The Macgillycuddy’s Reeks were formed during the Armorican folding period, 250 million years ago [3m]. This happened when the African and Eurasian Plate collided, which folded layers of Old Red Sandstone and limestone [3m]. This led to the formation of the Munster Ridge Valley that shaped the south-west of Ireland [3m].
Note that the answer in Part (i) is written as a full sentence rather than as a single word answer.
Part (ii) is divided into two parts: general explanation and explanation linked to an example. For the general explanation, the focus is on what happens when the different types of plate collide. The linked-to example shows that you are able to link the process of folding to an example of the action.
The answer is written is a logical order and each sentence contains a ‘building block’ for the explanation, meaning that each sentence leads clearly to the next.
Diagram: The diagram shows two plates colliding (be sure to insert arrows) as well as rock being buckled. Be sure to clearly label the type of boundary you have drawn and the type of crust.
The three aspects of the question are all dealt with in a clear and logical manner. This shows a clear understanding of both the task given and the topic being examined.
Marks Awarded
(i) mountain identified 3m (ii) diagram given and labelled 3 x 2m Best 7 SRPs @ 3m each Total 30/30
HIGHER LEVEL
The following question is a sample question based on the impact of folding on the Irish landscape. It is worth 30 marks and requires you to explain the processes of folding while linking it specifically to how folding has shaped the Irish landscape.
SAMPLE QUESTION
Using examples that you have studied, describe how the process of folding has impacted on the Irish landscape.
Example 1: Derryveagh Mountains Caledonian orogeny
North American + Eurasian Plates 450–400 mya
Shale/mudstone/sandstone folded Magma/metamorphose Caps on mountains peaks Weathering and erosion
Marking Scheme
Named examples 2 x 2m = 4m Discussion 13 SRPs @ 2m each A labelled diagram 1 SRP
Additional Information on labelled diagram = up to 2 SRPs
Example 2: Munster Ridge Valley Armorican orogeny
African + Eurasian Plates 270–250 mya
Old Red Sandstone/limestone Anticlines/synclines
Weathering and erosion Uplifted Burren region
When we read the question carefully, it is possible to work out the marking scheme before we begin.
Being asked to name more than one example allows you to divide the question into two sections:
example 1 + SRPs of explanation and example 2 + SRPs of explanation.
A general
introduction on the process of folding should also be given at the beginning of the answer.
PATTERNS AND PROCESSES IN THE PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT 101
