How to Answer an "Assess the extent to which" 7 Mark Question (Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE Geography): Revision Note
Syllabus Edition
First teaching 2025
First exams 2027
Exam code: 0460 & 0976
What is an "Assess the extent to which.." question?
In CIE IGCSE Geography (0460), there are two types of 7 mark question
In Section A on each of Paper 1 and 2 there is a 7 mark "Assess the extent to which" question which requires an evaluative judgement
In Section B (Questions 2–4(c)), the 7 mark questions use "Explain" or "Describe" and only test knowledge
No judgement is required there
Command phrase and assessment objectives
This question uses command phrases like "Assess the extent to which..."
The question tests:
AO1 (Knowledge and understanding)
AO3 (Evaluation and decision-making)
How the question is marked
Unlike the 5-mark "Evaluate" questions elsewhere on the paper, this question is not point-marked
The examiner reads your whole answer and decides which level it best fits, then places it within that level's mark range
Within a level examiners award:
The top mark if your answer convincingly meets the level statement
The middle mark if it adequately meets it
The bottom mark if it just meets it
Level 3 (6-7 marks)
A balanced/comprehensive answer which shows a clear understanding with developed statements which are relevant to the question
Answer is supported by relevant evidence and/or examples throughout
Answer contains a supported evaluation/judgement/decision on the question
Level 2 (3-5 marks)
An answer which shows a good understanding with developed statements which are relevant to the question
Answer is supported by some relevant evidence and/or examples
Answer contains a limited evaluation/judgement/decision on the question
Level 1 (1-2 marks)
An answer which shows limited understanding using simple statements which are relevant to the question
Level 0 (0 marks)
No creditable response
What separates Level 2 from Level 3?
Level 2 answers tend to describe points on both sides of the argument, but without much supporting detail, and the judgement is only implied or very brief
Level 3 answers name specific, developed evidence or examples for each point. It outlines not just that "technology can help" but exactly how. It ends with a clear, supported judgement that directly answers "to what extent"
How to answer an "Assess the extent to which.." question
Step 1
Read the question carefully and underline the command words
"Assess the extent to which technology can reduce the impacts of volcanic eruptions."
The command word "Assess" means that at the end of your answer you need to make an informed judgement
Step 2
Underline the key words.
"Assess the extent to which technology can reduce the impacts of volcanic eruptions."
In this example, you need to focus on examples of technology which can reduce the impacts of volcanic eruptions
Step 3
Plan the information you are going to include. This can be a short list of bullet points. For example:
Brief definition of outline of some technologies
How the technologies work and their effectiveness
Limitations of technologies
Final judgement about whether technology can reduce the impacts of eruptions
Step 4
Write your answer
To achieve 7 marks, you need to write at least 3 detailed statements
Do not make general statements
Be specific, for example:
'In Iceland, the eruption of Eyjafjallajökull in 2010 was predicted using seismic data, helping to reduce the impact on people.'
Whilst the question does not ask for a named volcano part of the criteria for level 3 is that the 'Answer is supported by relevant evidence and/or examples throughout'
Worked Example
Assess the extent to which technology can reduce the impacts of volcanic eruptions.
[7 marks]
Answer
Technology can significantly reduce the impacts of volcanic eruptions in several ways. Firstly, scientists can monitor seismic activity and volcanic gases to predict when a volcano might erupt. This allows early warnings to be issued and gives people time to evacuate safely [KU]. In Iceland, the eruption of Eyjafjallajökull in 2010 was predicted using seismic data, helping to reduce the impact on people [KU].
Technology also helps during the eruption. Satellites and radar can track ash clouds so that planes can avoid them or airports can be closed, preventing dangerous incidents in the air [KU]. For example, the closure of Bali's international airport during the eruption of Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki [KU].
However, technology does have its limits. It cannot stop an eruption or control how powerful it is. Toxic gases and ash cannot be easily diverted, which still pose serious health risks and can cause long-term damage [E]. Not all countries can afford expensive monitoring equipment, meaning poorer areas may suffer more damage because of lack of early warning [E].
In conclusion, while technology cannot prevent volcanic eruptions, it can play a major role in reducing their impacts, especially by giving people time to prepare. However, its effectiveness depends on the availability of resources and the type of eruption [E].
Mark allocation
This is a level of response answer. Each point made in the answer does not equal a mark. Marks are allocated against two assessment objectives:
AO1 Knowledge and Understanding [KU]
AO3 Evaluation and decision making [E]
A top level 3 (7 mark) answer will have a balanced, developed and evidenced answer that demonstrates knowledge and understanding [KU] to evaluate (judge or decide) [E] how technology can reduce the impacts of volcanic eruption
Common errors
Common errors where students lose marks:
A lack of evaluation or judgement about the value of different technology types
A lack of evidence or examples to support the answer
Alternative content
The answer above is just one example of a response to this question. Other information that could be used in the answer includes:
Technology can be used to divert/slow down lava flows
Technology relating to improved transport and medical care
The magnitude of the eruption cannot be controlled
Examiner Tips and Tricks
Notice this answer names real technologies (seismometers, monitoring of gases, satellite monitoring) and real eruptions (Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki and Eyjafjallajökull 2010) rather than just saying "technology helps" — that's what moves an answer from Level 2 ("some relevant evidence") into Level 3 ("supported by relevant evidence and/or examples throughout").
You don't need a full named case study here, since the question doesn't ask for one, but a few specific, real details do far more for your mark than extra generic sentences would.
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