AQA GCSE Geography Paper 2 2025 Mark Scheme

Download the official AQA GCSE Geography Paper 2: Challenges in the Human Environment mark scheme for the June 2025 exam series (8035/2) — Version 1.0 Final. This examiner-approved document contains the full answer key, level descriptors, and detailed marking guidance used during standardisation. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

The mark scheme provides correct answers for all Section A, B, and C questions, including key responses such as:
- Urbanisation defined as the increasing proportion of people living in towns and cities (*page 7*)
- Asia identified as the continent with the most new megacities (*page 7*)
- 100% growth for Nairobi (*page 7*)
- Calculation answers such as 61% population range and 18% mean change (*pages 18–19*)

It also includes detailed level-of-response marking criteria for 4, 6, and 9 mark questions. For example, *pages 8–13* explain how to achieve top-level answers by combining AO1 knowledge, AO2 understanding, and AO3 application, with clear expectations for using figures, case studies, and evaluation.

Extended-response questions (such as urban growth in LIC/NEEs and TNC impacts) include indicative content showing exactly what examiners expect in high-scoring answers, including use of real-world examples like Lagos, Mumbai, and Shell in Nigeria (*pages 12–23*).

The mark scheme also explains the “best fit” approach used by examiners, where answers are judged holistically rather than by checklist, and includes full SPaG marking criteria for 9-mark questions (*page 5*).

This resource is essential for understanding how marks are awarded, improving exam technique, and identifying exactly what is needed to reach Grade 7–9 responses.

Use alongside the AQA 8035/2 June 2025 question paper for complete exam practice.

This mark scheme is designed for GCSE Geography students preparing for the 2026 exams, including Year 11 students, retake candidates, and independent learners aiming for top grades.

It is also essential for teachers and tutors who need official examiner guidance for marking practice papers, standardising assessments, and improving student performance. Parents can use it to understand how answers are assessed and where marks are gained or lost.