Weakness and Remedies

The weaknesses that were noted on the scripts of the candidates are specified below.

1. Inaccuracy in the calculation of angles and construction of pie charts: some of the candidates failed to properly calculate the amount of cocoa production in the four countries between 2002 and 2004.  Similarly, some of the candidates failed to properly calculate the angles for the pie chart and consequently were unable to produce accurate pie charts.
2. Weakness in the illustration of the diagrams on rift valley:  In question 5, the candidates were expected to use diagrams to describe the characteristics and mode of formation of rift valley and horst.  Similarly, the diagrams used to describe the characteristics and mode of formation of stack and sand bar were poorly drawn by some candidates
3. Scanty explanation of points:  Some candidates merely listed points that ought to have been explained.  This shows that such candidates were not adequately prepared for the examination.
4. Poor expression by some candidates: some of the candidates wrote down their answers in poor English making it difficult for the examiners to properly decode the lines of thought of the candidates. This led to poor performances on the part of such candidates.

SUGGESTED REMEDIES TO OVERCOME CANDIDATES’ WEAKNESSES

The underlisted suggestions are to be noted in order to overcome the weaknesses discovered in the scripts of the candidates.

1. Practice work on calculations and construction of pie charts:  The candidates are  encouraged to practice with exercises on statistical calculations and construction of charts.  This will make them master the act and grant them confidence in the construction of graphs and pie charts in examinations.
2. Practice of diagrammatic illustrations; As the candidates go through their notes and textbook for mastery of concepts and illustrations of processes of formations, they should endeavor to practice all the drawings that are used as illustrations to those processes studied.  This will facilitate their competence during examinations.
3.  Adequate explanation of points: If questions require explanations, such must be made in order for the candidates to secure the maximum possible mark.  Scanty explanation of points under such circumstance will lead to loss of precious marks.
4.  Mastery of English as the language of communication:  English language which is the language of communication could be mastered through reading of good textbooks, novels, journals, newspapers and through language drills in debates and drama.  This will make the candidates to be adequately equipped to answer any question in any topic if they adequately read such topics ahead of the examination.