Drawing Evidenced Conclusions (OCR GCSE Geography B (Geography for Enquiring Minds)): Revision Notes
Drawing Evidenced Conclusions
What are evidenced conclusions?
After completing data analysis in fieldwork, geographers must form conclusions that respond to their original enquiry question. A conclusion brings together what the investigation has revealed and interprets the meaning of the findings.
An evidenced conclusion is one that is backed up by data gathered during fieldwork activities. This means every statement in your conclusion must be supported by actual measurements, observations, or information you collected in the field.
Using evidence from the data
Strong conclusions make clear links to the findings and trends identified during your analysis phase. Rather than making general statements, you should reference specific results that emerged from your fieldwork investigation.
Worked Example: River velocity study
Enquiry question: How does river velocity change downstream?
Example conclusion: The findings demonstrate that river velocity typically rose at each location further downstream, indicating that the river operates more efficiently as it progresses along its course.
Why this works: This conclusion is effective because it is backed up by actual velocity measurements taken at different points during the fieldwork investigation. The student has used their collected data to support their interpretation.
Exam tip: When writing conclusions, always include phrases like "the data shows...", "the results indicate...", or "measurements revealed..." to demonstrate you are basing your answer on evidence.
Referring back to the enquiry question
A robust conclusion must clearly respond to the enquiry question you set at the start of your investigation. This keeps your work focused and ensures your findings have meaning and purpose.
When forming your conclusion, you need to explain whether your data:
- Supports the expected pattern – Your results match what geographical theory predicted would happen
- Shows a different trend – Your findings reveal something unexpected or contradict the theory
- Is inconclusive – Your data does not show a clear pattern or there is insufficient evidence to reach a firm conclusion
Being honest about what your data shows is crucial in geography. Sometimes results are unclear or unexpected, and acknowledging this demonstrates good geographical understanding.
Exam tip: Questions using command words like "evaluate" or "assess" want you to consider how well your data answers the enquiry question. Don't be afraid to mention limitations or unexpected results – this shows mature geographical thinking.
Exam guidance
When answering questions about drawing conclusions:
- Describe questions: State what the data shows with specific reference to figures or patterns
- Explain questions: Give reasons why the patterns occurred, linking to geographical processes
- Evaluate questions: Judge how well the conclusion answers the enquiry question, considering data reliability
Always link your conclusion explicitly to your enquiry question. Start your conclusion by restating the question, then provide your evidence-based answer.
Remember!
- An evidenced conclusion must be supported by data collected during fieldwork
- Always refer directly to results and patterns found in your analysis
- Make sure your conclusion clearly answers the original enquiry question
- Your data may support theory, show different trends, or be inconclusive – all are valid outcomes if evidenced
- Use specific figures, measurements, or observations to back up your statements