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'The changing character of a place over time is more effectively represented by statistical and cartographical sources than artistic sources such as painting, poetry and photography.' With reference to either your local or distant place, critically assess the extent to which you agree with this statement. - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 2 - 2018 - Paper 2
Question 2
'The changing character of a place over time is more effectively represented by statistical and cartographical sources than artistic sources such as painting, poetry... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:'The changing character of a place over time is more effectively represented by statistical and cartographical sources than artistic sources such as painting, poetry and photography.' With reference to either your local or distant place, critically assess the extent to which you agree with this statement. - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 2 - 2018 - Paper 2
Step 1
Knowledge and understanding of the changing character of a place
Answer
To address the statement, begin by defining what is meant by the 'changing character of a place.' This involves understanding factors such as demographics, economic changes, environment, and land use over time.
For example, consider how different statistical sources, such as census data, can illustrate this character change quantitatively, showcasing trends in population growth or decline, age distribution, and employment rates.
Step 2
The role of statistical and cartographical sources
Answer
Explain the significance of statistical and cartographical sources. These sources offer a broad overview with hard data that can be analyzed over time. For instance, maps and charts can visually represent changes in land use and urbanization.
Discuss the benefits, such as reliability and objectivity, and the limitations, such as the potential for manipulation or lack of qualitative context. Provide specific examples of statistical surveys and historical maps to support your argument.
Step 3
The contribution of artistic sources
Answer
Evaluate how artistic sources like paintings and poetry contribute to our understanding of a place's character. These sources can capture the emotional and subjective experiences associated with a place and may reflect community sentiments and cultural narratives.
For example, photography captures specific moments that may not be reflected in statistical data, providing depth and insight into qualitative aspects like community values and cultural heritage.
Step 4
Critical assessment and conclusion
Answer
Conclude by weighing the effectiveness of both types of sources. While statistical and cartographical sources provide a concrete representation of changes, artistic sources offer nuance and context. Reflect on whether you agree with the statement as a whole, considering which sources you find more persuasive in showcasing the evolving character of your chosen place.
Ultimately, a balanced understanding might suggest that both source types are necessary for a comprehensive picture of a place's character over time.