Food Lorms Questions & Ans

7/23/2019 Food Lorms Questions & Ans

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for Hwa Chong Institution (High School) Geography IHE students only

QUESTIONS

1. Natural disasters are the primary causes of food scarcity in LEDCs.How far do you agree with this statement? Explain your answer. [8]

2. The exponential growth in population is the primary cause of food scarcity inLEDCs.How far do you agree with this statement? Explain your answer. [8]

3. Read the exerpt below and answer the following question.

Every year, more than 20 million children die of malnutrition, especially in theLEDCs. An international humanitarian organisation, Médecins SansFrontières, is urging policymakers to pay greater attention to recentdevelopments in food production such as application of biotechnology so asto overcome the problems of malnutrition.To what extent do you agree that the recent developments in food production willovercome the problems of malnutrition? [8]

4. Genetically Modified technologies and products are beneficial to mankind.

How far do you agree with this statement? 8m

5. “Green revolution on rice production does more damage than good.” Do youagree with the statement? Give reasons for your answer. [8]

6. “There are many people in the Economically Less Developed Countries who donot have enough to eat.” Do you agree with this statement? [8]

7. Discuss how technological advancements in agriculture affect LEDCs such asMexico and the Philippines. [8m]

HWA CHONG INSTITUTIONIntegrated Humanities 2009Geography ElectiveGeography of Food




8. Fig. 2 shows the vicious cycle of poverty experienced by subsistence farmers in

less developed countries.

With reference to Fig. 2, do you think that the Green Revolution can help farmers in

less developed countries to break out of the poverty cycle? Explain. [8]

Fig. 2Source: As ects of Human Geo ra h




ANSWERS

1. Natural disasters are the primary causes of food scarcity in LEDCs.

How far do you agree with this statement? Explain your answer. [8] Agree

Natural disasters such as flood, drought or typhoon when strikingLEDCs, may cause food shortage because

If the crop is totally destroyed, they would have to rely on imports orfood aid

Majority are subsistence farmers They would not be able to afford to buy food

Disagree: Other factors that may contribute to food scarcity in LEDCs The unequal distribution of land, In which the government takes control of most of the land Or wealthy farmers (as the case in Latin American coutries) Where most farmers do not own land for cultivation

They are pushed to areas which have poor soil & drainage, Thus affecting the quality and quantity of crops Corruption of government: No transparency when food aid arrives to relief the ones who are

starving No efficient transport or network to deliver the food aid When natural disasters occur in LEDCs, governments are less likely to

help the farmers No insurance bought so they can claim if the crops are damaged

L1 (0-3m)Unlimited population growth does contribute to food scarcity OR other factor

1m: elaboration of the statement only 2m: agrees OR disagrees that unlimited population growth contributes to

food scarcity, no examples

3m: agrees OR disagrees that unlimited population growth contributes tofood scarcity, with examples

L2 (4-6m)Shows both sides: unlimited population growth contributes to food scarcity AND other factors

4m: agrees AND disagrees (at least 3 factors) no support

5m: agrees AND disagrees (at least 3 factors) with some support

6m: agrees AND disagrees (at least 3 factors) with detailed support

.L3 (7-8m)

7m: agrees AND disagrees (at least 2 factors for each side, (at least 4factors) with detailed support

8m: agrees AND disagrees (at least 4 factors) with case studies

In LEDCs, when natural disaster strikes and crops are destroyed, apercentage of population would suffer from food scarcity as they might not beable to afford imported food. As many farmers are still engaged in

HWA CHONG INSTITUTIONIntegrated Humanities 2009Geography ElectiveGeography of Food




subsistence farming or small-scale commercial farming, when naturaldisasters strike their crops, most of them are unable to get assistance fromthe government to recover their losses. They are also unable to compete withthe large farm owners, who would use technology to boost their production,thus providing better quality food. The subsistence and small-scale farmerswould plunge into the poverty cycle.

However, food scarcity is also caused by the massive loss of manpower infarms yearly; thus affecting the amount of food supply. Farmers inBangladesh, for example, leave the rural areas to the cities, in search of better job prospects.

Unequal distribution of finances or land and corrupt governments alsocontribute to the food scarcity in LEDCs. The president of Zimbabwe did notmanage inflation and food aid well, leaving a great portion of its populationhungry. In Niger, investment was only focused on the cities, leaving the ruralarea neglected; thus without government subsidies and assistance, thefarmers were not able to cope with competition, civil unrest and destruction of

crops by natural disasters.




2.The exponential growth in population is the primary cause of food scarcity inLEDCs.

How far do you agree with this statement? Explain your answer. [8] Agree

Population had been growing rapidly in LEDCs Therefore, food supply has not been enough Farmers in LEDCs tend to be engaged in subsistence farming or small-

scale commercial farmers Thus they cannot compete with big corporations that plant cash crops Farmers tend to have a big family, thus when Food prices rise or a disaster kills their crops, they would experience

food scarcity

Disagree: Other factors that may contribute to food scarcity in LEDCs The unequal distribution of land, In which the government takes control of most of the land

Or wealthy farmers (as the case in Latin American coutries) Where most farmers do not own land for cultivation They are pushed to areas which have poor soil & drainage, Thus affecting the quality and quantity of crops Corruption of government: No transparency when food aid arrives to relief the ones who are

starving No efficient transport or network to deliver the food aid When natural disasters occur in LEDCs, governments are less likely to

help the farmers No insurance bought so they can claim if the crops are damaged

L1 (0-3m)Unlimited population growth does contribute to food scarcity OR other factor

1m: elaboration of the statement only

2m: agrees OR disagrees that unlimited population growth contributes tofood scarcity, no examples

3m: agrees OR disagrees that unlimited population growth contributes tofood scarcity, with examples

L2 (4-6m)Shows both sides: unlimited population growth contributes to food scarcity AND other factors

4m: agrees AND disagrees (at least 3 factors) no support

5m: agrees AND disagrees (at least 3 factors) with some support 6m: agrees AND disagrees (at least 3 factors) with detailed support

.L3 (7-8m)

7m: agrees AND disagrees (at least 2 factors for each side, (at least 4factors) with detailed support

8m: agrees AND disagrees (at least 4 factors) with case studies

In LEDCs, population has been growing rapidly in the past years, especially in




rural areas. As many farmers are still engaged in subsistence farming orsmall-scale commercial farming, when natural disasters strike their crops,most of them are unable to get assistance from the government to recovertheir losses. They are also unable to compete with the large farm owners,who would use technology to boost their production, thus providing betterquality food. The subsistence and small-scale farmers would plunge into the

poverty cycle.

However, food scarcity is also caused by the massive loss of manpower infarms yearly; thus affecting the amount of food supply. Farmers inBangladesh, for example, leave the rural areas to the cities, in search of better job prospects.

Unequal distribution of finances or land and corrupt governments alsocontribute to the food scarcity in LEDCs. The president of Zimbabwe did notmanage inflation and food aid well, leaving a great portion of its populationhungry. In Niger, investment was only focused on the cities, leaving the ruralarea neglected; thus without government subsidies and assistance, the

farmers were not able to cope with competition, civil unrest and destruction ofcrops by natural disasters.




3. Read the exert below and answer the following question.

Every year, more than 20 million children die of malnutrition,especially in the LEDCs. An international humanitarianorganisation, Médecins Sans Frontières, is urging policymakersto pay greater attention to recent developments in food

production such as application of biotechnology so as toovercome the problems of malnutrition.

To what extent do you agree that the recent developments in food production will

overcome the problems of malnutrition? [8]

Level 1: 0 to 3 marks1. Award 1 mark if answer consists ‘yes’ or ‘no’:

Yes, I agree that developments in food production will overcome theproblems of malnutrition.

2. Award 2 marks if answer consists ‘agree’ or ‘disagree to a large extent’ andidentify 1 development in food production:

The statement is true to a large extent. The increasing use of

farmland is an example of development in food production in therecent years.

3. Award 3 marks if answer consists ‘agree’ or ‘disagree to a large extent’ andidentifies 2 developments in food production:

The statement is true to a large extent. Two areas of developments infood production that have helped to overcome the problems ofmalnutrition are the increasing use of farmland and the application ofbiotechnology to farming technologies.

Level 2: 4 to 6 marks1. Award 4 marks if answer only identify and explain 1 development in food

production without example:

The problems of malnutrition are invariably linked to the rapidlygrowing world population. To feed the growing population, large tractsof forest have to be cleared to increase the acreage under arablelands. However, land is increasingly becoming scarce. Governmentstry to counter this issue by focusing on making greater use of arableland through the consolidation of fragmented farms. By increasingfarm sizes, higher yields can be produced because of economies ofscale. The other important development in food production is theapplication of technological advances to farming so as to significantlyincrease yields, especially in LEDCs.

2. Award 5 marks if answer only identify and explain 2 developments in food

production without examples: The problems of malnutrition are invariably linked to the rapidly

growing world population. To feed the growing population, large tractsof forest have to be cleared to increase the acreage under arablelands. However, land is increasingly becoming scarce. Governmentstry to counter this issue by focusing on making greater use of arableland through the consolidation of fragmented farms. By increasingfarm sizes, higher yields can be produced because of economies ofscale. The other important development in food production is the




application of technological advances to farming so as to significantlyincrease yields, especially in LEDCs.

The other important development in food production is the applicationof technological advances to farming so as to significantly increaseyields, especially in LEDCs. By the 1990s, food production, especiallyin the LEDCs was so rapid that there was sufficient food to feed every

person in the world based on the FAO criterion of 1kg of food per dayper person.

3. Award 6 marks if answer consists 2 developments in food production and 1 problem associated with developments in food production, but withoutrelevant examples:

The problems of malnutrition are invariably linked to the rapidlygrowing world population. To feed the growing population, large tractsof forest have to be cleared to increase the acreage under arablelands. However, land is increasingly becoming scarce. Governmentstry to counter this issue by focusing on making greater use of arableland through the consolidation of fragmented farms. By increasingfarm sizes, higher yields can be produced because of economies of

scale. The other important development in food production is theapplication of technological advances to farming so as to significantlyincrease yields, especially in LEDCs.

The other important development in food production is the applicationof technological advances to farming so as to significantly increaseyields, especially in LEDCs. By the 1990s, food production, especiallyin the LEDCs was so rapid that there was sufficient food to feed everyperson in the world based on the FAO criterion of 1kg of food per dayper person.

On the other hand, in MEDCs, the development in farming technologyand the strong buying power has resulted in another form of

malnutrition – obesity.

Level 3: 7 to 8 marks1. Award 7 marks if answer consists 2 developments in food production (and 2

relevant examples), and 1 problem associated with developments in food production:

The problems of malnutrition are invariably linked to the rapidlygrowing world population. To feed the growing population, large tractsof forest have to be cleared to increase the acreage under arablelands. However, land is increasingly becoming scarce. Governmentstry to counter this issue by focusing on making greater use of arable

land through the consolidation of fragmented farms. By increasingfarm sizes, higher yields can be produced because of economies ofscale. The other important development in food production is theapplication of technological advances to farming so as to significantlyincrease yields, especially in LEDCs. One example where landconsolidation is applied is India. In China, communes which wereonce owned by farmers are being returned to them. Holdingownership of the farms would serve as an incentive to farmers toincrease the yields of their land.




The other important development in food production is the applicationof technological advances to farming so as to significantly increaseyields, especially in LEDCs. By the 1990s, food production, especiallyin the LEDCs was so rapid that there was sufficient food to feed everyperson in the world based on the FAO criterion of 1kg of food per dayper person. High yield varieties seeds, like the IR8 variety of rice, the

greater use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides and the use ofmodern irrigation systems resulted in a rapid increase in world foodproduction.

On the other hand, in MEDCs, the development in farming technologyand the strong buying power has resulted in another form ofmalnutrition – obesity.

1. Award 8 marks if answer consists 2 developments in food production (and 2relevant examples), and 1 problem (and 1 relevant example) associatedwith developments in food production:

The problems of malnutrition are invariably linked to the rapidlygrowing world population. To feed the growing population, large tractsof forest have to be cleared to increase the acreage under arablelands. However, land is increasingly becoming scarce. Governmentstry to counter this issue by focusing on making greater use of arableland through the consolidation of fragmented farms. By increasingfarm sizes, higher yields can be produced because of economies ofscale. The other important development in food production is theapplication of technological advances to farming so as to significantlyincrease yields, especially in LEDCs. One example where landconsolidation is applied is India. In China, communes which wereonce owned by farmers are being returned to them. Holdingownership of the farms would serve as an incentive to farmers toincrease the yields of their land.

The other important development in food production is the applicationof technological advances to farming so as to significantly increaseyields, especially in LEDCs. By the 1990s, food production, especiallyin the LEDCs was so rapid that there was sufficient food to feed everyperson in the world based on the FAO criterion of 1kg of food per dayper person. High yield varieties seeds, like the IR8 variety of rice, thegreater use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides and the use ofmodern irrigation systems resulted in a rapid increase in world foodproduction.

On the other hand, in MEDCs, the development in farming technologyand the strong buying power has resulted in another form ofmalnutrition – obesity. For example, in MEDCs, it is estimated that

about 300 million people suffer from obesity due to easy access toabundant non-staple food which consist a high amount of oil and fat.Therefore, although developments in agriculture have enabled foodproduction increase, it has not eradicated the problems ofmalnutrition.




4. Genetically Modified technologies and products are beneficial to mankind.

How far do you agree with this statement? 8m

GM technologies are effective as can be seen from various sectors such asfood security, economies and environmental.

As an example, the technology introduced in rice planting could enhancetaste and quality in which plant varieties were developed through selectivebreeding.

in addition, GM crops introduced have reduced maturation time and arestress tolerant.

eg. The Miracle rice (IR8-enable 3 cropping a year instead of only 2)

this could help increase yields and is useful especially for famine strickennation like India and Africa.

E.g. Rice production doubled from 1967 to 1992 in India.

New seeds have resistance to disease, pests, and herbicides. IR8 was notresistant to pest and diseases, thus IRRI produced IR36, which is moreresistant to pests and diseases and;

the latest being developed is IR58 also known as ‘wonder rice’ which couldwithstand unfavourable climate like drought.

the technology also enhance in other ways where animals or poultry haveincreased resistance, productivity, hardiness, and feed efficiency.

In which also gives better yields of meat, eggs, and milk and continuoussupply of food.

the technology is useful as it improves animal health through variousdiagnostic methods.

through research, GM technology are seen as environmentally friendlywhere bioherbicides and bioinsecticides introduced are less harmful to theenvironment.

this could help in the conservation of soil, water, and energy in general

Bioprocessing for forestry products where production can be doubled is seenas a better way in reducing waste.

through high yield, worldwide concern on food security can be reduced. Thiswas evident in cereal production (rice, wheat and other grains) nearlydoubled from 1965 to 1995;

This has helped countries to be self-sufficient in providing for their own foodinstead of having import from other countries.

India for example, became an exporter of food grains.




As HYV were able to produce up to 4 times the yield of traditional varieties.

farmers could produce enough to feed their families and still have extra tosell; which means higher income to the farmers.

will close the gap between poor and rich nations.

In addition fewer lands have to be cleared as there will be enough foodsupplies to cater to the need.

Land consolidation also sees the optimum use on marginal lands

Which could have been idle due to mismanagement

However, there are many concerns related to genetically modifiedtechnologies such food safety, ethics, environmental issues, poverty andmany others.

With the gene alteration, there are unknown risks to mankind

Chemical fertilisers and pesticides used in great amount could bring moreharm to the environment and population in general.

Although GM is beneficial, it is entirely good as poor farmers will be caughtin poverty cycle as the seeds are expensive

In addition, usage of GM varieties causes monopoly by big companies

Where these are benefit-driven companies and would neglect the social wellbeing of the farmers or country in general.

Eg: Monsanto being the monopoly has shown irresponsible actions to the

farmers, consumers, general public and environmentLevel 1 (0-3 marks)

Answer shows only advantages or disadvantages (one-sided view)1m- Describes on GM technologies with no specific explanation.2m- Agrees or disagrees with at least two points3m- Agrees or disagrees with at least three points

Example:

GM technologies are effective as can be seen from various sectors such as

food security, economies and environmental. As an example, the technologyintroduced in rice planting could enhance taste and quality in which plantvarieties were developed through selective breeding.

Level 2 (4-6marks)

Answer shows both sides of explanation with other points involved

4m- Agrees and disagrees and covers at least three points with relevantexplanation and examples




5m- Agrees and disagrees and covers at least four points with relevantexplanation and examples

Example:

This could help increase yields and is useful especially for famine strickennation like India and Africa. E.g. Rice production doubled from 1967 to 1992 inIndia. New seeds have resistance to disease, pests, and herbicides. However,chemical fertilisers and pesticides used in great amount could bring more harmto the environment and population in general.

Level 3 (7-8marks)

Answer shows both sides of explanation

Points are clear with detailed descriptions on the evidences suggested areexplained.

7m- Agrees and disagrees and covers at least five points with relevant

explanation and specific examples cited on GM8m- Agrees and disagrees and covers at least six points with relevantexplanation and case studies. Addresses the extent of agreement withsupporting details.

Example:

Through high yield, worldwide concern on food security can be reduced. Thiswas evident in cereal production (rice, wheat and other grains) nearly doubledfrom 1965 to 1995; this has helped countries to be self-sufficient in providing fortheir own food instead of having import from other countries. India for example,became an exporter of food grain as HYV were able to produce up to 4 timesthe yield of traditional varieties.




5. “Green revolution on rice production does more damage than good.” Do youagree with the statement? Give reasons for your answer.[8]

Good

HYV seeds are more tolerant of a less favorable climaticcondition

More areas that have less favorable climate can be used togrow rice

Which leads to an increase in food production

For example, adoption of HYV rice seeds increased worldproduction of rice from 250mil tonnes in1963 to over500mil tonnes in 1993.

Improves employment level

The need for fertilizers and research and developmentcreates new industries

Leads to creation of new jobs.

HYV seeds require a shorter growing season

Therefore, leading to the possibility of an extra rice cropper year.

Improves farmer’s standard of living

Due to increase in rice yield, more surpluses can be soldleading to increase in income

For example farmers in Punjab India’s standard of livingincreased due to green revolution.

In order to benefit from irrigation and drainage works,consolidation of fragmented farms must be present

When farms are larger, farmers are able to reap thebenefits of large scale production.

Farmers with more than one hectare of land become

wealthier, improving standard of living. Damage

Insufficient storage space of rice

Due to inadequate facilities to store the grains.

Results in wastage and spoilage of rice

Lack of variety

Planting of one or two types of seeds means an outbreakof disease may destroy all the crops of farmers using thesame variety.

For example, when a disease attacked an area plantedwith HYV seeds in central Luzon, the Philippines in 1971,

about 35% of the rice crop was destroyed Abundant growth of weeds

Due to increased use of fertilizers, which results in morehelp for weeding needed.

Increased cost of production

HYV seeds require heavy application of fertilizers andpesticides

Irrigation is also expensive which adds on to the cost




Pollution of water supplies

Many areas in India depend on groundwater

Inadequate treatment of fertilizers and pesticides seepsinto the soil or are washed by heavy rain, polluting thewater.

For example, India and the Philippines

Dependence on imported seeds, fertilizers, pesticides andmachinery

Imported inputs increase cost.

Rural Unemployment

Mechanization of farm may lead to the unemployment offarmers

Leads to social problems related to unemployment.

Level 1 (0-3marks)

Yes it does more damage OR No it does more good

Answers are too general, lack specific examples Answers are one sided, only shows damage OR good

0m- no evidence provided1m- at least one evidence provided2m- at least two evidences with explanation.3m- at least two evidences with explanation and specific examples.

Example:

No, it does more good than damage because HYV seeds are moretolerant of a less favorable climatic condition More areas that haveless favorable climate can be used to grow rice, thus this can

increase rice yields Yes, it does more damage, as there may be a lack of variety and the

planting of one or two types of seeds means an outbreak of diseasewhich may destroy all the crops of farmers using the same variety.

Level 2 (4-6marks)

Evaluates good and damage with specific examples

4m- at least three evidences with explanation and specific examples5m- at least four evidences with explanations and specific examples.

6m- at least four evidences with explanations and specific examples

Example:

It does more good than damages to a certain extent. . HYV seedsare more tolerant of a less favorable climatic condition and moreareas that have less favorable climate can be used to grow rice. Italso improves employment level. The need for fertilizers andresearch and development creates new industries thus leading tothe creation of new jobs. However is may not be advisable as it




lacks variety. The planting of one or two types of seeds means anoutbreak of disease may destroy all the crops of farmers using thesame variety. It may also lead to abundant growth of weeds. Thiscould be the result of an increase use of fertilizers, which results inmore help for weeding needed.

Level 3 (7-8marks)

Reaches a conclusion

Clear explanation with evidence of theory and what it lacks.

7m- at least five evidences with explanation and specific examples8m- answer covers all aspects of evidences, supported by relevant

explanation.

Example:

It does more damages to a certain extent. . HYV seeds are moretolerant of a less favorable climatic condition and more areas thathave less favorable climate can be used to grow rice. It alsoimproves employment level. The need for fertilizers and researchand development creates new industries thus leading to the creationof new jobs. However it may not be advisable as it lacks variety. The planting of one or two types of seeds means an outbreak of diseasemay destroy all the crops of farmers using the same variety. Forexample, when a disease attacked an area planted with HYV seedsin central Luzon, the Philippines in 1971, about 35% of the rice cropwas destroyed. It may also lead to abundant growth of weeds. Thiscould be the result of an increase use of fertilizers, which results in

more help for weeding needed. Therefore, by evaluating the pointsabove, green revolution does more good than damage.




6. “There are many people in the Economically Less Developed Countries who donot have enough to eat.” Do you agree with this statement? [8]

- Rate of population growth is exponential

- Mostly engaged in primary industries such as agriculture, fishery- farming for subsistence level

- rate of population growth in geometric progression,- for example, 1 then 2 then 3-4-5-6-7-8

- rate of food production in arithmetric progression

- for example, 2-4-8-16-32-64- rate of food production cannot keep pace with the rate of population growth

- results in shortage of food.

Agree:Social: cultural and religious beliefs

Example : Evident in Brazil/the Philippines and India respectively

Factor 2:

- Environmental :Examples :

-Nigeria, a sub Saharan terrain, relatively low rainfall, poor soil conditions

- Nepal, the Himalayan Mountains, mainly nomadic herding, poor soil

condition, harsh climate, rugged terrain, poor accessibility

Factor 3 :- Economic : low income, low GDP

- too many people, lack of educational opportunities, land scarcity for

agriculture, agriculture for subsistence purposes

Example :- India : land fragmentation due to cultural practices of inheritance of land

when one passes away, the size of the land becomes too small eventually foragriculture to be practiced.

Factor 4 :

- Political : Policies made by Government- Example : Ivory Coast

- took loans from the West to establish two sugar complexes.

- to meet the national need which was subverted by European countries

- decision to produce sugar from sugar beets rather than from sugar cane,which is more economical

- The European sugar, cheaper (though not better) was then dumped in theIvorian market.

- Within a few years, the two complexes had to shut down.- Crisis took place :

- first : the debt remained and at high interest rates,- second : farmers lost revenues;

- third : the internal market became depressed;- fourth, people began to develop a taste for imported or dumped sugar as

against the products of local factories; and

- Fifth :poverty was intensified due to general loss of revenue to local cane

producers and the government.




Disagree

Factor 1 : Diversification

- Example : West Malaysia: commercial agriculture with tourism

Factor 2 : Intensification- Example : The Philippines, Luzon Region for wet rice cultivation

Factor 3 : Commercialization- Example : The Ganges Valley: intensive subsistence agriculture, Through

Green Revolution

Factor 4 : Extensification

- Example : The Nigerian Wheat Trap

- Import of foreign wheat was costly

- replaced imported wheat with home grown wheat- technology is involved and cost money

- investment in irrigation- high cost of foreign exchange

- building of floor mills and bakeries

- affordability to invest in 1970s due to oil boom

- 1980s : oil prices fall and devaluation of Nigerian currency- imports of wheat banned to save foreign currency

Factor 5 : By means of Technology- increasing arable land through terracing, draining swamps and coastal areas

- Vietnam / X’ian, Sichua, China : hills are terraced to increase surface area forcultivation and to retain water and educe surface runoff

Case Studies:Case Study A : Green Revolution, India

- I n the 1960s, there was concern from the Indian government that the country

would not be able to grow enough food to support the ever increasing

population,

- so they put into place what was called the 'Green Revolution'.-The idea of the 'Green Revolution' was to use technology to increase food

output

- as a result, over the last 50 years a series of changes have taken place infarming in India with the introduction of more 'Western-type' farming

techniques.

- Brought changes in farming in India:

1. LAND REFORM The problem: E fficient farming was difficult in India due to the many

small farms (75% less than 3ha),

which had become a product of the 'Laws of Divided Inheritance' (with

farms being split between the sons of the farmer on his death)

aimed to increase farm size, setting a limit on the amount of land the

more wealthy could own and redistributing surplus land to those

without.

2. HIGH YIELDING VARIETIES




ex isting rice varieties, grew rapidly but very tall so fell over easily and

had to be grown quite far apart.

money provided by MEDCs such as the UK, USA etc. enabled new high

yielding varieties of rice to be developed, IR8.

This was shorter and stronger; could be planted much closer together,

enabling more crop per area;

had a shorter growing season and produced almost 3-4 times as muchyield per hectare.

3. MECHANISATION

rice growing is labour intensive, with many jobs to be done requiringgreat human input

technology such as tractors and mechanised ploughs were introduced

from MEDCs, replacing water buffalo and increasing efficiency, reducingthe required human input.

4. Other changes bought about by the Green Revolution:

Irrigation schemes, including the introduction of electric / diesel pumpsto help ensure a more steady and reliable source of water for the new

IR8 HYVs and large scale projects such as the Narmada River Project (aseries of dams built to help provide water for irrigation of the land)

As the introduction of tractors and other 'Western' style technology was

not as successful as first hoped, Alternative, 'Appropriate Technology'

has been introduced which is suited to the local people's wealth, skillsand knowledge, for example low cost irrigation schemes etc.

- As a result, with the new Hybrid seeds, technology etc. saw an increase of

300% in crop yields;- The overall increase in food production helped to feed the ever increasing

population with India becoming largely self-sufficient

- Increased output overall meant that some subsistence farmers had a surplus

which they were also able to sell, helping to raise living standards further.

Money raised in this was was also reinvested into the farm, helping with thecosts of machinery etc. or to buy more land

Case Study 2 : White Revolution : Operation Flood, India

- was the name of a rural development programme started by India's National

Dairy Development Board (NDDB) in 1970.- one of the largest programme, to create a nationwide milk grid.

- resulted into making India, a largest producer of milk and milk products,

- also helped to resolve malpractices by the milk traders and merchants.- This revolution followed the green revolution and helped in alleviating

poverty and famine levels from dangerous proportions in India during the era.

- Amul (Anand Milk Union Limited) has helped dairy farmers direct their owndevelopment, placing control of the resources they create in their own hands.

- A National Milk Grid links milk producers throughout India with consumers inover 700 towns and cities, reducing seasonal and regional price variations while

ensuring that the producer gets a major share of the consumers' rupee.

- The bedrock of Operation Flood has been village milk producers' cooperatives,which procure milk and provide inputs and services,- making modern management and technology available to members.

- dairying was seen as an instrument of development, generating employment

and regular incomes for millions of rural people.




3. Nigeria Wheat Trap

- Example : The Nigerian Wheat Trap

- Import of foreign wheat was costly- replaced imported wheat with home grown wheat

- technology is involved and cost money- investment in irrigation

- high cost of foreign exchange- building of floor mills and bakeries- affordability to invest in 1970s due to oil boom

- 1980s : oil prices fall and devaluation of Nigerian currency

- imports of wheat banned to save foreign currency

- Government’s response was to encouraged an expansion of home productionby increasing ninefold the price paid to the farmers between 1985-1990.

- This incentive caused wheat production to increase from 15 000 tonnes in

1983 to 140 000 tonnes in 1988-1989

L1 (1-3m)

- Growth of population means insufficient food for the population or otherfactor.1m : Elaboration of the statement only

2m : Agrees or disagrees that population growth puts a constraint on food

resources with no examples

3m : Agree or disagrees that population growth puts a constraint on foodresources with examples

Example :

The rate of population growth is exponential in LEDC. Most of the people areengaged in primary industries such as agriculture, fishery and farming for own

consumption. As these are labour intensive, most of them need help in their

farms and yet struggle with income to hire workers. Thus, they tend to havebigger families for labour. The rate of population growth in is in geometric

progression while the rate of food production in arithmetric progression. As

such, the rate of food production cannot keep pace with the rate of population

growth, this results in shortage of food.

L2 (4-6m)Shows both views : Growth in population means a constrain on food resources butother factors such as- technology through :

- diversification,- intensification

- commercialization- extensification- food aid4m : agrees and disagrees ( at least 2 factors) with no support5m : agrees and disagrees (at least 2 factors) with some support6m : agrees and disagrees (at least 2 factors) with detailed support

Example :




In most ELDC, due to their cultural and religious beliefs, they tend to have

bigger families as their religion do not encourage birth control and abortion.

This is evident in the Philippines and Brazil.

Besides, their physical environment does not allow good harvests such asrugged terrain, poor soil drainage, lack of water etc. Nigeria, a sub Saharan

terrain, relatively low rainfall, poor soil conditions while Nepal, the HimalayanMountains, mainly nomadic herding, poor soil condition, harsh climate, ruggedterrain, poor accessibility

These factors cause the people in ELDC not to have enough to eat.

On the other hand, this is not totally true.

Over the past 50 years, the farmers in the ELDC embarked on diversification,intensification, commercialization and extensification that their produce is able tosupport their growing population.

In the Luzon region, the Philippines, terracing is practised for the intensive wet

rice cultivation where this increases arable land.

In the past, India was unable to feed its own population. With the aid from the

developed countries, they embarked on the Green Revolution which equippedthem with enough produce for themselves and also for export. This is found in

the Ganges Valley.

Another reason for the LEDC being able to feed its population is the cultivation

of wheat in Nigeria. Due to colonialism, the foreign wheat cultivation is

replaced with that of the local grain. The locals also developed a taste for

bread. Import of foreign wheat was costly in addition with the involvement intechnology. Another expensive investment is irrigation. There is a high cost offoreign exchange for building of floor mills and bakeries. There was

affordability to invest in 1970s due to oil boom. However, in the 1980s, oil

prices fall and devaluation of Nigerian currency and imports of wheat banned to

save foreign currency. Rewards were given to farmers who cultivate local

grains of wheat. Government’s response was to encouraged an expansion of

home production by increasing ninefold the price paid to the farmers between1985-1990. This incentive caused wheat production to increase from 15 000

tonnes in 1983 to 140 000 tonnes in 1988-1989

L3 (7-8m)

7m : agrees and disagrees (at least 3 factors for each side) with case studies8m : agrees and disagrees (at least 4 factors for each side) with case studies

Level 3: 7-8m7m: Agree and disagree with >2 factors to show ELDC has sufficiency and >2reasons toshow lack with excellent examples from readings and information given.8m: Agree and disagree with >3 reasons to show ELDC has sufficiency and >3reasons to show lack with excellent examples from readings and information given.Weighted and give an example with elaboration.




Example : In addition to LORMS answers for Level 2, to include other factors.………… As most of them are engaged in the primary industry, their income is

meagre , contributing to low GDP. Too many people, lack of educational

opportunities, land scarcity for agriculture, agriculture for subsistencepurposes. In India, they have a big growing population coupled with social

practices such as land inheritance. Thus, land fragmentation becomes evident,resulting in the reduction of the size of the land which becomes too small

eventually for agriculture to be practiced. This affects the amount of foodproduction.

Also, the policies made by the Government in ELCD play a critical role. An

example would be that in Ivory Coast. The country took loans from the Westto establish two sugar complexes to meet the national need which was

subverted by European countries. The Government’s decision was to producesugar from sugar beets rather than from sugar cane, which was then more

economical

The European sugar, cheaper (though not better) was then dumped in the

Ivorian market. Within a few years, the two complexes had to shut down.Crisis took place. Firstly, the debt remained and at high interest rates.

Secondly, farmers lost revenues while thirdly, the internal market becamedepressed and finally, the people began to develop a taste for imported or

dumped sugar as against the products of local factories; and poverty was

intensified due to general loss of revenue to local cane producers and the

government. However, Government’s response was to encouraged anexpansion of using local products by introducing tax reduction and incentives to

the farmers between 1985-1990. This incentive caused the local sugar

production to increase.

however, The ELDC embraced technology to enhance their crop production.They embarked on the Green revolution.

I n the 1960s, there was concern from the Indian government that the country

would not be able to grow enough food to support the ever increasingpopulation, they put into place what was called the 'Green Revolution'.

The idea of the 'Green Revolution' was to use technology to increase food

output. As a result, over the last 50 years a series of changes have takenplace in farming in India with the introduction of more 'Western-type' farming

techniques. These brought changes in farming in India, particularly in the land

reformation, high yielding varieties and mechanisation...




7. Discuss how technological advancements in agriculture affect LEDCs such as Mexico and

the Philippines. [8m]

Likely Content

Technological advancement includes inputs such as fertilizers, pesticides and

irrigation

It has increased yields.

Take for instance the example of the Philippineso In 1962, the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) was established in

Manila

o Helped farmers in developing countries to increase rice yields through the

adoption of HYVs of seeds

o Scientists bred rice seeds to produce varieties with improved characteristics

o Breakthrough came in 1965 with the development of miracle rice called IR8

o These rice grains ripen about 100 days with shorter growing period

o Not only that, the rice yields were ten tonnes per hectare

o The stems of the rice plants are thick and could withstand strong winds and

support large quantity of grains

o However, HYVs require certain conditions for growth

A lot of fertilizers need to be applied

Pesticides must be used because some of these HYVs are not resistant

to pests

To cultivate successfully, HYVs rely on an adequate supply of water

regularly. There is a need for perennial irrigation

Machines may be used and that would speed up the process and further

increase productivity

o With more yields, there will be more export and this means more foreign

exchange for Philippines. This will boost the economy.

o With higher income there is better standard of living

o But there are problems too

Higher cost of production because the fertilizers, pesticides, HYV seedsare expensive

Therefore widens income gap. Because only the rich farmers can

afford the seeds, have the money to buy fertilizers, pesticides etc

Use of fertilizers also pollute the environment

With mechanization of farm activities there is a loss of work for some

farmhands and this can further widen income gap

Level 1: 1-3m

1m: General discussion on the benefits of technological advancement on LEDCs

without specific case studies or supporting details

2m: Discusses only 2 benefits with supporting details. NO specific case study3m: Discusses only 3 benefits with supporting details with NO specific case study

Example: Technological advancement in agriculture has improved yields for LEDCs

such as the Philippines. This includes inputs such as High Yielding Variety (HYVs)

seeds, fertilizers, pesticides and the use of machines. There are many benefits with

regard to technological advancement. One benefit is to see the increase of yields for

crops such as rice. In some countries, rice yields is about ten tons per hectare.

Another benefit is that HYVs are also able to withstand strong winds and so improved




yields as a result. With more yields, the LEDCs can obtain foreign exchange which

will benefit the country’s economy in terms of trade.

Level 2: 4-6m4m: Discusses 1 benefit and 1 problem with supporting details related to 1 case study

5m: Discusses 2 benefits and 2 problems with supporting details related to 1 case

study

6m: Discusses 3 benefits and 3 problems associated with 1 case study


such as the Philippines. This includes inputs such as High Yielding Variety (HYVs)

seeds, fertilizers, pesticides and the use of machines. There are many benefits with


crops such as rice. In the Philippines, for example, rice yields about ten tons per

hectare with the use of HYV IR8 grain. This was also possible because the IR8 rice

grain also takes a shorter growing period. This will increase the number of cropping per year. Another benefit is that HYVs are also able to withstand strong winds and so

improved yields as a result. With more yields, the Philippines can obtain foreign

exchange which will benefit the country’s economy in terms of trade.

Technological advancement also brings about problems. The seeds of HYVs are

expensive and to upkeep the farm there is high capital costs. Money is needed to buy

fertilizers and pesticides. To poorer farmers in the Philippines, this will only add to

their burden. As a result widens the income gap between the rich farmers and the

poor farmers. A widen income gap is not good for the Philippines because over time,

this income disparity can become a political issue.

Level 3: 7-8m

7m: Discusses 3 benefits and 3 problems associated with 1 case study. Also the extent

to which these benefits can be enhanced or problems minimized

8m: Discusses 3 benefits and 3 problems associated with 1 case study. Also discusses

the extent to which these benefits can be enhanced or problems minimized. Pin points

ONE factor that is vital to reducing impact and enhances the benefit of technological

advancement in LEDcs’ agriculture development.


such as the Philippines. This includes inputs such as High Yielding Variety (HYVs) seeds, fertilizers, pesticides and the use of machines. There are many benefits with


crops such as rice. In the Philippines, for example, rice yields about ten tons per

hectare with the use of HYV IR8 grain. This was also possible because the IR8 rice

grain also takes a shorter growing period. This will increase the number of cropping

per year. Another benefit is that HYVs are also able to withstand strong winds and

so improved yields as a result. With more yields, the Philippines can obtain foreign

exchange which will benefit the country’s economy in terms of trade.




Technological advancement also brings about problems. The seeds of HYVs are

expensive and to upkeep the farm there is high capital costs. Money is needed to buy

fertilizers and pesticides. To poorer farmers in the Philippines, this will only add to

their burden. As a result widens the income gap between the rich farmers and the

poor farmers. A widen income gap is not good for the Philippines because over time,

this income disparity can become a political issue.

Having weighed the pros and cons of technological advancement in agriculture in

LEDCs, it is clear that the benefits outweigh the problems. Thus it is up to the

government to manage the tool to improving agriculture growth in a country. With

better monitoring systems and encouraging cooperatives to form within the farming

community, the problems may be solved as a community. As such minimize the impact

of the problems technological advances have on the farming community.




8.Fig. 2 shows the vicious cycle of poverty experienced by subsistence farmers in less

developed countries.

With reference to Fig. 2, do you think that the Green Revolution can help farmers in

less developed countries to break out of the poverty cycle? Explain.[8]

Level 1 (0 – 3m)

One sided answer – argues the use of technology can help farmers break out of the poverty cycle

o One reason – 1mo Two to three reasons – 2 to 3m

The use of high yielding varieties, together with chemical fertilizers and irrigationhelp to increase farm yields. In India, wheat production increased from 10 million tonnesin 1968 to 73 million tonnes in 2006. There is now less reliance on the unpredictable

environmental factors for the success of their crops, enable farmers to feedthemselves and their families. As a result of Green Revolution, the percentage of themalnourished people in India fell from 39% in 1970 to 20% in 2001. The steady incomeallows them to pay rent to their landowners and extra crops can be sold for cash. Thisextra income can help them further improve their farming practices such as buyingmachinery, fertilizers, and pesticides or to install irrigation facilities.

Fig. 2Source: As ects of Human Geo ra h




Level 2 (4 – 6m)

Two sided answers – argues GR can help farmers and also otherwiseo 4m – at least 3 reasons (not well-elaborated)o 5m – at least 3 reasons (well-elaborated)o 6m – at least 4 reasons (well-elaborated)

The use of high yielding varieties, together with chemical fertilizers and irrigationhelp to increase farm yields. In India, wheat production increased from 10 million tonnesin 1968 to 73 million tonnes in 2006. There is now less reliance on the unpredictableenvironmental factors for the success of their crops, enable farmers to feedthemselves and their families. As a result of Green Revolution, the percentage of themalnourished people in India fell from 39% in 1970 to 20% in 2001. The steady incomeallows them to pay rent to their landowners and extra crops can be sold for cash. Thisextra income can help them further improve their farming practices such as buyingmachinery, fertilizers, and pesticides or to install irrigation facilities.

However, not all farmers can benefit from these technological advances as theymay not have the capital to invest in the high yielding seeds and other inputs such as

chemical fertilizers and irrigation. Therefore, only the richer farmers benefit from usingtechnology in farming. As the farmers do not have much education, they may not knowhow to operate the machinery effectively or use the appropriate chemicals correctly. Thiscan lead to over-application of fertilizers and over-irrigation, causing environmentaldegradation like fresh and groundwater pollution. This in turn will destroy the soil nutrientsin the farm and leading to low yields. In India, 4 million hectares of soils have becomeinfertile as a result of a build-up of salt due to irrigation.

Level 3 (7 – 8m)

Two sided answers – argues GR can help farmers and also otherwiseo L2/6m + specific examples/references from case studies

o One to two examples/references – 7mo Three to four examples/references – 8m

To a large extent, technological advances in food production can help farmersbreak out of the poverty cycle.

The use of high yielding varieties, together with chemical fertilizers and irrigationhelp to increase farm yields. In India, wheat production increased from 10 million tonnesin 1968 to 73 million tonnes in 2006. There is now less reliance on the unpredictableenvironmental factors for the success of their crops, enable farmers to feedthemselves and their families. As a result of Green Revolution, the percentage of themalnourished people in India fell from 39% in 1970 to 20% in 2001. The steady income

allows them to pay rent to their landowners and extra crops can be sold for cash. Thisextra income can help them further improve their farming practices such as buyingmachinery, fertilizers, and pesticides or to install irrigation facilities.

Land consolidation can also take place with small fragmented farms combinedtogether to form a larger farms so as to reap economies of scale in the farming processes.This implies that the issue of land ownership is resolved and the farmers no longer have tobe at the mercies of their landlords.



However, not all farmers can benefit from these technological advances as theymay not have the capital to invest in the high yielding seeds and other inputs such aschemical fertilizers and irrigation. Therefore, only the richer farmers benefit from usingtechnology in farming. As the farmers do not have much education, they may not knowhow to operate the machinery effectively or use the appropriate chemicals correctly. Thiscan lead to over-application of fertilizers and over-irrigation, causing environmentaldegradation like fresh and groundwater pollution. This in turn will destroy the soil nutrientsin the farm and leading to low yields. In India, 4 million hectares of soils have becomeinfertile as a result of a build-up of salt due to irrigation.

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