JULY 2023 FINAL BECE –SOCIAL STUDIES MARKING SCHEME
SECTION B
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QUESTION 1
a. Explain four benefits of maps.
Navigation and Wayfinding: Maps are invaluable tools for navigation, helping us find our way and
reach our desired destinations efficiently. Whether it's exploring a new city, planning a road trip, or
navigating through unfamiliar terrain, maps provide a visual representation of the surrounding area,
including landmarks, roads, and points of interest. They enable us to plot routes, identify alternate
paths, and make informed decisions about our travel plans.
Spatial Understanding and Planning: Maps provide a comprehensive view of spatial relationships
and geographic features. They allow us to understand the layout of an area, the proximity of
different locations, and the connections between them. This spatial awareness aids in effective
planning and decision-making. For example, urban planners use maps to analyze land use patterns,
determine suitable locations for infrastructure projects, and optimize transportation networks.
Geographic Analysis: Maps are essential for analyzing geographic data and conducting spatial
analysis. By overlaying various data sets onto a map, such as population demographics, land use, or
environmental factors, researchers can identify patterns, correlations, and trends. Maps enable us
to visually interpret complex data, making it easier to identify hotspots, clusters, or areas of interest.
This analysis can be used in fields like epidemiology, environmental science, business intelligence,
and urban planning.
Emergency Response and Disaster Management: Maps play a crucial role in emergency response
and disaster management. During crises such as natural disasters or public health emergencies,
maps provide critical information for coordinating rescue efforts, locating affected areas, and
planning evacuation routes. They help emergency responders and relief organizations understand
the affected geography, identify vulnerable populations, and allocate resources efficiently. Maps
also assist in communication and public awareness campaigns by illustrating risk zones and
providing real-time updates.
Cultural and Historical Preservation: Maps contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage and
historical knowledge. Historical maps offer glimpses into the past, showcasing how landscapes,
borders, and settlements have evolved over time. They aid in documenting historical events,
understanding ancient civilizations, and uncovering lost or forgotten sites. Cultural maps, on the
other hand, depict cultural landmarks, heritage sites, and indigenous territories, fostering a sense of
pride, identity, and heritage preservation within communities.
1.5 marks for each point and 1.5 marks for explanation = 12 marks
b. State and explain any two types of map.
Political Map: A political map primarily focuses on the boundaries and divisions of countries, states,
cities, and other political entities. It depicts territorial borders, capitals, major cities, and sometimes
includes other relevant political information such as disputed regions or administrative divisions.
Physical Map: A physical map showcases the physical features of a geographic area. It includes
landforms (mountains, valleys, plains), bodies of water (rivers, lakes, oceans), and other natural
features such as deserts, forests, or glaciers. Physical maps use colors and shading to depict
elevation and terrain variations.
Topographic Map: A topographic map provides detailed information about the elevation, relief, and
contours of a land surface. It utilizes contour lines to represent changes in elevation and may include
symbols to denote natural and human-made features like roads, buildings, and vegetation.
Thematic Map: Thematic maps are designed to display specific themes or topics. They can represent
various data sets such as population density, climate, economic indicators, transportation networks,
or any other subject of interest. Thematic maps use colors, patterns, or symbols to visualize the
specific data being portrayed.
Road Map: Road maps are primarily focused on providing navigational information for travelers.
They illustrate road networks, highways, streets, and transportation infrastructure. Road maps often
include symbols for landmarks, services (gas stations, rest areas), and distance indicators to assist in
route planning.
Climate Map: Climate maps depict climatic conditions and patterns of a region. They showcase
temperature ranges, precipitation levels, and other climatic parameters. Climate maps may use
color gradients, isolines, or symbols to represent different climate zones or weather patterns.
Historical Map: Historical maps represent geographic areas as they appeared in the past. They can
illustrate changes in political boundaries, territorial expansions, or the evolution of cities and
landmarks over time. Historical maps often incorporate annotations, dates, and labels to provide
historical context.
Nautical Chart: Nautical charts are specialized maps used for navigation at sea. They provide
detailed information about water bodies, coastlines, tides, depths, hazards, and navigational aids.
Nautical charts are essential tools for sailors and mariners.
Satellite Imagery Map: Satellite imagery maps use aerial photographs or images captured by
satellites to represent the Earth's surface. They offer a visual perspective of landscapes, cities, and
natural features. Satellite maps are widely used for environmental monitoring, urban planning, and
geographical analysis.
2 marks for point and 2 marks for explanation = 8 marks
QUESTION 2
a. Explain Plateau
A plateau refers to a flat or gently sloping elevated area of land. It is typically characterized by its
relatively flat terrain, which is elevated above the surrounding areas.
2 marks
b. Describe three ways plateaus are formed
Tectonic Uplift: Plateaus often form as a result of tectonic forces. When two tectonic plates
collide, they can create immense pressure and force the land to uplift. This uplift can occur due
to processes like crustal folding, faulting, or the collision of continental plates.
Volcanic Activity: Plateaus can also be formed through volcanic activity. When volcanic
eruptions occur, they release lava and volcanic ash onto the surface. Over time, repeated
volcanic eruptions can build up layers of solidified lava and ash, creating a volcanic plateau.
Erosion and Weathering: Once the landmass is uplifted or formed through volcanic activity,
erosion and weathering play a crucial role in shaping plateaus. Water, wind, and ice gradually
erode the elevated land, removing the softer sedimentary rocks and exposing harder, resistant
rocks underneath. This differential erosion results in the formation of a relatively flat plateau
surface with steep sides.
Geological Uplift and Subsidence: Plateaus can also form through processes of geological uplift
and subsidence. Regions that experience long-term uplift or undergo tectonic activities may lead
to the formation of elevated flatlands. Conversely, subsidence, which is the sinking or
downward movement of the Earth's crust, can create basins or lowlands surrounding the
plateau.
Lateral Spreading: Plateaus can be formed through lateral spreading, which occurs when the
crust stretches horizontally. This can happen along fault lines or as a result of tensional forces.
The stretching of the crust leads to the formation of elevated, flat land areas.
1.5 marks for each point and 1.5 marks for explanation = 9 marks
c. State and explain three characteristics of metamorphic rocks
Recrystallization: Metamorphic rocks exhibit a new arrangement of mineral grains that are
typically larger and more interlocked compared to the original rock. This process occurs as the
rock undergoes extreme heat and pressure, causing the minerals to recrystallize and form new
mineral grains.
Foliation: Metamorphic rocks often exhibit a parallel alignment of mineral grains, giving them a
layered or banded appearance. This alignment is known as foliation and is a result of the
pressure exerted on the rock, causing minerals to realign in a preferred orientation. Foliation is
commonly seen in rocks such as slate and schist.
Changes in mineral composition: Metamorphic rocks can undergo mineralogical changes during
their formation. Under the influence of heat and pressure, minerals may break down and
recrystallize into new minerals. For example, the mineral mica can transform into garnet during
metamorphism, resulting in a change in the overall composition of the rock.
Metamorphic grade: Metamorphic rocks can be classified based on their metamorphic grade,
which indicates the intensity of the metamorphic conditions they have experienced.
Metamorphic grade is determined by factors such as temperature and pressure. Low-grade
metamorphic rocks, such as slate, have undergone mild changes, while high-grade metamorphic
rocks, such as gneiss, have experienced more intense metamorphic conditions.
Parent rock identification: Metamorphic rocks retain some characteristics of their parent rocks,
which are the original rocks from which they formed. By examining the mineral composition and
texture of a metamorphic rock, geologists can often infer the type of parent rock it originated
from. For example, marble, a metamorphic rock, is typically formed from limestone, a
sedimentary rock, and retains its characteristic calcite composition
1.5 marks for each point and 1.5 marks for explanation = 9 marks
QUESTION 3
a. State four functions of the Regional Co-ordinating Council in Ghana.
* Regional coordinating Council formulate policies and programs for all the districts in the region.
* Regional Co-ordinating Council monitors the implementation of government's policies and
programmes in all districts in the region.
* Regional Co-ordinating Council ensures that funds from the central government to the districts for
projects are judiciously utilised for the intended purpose.
*It co-ordinates the activities and programmes of all ministries, departments and agencies at the
regional and district level.
1 mark each X 4 = 4 marks
b. Describe the structure of the government at the national level in Ghana.
The government structure of Ghana at the national level consists of three branches: the executive,
legislative, and judicial branches.
Executive Branch:
The executive branch of the Ghanaian government is headed by the President, who serves as both
the head of state and the head of government. The President is elected by popular vote for a four-
year term and can serve a maximum of two terms. The President is responsible for executing and
enforcing laws, managing the affairs of the state, and representing Ghana domestically and
internationally. The President appoints various officials and heads of ministries to assist in
governance. The Vice President supports the President and assumes the presidency in case of the
President's absence or incapacity.
Legislative Branch:
The legislative branch of Ghana is the Parliament, which is responsible for making laws, representing
the interests of the people, and providing oversight of the executive branch. The Parliament consists
of two chambers:
a. The unicameral Parliament: This chamber, known as the Parliament of Ghana, is composed of
Members of Parliament (MPs) who are elected by citizens in constituencies across the country. The
number of MPs varies over time but generally includes representatives from each constituency.
b. Council of State: This advisory body is made up of representatives from various sectors, including
traditional leaders, former government officials, and appointed members. The Council of State
provides guidance to the President on matters of national importance.
Judicial Branch:
The judicial branch in Ghana is independent of the executive and legislative branches. It ensures the
interpretation and application of the law. The highest court in the country is the Supreme Court,
which consists of the Chief Justice and other justices appointed by the President. The judiciary is
responsible for resolving disputes, protecting constitutional rights, and upholding the rule of law.
4 marks for each branch = 12 marks
c. Outline four reasons why the Poll Tax failed.
* The local people complained that their traditional rulers did not inform them about the tax before
it was introduced.
* The local people opposed the tax collectors when they realised they were selected by the colonial
administration and not their traditional rulers.
* Some refused to pay the tax when they realised that part of the money was used to pay the
salaries, allowances and wages of the workers in the traditional councils and the colonial office.
* Some of the Chiefs who could not bear the heat generated by the Poll Tax took sides with their
people and encouraged them not to pay.
1 mark each X 4 = 4 marks
QUESTION 4
a. Differentiate between Bilateral Co-operation and Multilateral Co-operation.
Bilateral Cooperation:
Bilateral cooperation refers to the collaboration between two countries or entities. It involves
the direct interaction and exchange of resources, expertise, and support between two specific
parties. Bilateral cooperation typically focuses on the interests and needs of the involved parties
and aims to achieve mutual benefits. This form of cooperation allows countries to establish
specific agreements and tailor their collaboration to address shared concerns or objectives.
Examples of bilateral cooperation include trade agreements, military alliances, cultural
exchanges, and development projects between two nations.
Multilateral Cooperation:
Multilateral cooperation involves the collaboration among three or more countries or entities. It
typically occurs within the framework of international organizations, such as the United Nations
(UN), World Trade Organization (WTO), or regional bodies like the European Union (EU).
Multilateral cooperation seeks to address global or regional issues that require collective action
and coordination among multiple nations. It emphasizes consensus-building, negotiation, and
the pooling of resources and expertise to achieve common goals. Examples of multilateral
cooperation include peacekeeping missions, climate change agreements, economic treaties, and
efforts to combat transnational issues like terrorism or pandemics.
2 marks each = 4 marks
b. Explain four achievements of the United Nations Organization.(UNO)
Promotion of International Peace and Security: One of the primary objectives of the UNO is to
maintain international peace and security. The organization has played a pivotal role in
preventing and resolving conflicts around the world. It has facilitated peacekeeping operations
in various regions, such as Cyprus, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the Middle East. The
UNO's peacekeeping missions involve deploying military personnel, observers, and civilian
personnel to help stabilize conflict-ridden areas and create conditions for peace negotiations.
Advancement of Human Rights: The UNO has been at the forefront of promoting and
protecting human rights globally. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted by the UN
General Assembly in 1948, sets out fundamental human rights and has served as a cornerstone
for international human rights law. The UNO has established various bodies and mechanisms,
including the Human Rights Council and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights,
to monitor human rights violations, promote accountability, and advocate for the rights of
individuals worldwide.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): In 2015, the UNO launched the 2030 Agenda for
Sustainable Development, a comprehensive blueprint aimed at addressing social, economic, and
environmental challenges. The agenda consists of 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
that encompass various targets and indicators, including eradicating poverty, ensuring quality
education, achieving gender equality, combating climate change, and promoting sustainable
cities. The SDGs provide a framework for countries to work together, mobilize resources, and
tackle pressing global issues.
Humanitarian Assistance and Development Aid: The UNO has been instrumental in providing
humanitarian assistance and development aid to countries facing crises or in need of support.
The United Nations has established agencies and programs such as the United Nations
Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), the World Food
Programme (WFP), and the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) to
coordinate relief efforts, deliver aid, and address long-term development challenges. These
agencies work together to alleviate poverty, improve healthcare and education, respond to
natural disasters, and support vulnerable populations, including refugees and internally
displaced persons.
2 marks for each point and 2 marks for explanation X 4 = 16 marks
QUESTION 5
a. What is Production ?
Production refers to the process of creating goods or providing services through various activities and
resources. It involves the transformation of inputs, such as raw materials, labor, and capital, into
outputs, which can be tangible products or intangible services. The goal of production is to satisfy the
needs and wants of consumers by generating valuable and desirable goods or services.
Production typically involves several key components, including planning, organizing, coordinating, and
controlling resources to achieve efficient and effective output. These resources can include physical
assets like machinery, equipment, and facilities, as well as human resources such as workers, managers,
and technicians.
4 marks
b. Discuss four problems faced by the fishing industry in Ghana.
Overfishing: Overfishing is a major concern in Ghana's waters. The demand for fish has increased
due to population growth and economic development, leading to excessive fishing efforts. The use
of destructive fishing practices such as trawling, dynamite fishing, and illegal fishing exacerbates the
problem. Overfishing depletes fish stocks, disrupts ecosystems, and threatens the long-term viability
of the industry. It also impacts the livelihoods of local communities who depend on fishing for their
income and food security.
Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing: IUU fishing is a significant problem in Ghana. It
involves fishing activities that violate national and international regulations, including operating
without proper licenses, disregarding fishing quotas, and engaging in destructive practices. IUU
fishing not only undermines the sustainability of fish stocks but also leads to economic losses for
legitimate fishermen. It hampers the government's ability to manage fisheries effectively and
enforce conservation measures.
Poor Fisheries Management: Weak fisheries management practices contribute to the challenges
faced by the fishing industry. Inadequate data collection, lack of effective monitoring and
surveillance systems, and limited enforcement capacity hinder the government's ability to regulate
fishing activities and ensure sustainable practices. The absence of well-defined property rights and
effective governance structures further complicates management efforts. Without proper
management, the industry is more susceptible to overfishing, depletion of stocks, and ecosystem
degradation.
Climate Change and Environmental Degradation: Ghana's fishing industry is also impacted by
climate change and environmental degradation. Rising sea temperatures, ocean acidification, and
unpredictable weather patterns affect fish habitats, migration patterns, and reproductive cycles.
These changes disrupt ecosystems and can lead to reduced fish populations. Additionally, pollution
from industrial activities, coastal development, and improper waste disposal pose threats to marine
life and fishing grounds. These environmental challenges exacerbate the vulnerability of the fishing
industry in Ghana.
2 marks for each point and 2 marks for explanation X 4 = 16 marks
QUESTION 6
a. Explain four hindrances to economic development of Ghana.
Limited Infrastructure: Inadequate infrastructure is a significant hindrance to economic
development in Ghana. Insufficient transportation networks, including roads, railways, and ports,
make it difficult to transport goods and hinder trade. In addition, limited access to reliable
electricity and clean water affects industrial productivity and hampers the growth of businesses.
Improving infrastructure is crucial to attracting investments and facilitating economic activities.
Dependency on Primary Exports: Ghana's economy heavily relies on the export of primary
commodities such as cocoa, gold, and oil. Depending on a few commodities makes the economy
vulnerable to price fluctuations in international markets, affecting Ghana's revenue and
economic stability. Diversification into manufacturing and other value-added industries is
essential to reduce dependence on primary exports and foster sustained economic growth.
Weak Industrial Base: Ghana faces challenges in developing a strong industrial base. Limited
access to finance, inadequate technology, and a lack of skilled labor hinder the growth of
manufacturing and industrial sectors. The country often relies on imports for finished goods,
which affects its balance of trade and limits opportunities for domestic job creation.
Encouraging entrepreneurship, promoting technological advancements, and investing in
vocational training can help strengthen the industrial sector.
Inadequate Education and Skills Development: Education and skills development play a crucial
role in driving economic development. Ghana faces challenges in providing quality education,
especially in rural areas. Insufficient investment in education and lack of access to vocational
training programs contribute to a shortage of skilled labor, hindering productivity and
innovation. Enhancing educational infrastructure, expanding access to quality education, and
promoting technical and vocational training can address this hindrance.
2 marks for each point and 2 marks for explanation X 4 = 16 marks
b. State four causes of high illiteracy rate in Ghana.
* Inadequate educational infrastructure in most rural communities
* Inconsistency in educational policies
* Poor motivation of teachers
* Most rural dwellers do not value education
1 mark each X 4 = 4 marks
OBJECTIVES
1.B 6.C 11.C 16.B 21.D 26.C 31.D 36.C
2.A 7.C 12.A 17.D 22.C 27.B 32.B 37.D
3.A 8.B 13.A 18.D 23.D 28.B 33.D 38.C
4.A 9.B 14.C 19.C 24.B 29.A 34.D 39.C
5.B 10.D 15.D 20.C 25.B 30.B 35.D 40.D
