INSTRUCTIONS AND INFORMATION

1. This task is to be administered and recorded in the first term.
2. The task is allocated a time frame of 8 weeks in term one.
3. Non-compliance of submissions according to the time frames set CAN result in zero mark for the candidate.
4. The REASERCH TASK in grade 12 is part of the formal assessment programme in 2022
5. All dates stated in Annexure A are stipulated for completion of the step.
6. Candidates must adhere to the due dates stipulated in Annexure A.
7. Candidates must always refer to the Research Rubric to gain more insight on the expectations for each step.

Geographic question/inquiry
To complete this research, we must be willing and have an ability to ask and answer questions about geospatial phenomena.


Questions which geographers ask from a geographic perspective.

• What causes the natural event? (include a diagram)
• Where does it occur? (include a map)
• How does the natural event impact the environment?
• How does the natural event impact humans? social, political, economical?
• How can we prepare, prevent, protect against the natural event?
• How can communities' benefit from the natural event? Is this natural event a concern in my area?

Topics for Grade 12 Research
Choose any ONE of the following topics to do research on
Climate and weather

• An analysis of weather patterns and data over a longer period in your area.
• Strategies that help prepare for and manage natural weather disasters in the Free State.
• Local climates in your area and its impact on settlements and farming activities
• Pay close attention to the following aspects (Social, Economic, Environmental)
• Effects of Midlatitude/ Tropical cyclones on human activities,
• How cyclones affect the environment and human lives?

Geomorphology

• A study of processes and factors influencing flow patterns in local streams/rivers.
• A study on the human impact on the flow patterns of a river in your area.
• Catchment river management in the Free State.

1. STEP ONE
   Formulating a hypothesis.
   
   • Choose a specific area where the geographical statement can be made.
   • The statement must have the following questions:
     
     • Where is it?
     • What is it?
     • How it ought to be?
     • Human Impacts?
   • Example: what?
     where?
     The pollution along the Vaal River is due to the increase in contaminants created by the human settlements.
2. STEP TWO
   Mapping
   • Provide a map of the area in question.
   • During this stage create a buffer zone around the area of study
   • The map must have a key and be drawn to scale.
   • It should be a most recent map. 
   • Maps can be downloaded from websites
3. STEP THREE
   Background information about an area of study.
   
   • Identify on the map where in South Africa the study area is located. (This can be indicated on the map)
   • A description of the study area in terms of its exact position (degrees, minutes and seconds)
   • Provide relevant information about the area, for example population of the area or climate of the area.
   • Provide media (newspaper internet/magazine) sources
4. STEP FOUR
   Methods of data collection
   
   1. PRIMARY DATA SOURCES
      The use of questionnaires
      • Interviews
      • Observations
      • Field trips
   2. SECONDARY DATA SOURCES
      
      • Newspaper articles
      • Government department statistics
      • Books
      • Internet
        NB: due to Covid 19 restrictions, learners can only use Secondary data sources to limit contact. But the information used cannot be cut and pasto.
5. STEP FIVE
   Analysis and synthesis of data (Data Representation)
   • Collected data should now be used to formulate a discussion around the existing geographical problem.
   • Represent information graphically (creatively) where necessary, for example graphs, sketches, photographs etc.
   • Graphic information must be analysed during this stage. 
6. STEP SIX
   Recommendations and possible solutions
   
   • Make recommendations to solve the geographical problem in question
   • Present original and realistic opinions as far possible. 
7. STEP SEVEN
   Conclusion - ACCEPT OR REJECT the hypothesis.
   Make a decision to either ACCEPT or REJECT the hypothesis. Provide reasons for either ACCEPTING or REJECTING the hypothesis,
8. STEP EIGHT
   A comprehensive bibliography should be included. (You can use a Harvard referencing system)
   • List web sites in full.
   • Annexures of questionnaires and interviews conducted should be included.

GEOGRAPHY RESEARCH TASK
ANNEXURE A

Geographic question/inquiry
To complete this research, we must be willing and have an ability to ask and answer