your findings.

Throughout the essay, maintain a balance between descriptive and analytical writing . Descriptive writing helps paint a picture for the reader, making the data and theories more relatable. Analytical writing, on the other hand, demonstrates your ability to think critically about the topic, evaluating and interpreting the information in a meaningful way.

Examples of Geography Essays

Diversity in style and approach marks the essence of geography writing. A popular method is the comparative approach, contrasting different geographical phenomena. This method often appears in works comparing landscapes or urban vs. rural areas. Another common technique is the case study, focusing on a specific location or event for in-depth analysis of a particular issue.

Thematic approaches cover broader topics like climate change, globalization, or human migration, weaving together various theories and data for a comprehensive view. Additionally, argumentative compositions present a thesis supported by geographical evidence, frequently seen in discussions about environmental policies or land use conflicts.

Each style offers unique insights, providing varied ways to explore and understand geographical concepts and issues. For an in-depth exploration and diverse perspectives on these topics, consider reviewing geography essay examples. This resource can enrich your understanding and offer a broad spectrum of approaches to geographical analysis, from case studies on environmental conservation to essays on urban development and spatial inequalities.

• Geography Unveiled: Costa Rica’s Absolute Location Revealed
• Geography Unveiled: Navigating Earth’s Spatial Tapestry through Five Themes
• The Ever-Changing Canvas of New England Weather
• The Mystique and Marvels of the Desert Biome
• The Impact of Geography on the Development of Egypt

Unlocking the World: Key Insights from Our Geographic Exploration

This journey through the realm of geography reveals the field’s depth and complexity. From initial planning to diverse writing methods, the main insight stands out: geography compositions are more than maps and data; they are about comprehending our world’s rich tapestry. They balance descriptive narrative and critical analysis, backed by meticulous research and credible sources.

Whether exploring climate change impacts, urban developments, or cultural landscapes, these works offer a lens to see and understand the world anew. They prompt critical thinking about our environment and our place in it. Navigating various geographic topics brings not just academic insights but also life lessons in appreciating our world’s complexity and beauty.

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How to Write a Geography Essay: Structure, Tips, FAQs

Geography reveals fascinating facts about our planet, like the Dead Sea's buoyancy due to its high salt content. Similarly, writing a geography essay can be just as interesting.

In this guide, our paper writing service experts will discuss what defines this type of essay and share some tips for writing a great one. You’ll learn its key components and see why geography is relevant today. Whether you're a student aiming for success in geography or simply curious about its significance, let's begin!

What is a Geography Essay

A geography essay is a piece of writing that explores a topic related to the Earth's surface and its features. It goes beyond just memorizing locations. There are two main things a geography essay might explore:

• Physical features: This could be about mountains, rivers, oceans, deserts, or any other natural aspect of the Earth. The essay might explain how these features formed, how they affect the environment, or how they influence human life.
• Human-made features and influences: This could be about cities, borders, agriculture, or any other way humans have shaped the planet. The essay might discuss why these features exist where they do, or how they interact with the natural world.

In the next parts, our skilled writers, who you can buy essay from, will share a simple guide to help you write these essays successfully.

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How to Write a Geography Essay

Writing a geography essay can be broken down into clear steps. Here's a roadmap to guide you:

• Understand the question: Make sure you grasp what the essay prompt is asking you to explore.
• Do your research: Gather information from reliable sources like textbooks, scientific journals, or reputable websites. Remember, a strong essay needs a solid foundation of facts.
• Craft your thesis statement: This is the main idea your essay will explore. Think of it as the sentence that summarizes the whole chapter of your story.
• Introduction: Grab the reader's attention with a captivating opening and introduce your topic. Briefly mention your thesis statement.
• Body paragraphs: Each paragraph should focus on one key point that supports your thesis. Use clear explanations, examples (like real-world places or case studies), and geographical terms to back up your ideas.
• Conclusion: Wrap up your essay by summarizing your main points and leaving the reader with a final thought that reinforces your thesis.
• Proofread and edit: Double-check your work for spelling mistakes, grammatical errors, and clarity of your writing. Make sure your essay flows smoothly and transitions well between ideas.

Remember, geography essays explain the "why" behind where things are and how they interact. Use clear language, relevant examples, and a well-organized structure to build a strong and informative essay about our amazing planet.

While you’re at it, find out all about a cause and effect essay and how to write it in our separate guide!

How to Start a Geography Essay

The introduction is your chance to grab the reader's attention and set the stage for your exploration. Here are some tips to craft a compelling opening for your geography essay:

How to End a Geography Essay

A strong conclusion leaves the reader with a lasting impression and reinforces the key takeaways from your essay. Here's how to write a conclusion for an essay :

Geography Essay Example

For a closer look at how to structure and compose an effective geography essay, we've put together a compelling example for your review. As you go through it, you'll discover the essential elements that contribute to making an essay both informative and engaging.

For more inspiration for your upcoming writing project, check out our extensive list of research paper topics . 

Geography Essay Structure

We've covered the essential elements of a geography essay, but crafting a truly strong piece requires attention to detail within the structure. Here are some additional points to consider:

Tips for Writing a Geography Essay

Here are some final tips to equip you for crafting a stellar geography essay:

• Know Your Audience: Consider who will be reading your essay. Is it for a general audience or a professor well-versed in geography? Tailor your language complexity and level of detail accordingly.
• Focus on Clarity, Not Jargon: While geographical terms are important, avoid overusing complex vocabulary that might alienate your reader. Explain technical terms if necessary, and strive for clear, concise writing.
• Active Voice is Your Friend: Geography is about a dynamic planet! Use active voice to make your essay engaging and avoid passive constructions that can sound dull.
• Proofread and Edit Ruthlessly: Typos and grammatical errors can undermine your essay's credibility. Take the time to proofread meticulously and have someone else review your work for a fresh perspective.
• Practice Makes Progress: The more you write about geography, the more comfortable you'll become. Don't be afraid to practice writing about different geographical topics to hone your skills.

This guide has equipped you with the tools to write a good geography essay. Remember, it's all about understanding the why behind where things are on Earth. Use clear language, strong examples, and a well-organized structure to craft an essay that explores our amazing planet in a compelling way. So, get out there, research your topic, and impress your professor!

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How Do You Start a Geography Essay?

What is geographical essay, what is the structure of the geography essay.

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is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

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• Updated writing steps, structure and tips
• Added new essay sample and FAQs
• Geography Essay Writing Guidelines . (n.d.). https://www.adelaide.edu.au/writingcentre/ua/media/40/learningguide-geographyessay.pdf 
• Extended Response Writing HSC Geography . (n.d.). Retrieved July 9, 2024, from https://gtansw.org.au/files/resources/SeniorGeography/2017/2a.%20Grace%20Larobina%20%20Extended%20Response%20Writing.pdf 

How to Write a Geography Essay Step by Step

Table of Contents

Introduction to Geography Essays

Importance of essay writing in geography.

Essay writing in geography is crucial as it allows students and researchers to explore complex environmental, physical, and societal issues. It enables the synthesis of empirical data and theoretical frameworks, fostering critical thinking and communication skills.

Brief Overview of Common Types of Geography Essays

Geography essays come in various forms, each serving a different purpose:

• Research Papers: These involve in-depth analysis of geographic phenomena using primary and secondary data.
• Comparative Essays: They examine the similarities and differences between two or more geographic entities.
• Argumentative Essays: These essays present a stance on a geographic issue, supported by evidence and logical reasoning.

Understanding the Essay Question

How to interpret essay prompts.

To correctly interpret essay prompts, one must read the question carefully, noting any specific instructions or scope defined. Break down the prompt to understand what the examiner is asking for.

Identifying Key Terms and Directives

Key terms are the concepts central to the question, while directives are action words like “discuss,” “compare,” or “analyze” that dictate the approach to be taken. Identifying these helps in aligning your essay with the expectations of the question.

Research and Sources

Finding reputable sources for geographic data and theories.

Utilize academic databases, government publications, and verified online resources to gather reliable geographic data and theoretical perspectives. Libraries and academic journals are also invaluable sources.

Evaluating and Citing Sources Properly

Assess the credibility of sources by checking the author’s credentials, publication date, and the publisher’s reputation. Cite sources using the appropriate academic style guide to avoid plagiarism.

Balancing Quantitative Data with Qualitative Insights

Incorporate statistical data to support claims while also providing qualitative observations for a well-rounded argument. This balance ensures a comprehensive exploration of geographic issues.

Planning the Essay

Creating an outline to structure thoughts and research.

An outline serves as a roadmap for your essay. Start with the introduction, then detail each body paragraph’s main idea, and conclude with a summary of your argument and findings.

The Significance of a Thesis Statement

A thesis statement is the centerpiece of your essay. It should clearly express the main argument or claim of your essay and guide the development of your supporting points. It is usually placed at the end of the introduction.

Writing the Essay

Crafting an engaging introduction.

Begin with a hook that captures the reader’s interest. Provide context for your topic, and establish the relevance of the essay. End the introduction with a clear thesis statement that outlines your argument or perspective.

Body Paragraphs

Each paragraph should begin with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea. Build your argument by integrating evidence, data, and geographic models or theories. Ensure each piece of evidence is analyzed and connected back to your thesis.

Concluding Effectively

The conclusion should restate your thesis, summarize the main points of your body paragraphs, and highlight the broader implications of your findings. Avoid introducing new information; instead, close the essay by reflecting on its significance.

Referencing and Bibliography

Overview of citation styles common in geography.

Geography papers commonly use APA or Chicago citation styles. Familiarize yourself with the one required for your essay, as each has specific rules for formatting in-text citations and bibliography entries.

Importance of Avoiding Plagiarism

Always credit the original authors of your sources. Use quotations for direct citations and paraphrase information with proper attribution. Plagiarism undermines your credibility and can have serious academic consequences.

Editing and Proofreading

Strategies for effective editing.

Review your essay multiple times, focusing on different aspects: content, structure, and clarity. Check for coherence in your arguments and the seamless integration of evidence.

Tips for Grammar, Punctuation, and Stylistic Consistency

Use tools like grammar checkers, but also manually review your essay. Pay attention to sentence structure, punctuation, and ensure stylistic consistency throughout the document.

Presentation and Submission

Adhering to format guidelines.

Follow the specified guidelines for font size, margins, spacing, and headers. Consistent formatting contributes to the professionalism and readability of your essay.

Importance of Visual Elements in Geography Essays

Visual elements like maps and graphs are crucial. They should be clear, well-labeled, and referenced in the text. Ensure they are relevant and enhance the reader’s understanding of your argument.

Examples and Resources

Examples of strong thesis statements and well-structured paragraphs.

• Thesis Statement: “The impact of climate change on coastal cities is multifaceted, leading to not only physical changes but also socio-economic challenges.”
• Paragraph Structure: Start with a clear topic sentence, followed by evidence and analysis, and conclude with a sentence that ties back to the essay’s thesis.

List of Resources for Further Support

• Writing Centers: Many educational institutions offer writing support services.
• Online Tools: Grammarly for proofreading, Zotero for managing citations, and Purdue OWL for style guidelines.
• Academic Journals: Access through your institution’s library for examples of scholarly work.

Remember, writing a geography essay is as much about showcasing your knowledge as it is about effective communication. Ensure that each part of your essay works towards clearly presenting your findings and analysis.

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Essay Samples on Geography

Exploring why geography is important.

Why is geography important? This question beckons us to recognize the pivotal role that geography plays in shaping our understanding of the world around us. Geography extends beyond mere maps and coordinates—it encompasses a diverse range of concepts that impact our lives, societies, and the...

Exploring the Dimensions of "What is Geography"

What is geography? This seemingly simple question opens the door to a world of complexity, discovery, and understanding. Geography is not merely about memorizing maps or reciting the names of countries—it is a multidimensional field that delves into the interactions between people, places, and the...

Physical Geography: Exploring Earth's Natural Marvels

Physical geography is a captivating field that delves into the natural processes and features that shape our planet's surface. It investigates the forces that have sculpted mountains, carved valleys, shaped coastlines, and molded landscapes over millions of years. In this essay, we embark on a...

Exploring the 5 Themes of Geography: Understanding the Earth's Complexities

The 5 themes of geography provide a comprehensive framework for studying and interpreting the diverse landscapes, cultures, and interactions that shape our planet. Developed by geographer Jean-Pierre De Bar in 1986, these themes serve as a guide for exploring the complexities of our world. In...

The Need for Geography Study in the Context of Today’s World

Geography entails the study of the earth and it’s atmosphere, as well as the human activities that it affects and is affected by – a great portion of this has to do with the distribution of populations and resources and political and economic activities. It...

• Globalization

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Discovering Problematic Issues During the History of Geography

Geography as a discipline has progressed dramatically since its colonial roots (pre-1700s) and has proceeded to become one of the most important studies in world history, being utilized in wars and everyday politics. Geography, however, has also been one of the most divided studies, in...

• Social Problems

In-Depth Explanation of the Main Concepts of Political Geography

During this essay, political geography will be explained, with the different types of politics outlined, as well as how politics have altered the history of Belfast. This essay will also provide an in-depth explanation of the key geographical concepts that are place, territory and identity,...

• Human Population

Analysis Of The Geographical Position And Features Of Egypt

In this essay I going to speak about Egypt's geography, its latitude and longitude coordinates are 26.8206° N, 30.8025° E and Cairo (the capital city) is 30° 2' N, 31° 14' E. It is located in North-East Africa, and it has borders with the Red...

Best topics on Geography

1. Exploring Why Geography is Important

2. Exploring the Dimensions of “What is Geography”

3. Physical Geography: Exploring Earth’s Natural Marvels

4. Exploring the 5 Themes of Geography: Understanding the Earth’s Complexities

5. The Need for Geography Study in the Context of Today’s World

6. Discovering Problematic Issues During the History of Geography

7. In-Depth Explanation of the Main Concepts of Political Geography

8. Analysis Of The Geographical Position And Features Of Egypt

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• Mathematics in Everyday Life
• Scientific Method

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How to master A Level Geography 20-mark essay questions

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What should I do before attempting an A Level Geography 20-mark essay question?

Should i plan an a level geography 20-mark essay, how should i structure an a level geography 20-mark essay.

As we run up to exam season, many of you will now be completing your NEAs (non-examined assessment) and exam content, and starting to focus on exam technique. You may be thinking about how you will tackle the dreaded 20-mark essay questions . Essay questions are very much like marmite for students. Some love them as they get the chance to explore key geographic theories and showcase their knowledge and understanding, which may not be possible in lower-stakes questions. However, others may struggle to formulate their geographic ideas or structure them in a way that makes a convincing argument.

In my experience, all A Level geography students must be systematic and structured in the way they write their long-form answers. This approach ensures that students cover all the necessary content while also demonstrating the geographic skills that examiners are assessing.

Examiners use both AO1 and AO2 to evaluate students in essay questions. AO1 requires students to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of places, environments, concepts, processes, interactions and change at various scales. AO2 deals with the application of knowledge and understanding in different contexts to interpret, analyse, and evaluate geographical information and issues. The strongest students can produce answers that balance the two aspects in their responses. If you weigh your answers too far toward knowledge recall and simply state facts, figures, and case study knowledge without doing anything with the knowledge (this is where command words are essential), you will not be able to achieve the highest levels described in the level descriptors.

Before you attempt essay questions, I suggest you take a look at the mark schemes for some past paper questions. It is important to focus on the level descriptors as these are what the examiners will use to assess your answers. Pay attention to the language they use to describe what they are looking for, and when you start your attempts, consider whether your language and writing style match the descriptors. The exam board mark schemes are available on the PMT A Level Geography past papers webpage .

Another place to look before attempting essay questions is the assessed sample answers produced by the exam boards (e.g. AQA Paper 1 Hazards Example Responses ). These are available on the exam board websites and show a range of pupil responses to exam questions. They come with a helpful commentary that explains how the pupils gained marks, highlights the importance of a well-structured response, and provides insight into what examiners are looking for when assessing your answers.

Where to start – command words

As mentioned above, it is very important for students to be systematic in their approach to answering 20 markers. The first thing students need to understand is the command word . Without knowledge of what the command word means and what it is asking you to do, you will not be able to fully engage with the question. To find out the meaning of different command words , you should visit your exam board’s website and look in the specification.

Essay questions tend to use the command words “to what extent” or “assess” . According to AQA, if the question includes the “to what extent” command word, you should “Consider several options, ideas or arguments and come to a conclusion about their importance/success/worth”. On the other hand, if it is an “assess” question, you should “use evidence to weigh up the options to determine the relative significance of something. Give balanced consideration to all factors and identify which are the most important.”

BUG the question

Command words can help guide you in how to structure your answers and the skills you need to exhibit. During KS3 and KS4, you may have been told to BUG the question, where B stands for box the command work , U for underline key terms , and G for glance back at the question .

I would encourage all A Level students to continue to use this strategy, even for longer essay questions. It will help ensure that you are answering the question you are being asked, rather than the question you wish you were being asked.

Failure to prepare is preparing to fail.

It is crucial for all students to plan their essay writing before they start answering a question. An essay question requires you to write for a sustained period, and if you don’t have a clear plan for what you’re going to write, you may lose focus on your points and arguments and not fully answer the question.

I suggest that all A Level students write a brief plan before attempting the question . This plan should outline the introduction, including key terms to define and any case studies to introduce, the main argument in each of your paragraphs, and finally, the contents of your conclusion. Spending just five minutes on this will save you time in the long run and help keep you on track to answering the question fully.

A good structure is key to success in essay writing. A clear structure enables you to answer the question coherently and reduces the chance that you will lose the key focus of your points. All of the exam boards recommend following the structure outlined below:

Introduction

• Main body of the answer (three to four key arguments)

In academia, this is sometimes known as the hourglass essay . An hourglass essay starts with a big idea, narrows down to a specific question, and then widens back out to explain why that specific question is important in the grand scheme of things.

The introduction of your essay should account for approximately 10% of the total essay length , and it’s an excellent opportunity for you to impress the examiner. Your essay introduction should give a broad view of the essay themes and provide a definition of the key terms that you have underlined in your question. It is also the place to introduce a case study location . A strong start to your essay is crucial as it demonstrates to the examiner that you have a clear understanding of the geographic content you’ve been studying.

Once you have written your introduction, you can then get on to answering the questions. While the introduction mainly covers AO1 (knowledge and understanding of geography), the main body of your answer should cover both AO1 and AO2 (analysis and evaluation in the application of knowledge and understanding).

As before, the way you structure the main body of your answer is very important, and you must form your points clearly and coherently. During my teaching and tutoring, I have seen many ways of forming these arguments/points, but the two most effective methods I have seen are using PEEL or PEACE paragraphs .

• E xplanation
• A pplication

Everyone is different, and everyone has their unique writing style. My advice to all A Level students is to try both methods when beginning to tackle essay questions and determine which one works best for you. I would also recommend completing PEEL/PEACE paragraphs and asking for feedback from your teacher or tutor.

The main body of the essay should consist of three to four arguments that cover the views for the specific question. Those who can link back to the question but also between their paragraphs will have the best chance of performing well in their essay questions.

After completing the main body, you now need to finish your essay with a conclusion. Just like the introduction, this should be roughly 10% of the total essay length . The main aim of the conclusion is to bring your essay to a close and essentially answer the question you have been asked. In the conclusion, you should summarise your argument and avoid introducing any new information . It is simply a chance to express your own thoughts and opinions while bringing your essay to a close.

The quality of a conclusion is often a key indicator of the overall quality of an essay. Although it is a short section of the whole piece of writing, it provides a platform to showcase several important geographic skills such as analysis, summarising, and creating synoptic links .

Overall, it is very important that you give yourself enough time to complete your essay questions during your examinations and that you follow the structures discussed above. If you follow these guidelines, you will see an improvement in the quality of your essay responses.

If you’re in Year 13 and in need of additional help, PMT Education runs Geography A Level Easter Crash Courses for AQA and Edexcel . Whether you need support with exam technique or want to revise key sections of the syllabus with the help of an experienced tutor, these courses will equip you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to excel in your summer exams.

Dave is a qualified teacher with 10 years of experience teaching GCSE and A Level Geography. He has worked as an assistant faculty leader for Humanities and a professional mentor for new and trainee teachers. He has also been involved with the supervision and guidance of NEAs. Dave currently works in higher education and trains geography teachers across the North West of England. He is also a tutor at PMT Education , with experience running highly successful geography courses .

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Home / Essay Samples / Science / Geography

Geography Essay Examples

Our curated compilation encompasses a wide spectrum of geography essays, offering thorough examinations of geographical phenomena, geological processes, and the intricate patterns that shape the Earth’s surface. From tectonic plate movements to the dynamics of climate change, these essays provide an in-depth exploration of the profound forces that influence our planet’s evolution.

Unveil the captivating interplay between landforms, climate, and human activities, painting a vivid picture of the world’s geographical diversity.

Understanding Geographic Principles Whether you’re crafting an essay on geography or seeking to comprehend the principles governing our natural and human environments, our collection delves into a wide range of topics. Engage with essays that dissect concepts such as spatial relationships, population dynamics, urbanization, and the complex dynamics of ecosystems.

Unearth the profound implications of geography on societal development, environmental conservation, and the interconnectedness of global communities. If your curiosity extends to unraveling the intersections between geography and human societies, our dedicated geography essay section offers insights into topics such as geopolitics, cultural landscapes, and the profound influence of geography on historical events. Engage with essays that analyze the role of geography in shaping trade routes, migration patterns, and the distribution of resources.

Exploring "My Side of the Mountain": a Journey into Wilderness and Self-discovery

"My Side of the Mountain," written by Jean Craighead George, is a captivating novel that takes readers on a unique journey of self-discovery through the eyes of a young protagonist. In this essay, we will delve into the world of "My Side of the Mountain,"...

Overpopulation and Unemployment: Exploring the Relationship

The issue of overpopulation and its potential impact on unemployment rates has become a topic of significant concern in many parts of the world. As populations continue to grow at unprecedented rates, questions about how this demographic trend affects job markets, economies, and social well-being...

How Did the Nile Shape Ancient Egypt and What Role It Played

The Nile River had a profound and transformative impact on the civilization of ancient Egypt. Its presence and characteristics shaped every aspect of Egyptian life, from agriculture and economy to culture and religion. In this paper we will investigare how did the Nile shape ancient...

Sacagawea: the Heroic Guide of the Lewis and Clark Expedition

Here is Sacagawea essay which gives a portrait of a Shoshone woman who played a crucial role in the success of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, a historic exploration of the American West in the early 1800s. Born in 1788 near what is now Idaho,...

An Exploration of American West: the Lewis and Clark Expedition

The Lewis and Clark Expedition was an exploration of the American West that took place from 1804 to 1806. The expedition was led by Captain Meriwether Lewis and Lieutenant William Clark, and it was commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson with the goal of exploring the...

African Symbol of Resilience and Vitality: the Nile River

The Nile River is one of the most important natural landmarks in the world. This Nile River essay provided a detailed exploration of the river's rich history, cultural significance, and current challenges. Spanning over 4,000 miles through ten different countries, it is the longest river...

Main Features Malthus' 'An Essay on the Principle of Population'

Thomas Robert Malthus (1766-1834) was an English economist and politician. He was born in Surrey, in a family which belonged to a class of gentry, which was considered as rather high up in the social hierarchy of England at that time. He was educated at...

Machu Picchu: a Place Worth Knowing About

Embedded inside the amazing landscape at the gathering point between the Amazon Basin and the Peruvian Andes, the Historic site of Machu Picchu. It is among the best building and land use accomplishments ever and the most recognisable piece of heritage from the ancient Inca...

Exploring the Significance of Medical Anthropology in Healthcare

The writer of “why is anthropology important essay” will define anthropology and medical anthropology and their roles. This essay will also discuss why medicine and anthropology are holistic and why and how to help understand disease. This will also include how people understand illness from...

Mitigating Air Pollution: a Comprehensive Look at Solutions

Its rarely happen now with us like opening the door and breathing fresh air , but the question is how clean is the air we are breathing right now? The gases that we are breathing could be slowly harming us. Air pollution is now a...

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• Grand Canyon
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• Human Population
• Easter Island
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• Times Square
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