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Assess the extent to which population change in one country you have studied fits the demographic transition model. - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 4 - 2018 - Paper 2
Question 4
Assess the extent to which population change in one country you have studied fits the demographic transition model.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Assess the extent to which population change in one country you have studied fits the demographic transition model. - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 4 - 2018 - Paper 2
Step 1
Knowledge and Understanding of Population Change
Answer
To assess how population change in a specific country aligns with the demographic transition model (DTM), it is essential to explain the core features of population dynamics such as birth rates, death rates, and overall population growth. The DTM outlines five stages of population change: 1. High stationary, 2. Early expanding, 3. Late expanding, 4. Low stationary, and 5. Declining. For instance, the case study may focus on a country like Uganda, which is in Stage 2, where there is a high birth rate and declining death rate, showcasing rapid population growth.
Step 2
Evaluation of the DTM to the Selected Country
Answer
Once the characteristics of the population change are established, the next step is to evaluate the extent to which the country's situation corresponds with the DTM. For example, one could analyze recent trends in birth and death rates compared to the expected patterns in the DTM. This involves addressing how factors such as healthcare improvements and economic changes influence these rates. A country might show signs of moving towards Stage 3 of the DTM, reflecting a decline in birth rates in response to changing social attitudes, education, and access to contraceptives.
Step 3
Analysis of Limitations and Additional Factors
Answer
It is crucial to discuss the limitations of the DTM when applying it to the selected country, as the model does not account for unique social, political, and economic contexts. Some countries may not fit neatly within the stages as outlined by the DTM; for instance, India has shown some stagnation in the decline of birth rates despite being categorized as Stage 3. Additionally, migration patterns and governmental policies, such as the one-child policy in China, can dramatically alter expected outcomes and should also be considered in the assessment.