SCSA Geography Geographical Inquiry Skills
1 sample question with marking guides and sample answers
Analyse the rankings of the 10 most populous countries to explain the changing global pattern. Use evidence to support your analysis. Make an inference about one specific trend in the rankings continuing beyond 2050. Provide a reason to support your inference.
The world’s 10 most populous countries ranked — 1990, 2022 and 2050 (projected)
(total population in millions)
| 1990 | 2022 | 2050 (projected) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | China (1144) | China (1426) | India (1668) |
| 2 | India (861) | India (1412) | China (1317) |
| 3 | USA (246) | USA (337) | USA (375) |
| 4 | Indonesia (181) | Indonesia (275) | Nigeria (375) |
| 5 | Brazil (149) | Pakistan (234) | Pakistan (366) |
| 6 | Russian Federation (148) | Nigeria (216) | Indonesia (317) |
| 7 | Japan (123) | Brazil (215) | Brazil (231) |
| 8 | Pakistan (114) | Bangladesh (170) | Democratic Republic of the Congo (215) |
| 9 | Bangladesh (106) | Russian Federation (145) | Ethiopia (213) |
| 10 | Nigeria (94) | Mexico (127) | Bangladesh (204) |
Reveal Answer
Between 1990 and 2022, the four most populous countries were China, India, USA and Indonesia. In 2050, it is projected that India will be the most populous country, overtaking China, which will see a decline in population (down to 1317 million). Some countries will drop out of the top 10 by 2050, including Japan, the Russian Federation and Mexico, while other countries move into the top 10, like the DRC. Beyond 2050, India will likely retain the top position as its population continues to grow due to a possible increase in birth rate.
| Descriptor | Marks |
|---|---|
Provides an accurate analysis of the changing global pattern | 1 |
Uses evidence to support analysis | 1 |
Makes a plausible inference about one trend in the ranking beyond 2050 | 1 |
Provides a plausible reason for the inference | 1 |