CAIE A Level Biology 9700 · Classification, biodiversity and conservation
The Azure-winged Magpie (Cyanopica cooki) is a bird species endemic to the forests of the island of Atlantica. Its population has declined sharply over the past 50 years. Two major factors are deforestation for agriculture (which has removed 70% of its original forest habitat) and hunting by humans for its distinctive blue feathers. Explain how habitat loss and hunting by humans have combined to drive this species toward extinction.
5 marks, so the mark scheme is looking for about 5 separate creditworthy points. Making the same point twice in different words earns it once.
Explain means: Give the reasons or the mechanism: why or how something happens. Link each point to the next with because, so or which means. A list of facts with no links usually loses the reasoning marks.
Written by Markquill to follow the Cambridge International syllabus. Markquill is independent and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Cambridge International.