AQA Geography Paper 3 Pre Release (2025)

Geography Paper 3
Pre-Release 2025

By Jonathan Phoenix-Archer

Your Pre Release is on a proposed project to build a tidal gateway across Morecambe Bay and Duddon Estuary. This project would allow people to drive over two large bridges while the bridges also generate electricity from the tidal movement of the sea.

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Your Pre-Release is made up of 6 pages and these are referred to in your exam as follows:

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Fig 1: Energy in the UK

Fig 2: Towards a renewable energy future

Fig 3: Morecambe Tidal Gateway Project

Match

Match the following key words with their definitions

• Tidal barrage

• Renewable energy

• Energy security

• Multi-use development

• Carbon footprint

A structure that uses the rise and fall of tides to generate electricity

Energy derived from natural processes that are continuously replenished

The association between the availability of energy and the needs of the economy

Development that serves multiple purposes, such as residential and commercial

The total amount of greenhouse gases produced directly and indirectly by an individual or organization

• A structure that uses the rise and fall of tides to generate electricity

• Energy derived from natural processes that are continuously replenished

• The association between the availability of energy and the needs of the economy

• Development that serves multiple purposes, such as residential and commercial

• The total amount of greenhouse gases produced directly and indirectly by an individual or organization

Match

Match the following key words with their definitions

• Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)

• Biodiversity

• Habitat

• Sustainability

• Flood protection

A designated area for the protection of wildlife and habitats.

The variety of life in the world or in a particular habitat.

The natural home or environment of an animal, plant, or other organism.

The ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level.

Measures taken to prevent flooding and protect land.

• A designated area for the protection of wildlife and habitats.

• The variety of life in the world or in a particular habitat.

• The natural home or environment of an animal, plant, or other organism.

• The ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level.

• Measures taken to prevent flooding and protect land.

Multiple Choice

If we have more supply than demand of electricity then...

• We have a surplus that we can sell

• We have a deficit and need to import energy

• We have energy insecurity so we might have future blackouts

Multiple Select

If we have less supply than demand of electricity then... (tick 2)

• We have a surplus that we can sell

• We have a deficit and need to import energy

• We have energy insecurity so we might have future blackouts

For each Figure, you will have the Figure of two pages to look through and then some multiple choice questions and some short explain questions (followed by a model answer response).
Remember, you will have a copy of the Pre-Release in the exam so use the images on here or your physical copy to help you with this.

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Fig 1: Energy in the UK

Multiple Choice

What trend is shown in the UK's energy imports from 2004 to 2010?

• They decreased

• They stayed the same

• They increased

• They fluctuated

Multiple Choice

Which energy source made up the largest share of the UK’s energy mix in 2020?

• Coal

• Renewables

• Gas

• Nuclear

Multiple Choice

What is a key risk of the UK importing energy?

• Better technology

• High demand

• Reliance on other countries

• 'Cheaper electricity

Multiple Choice

What does the term 'energy security' mean?

• Cheap energy

• Energy from abroad

• Reliable and affordable energy supply

• Energy from renewables only

Multiple Choice

Which of the following contributes least to the UK's electricity mix?

• Solar

• Gas

• Oil

• Wind

Open Ended

Explain two challenges the UK faces in ensuring energy security. Use Figure 1.

Explain two challenges the UK faces in ensuring energy security. Use Figure 1.

One challenge is the UK’s increasing reliance on imported energy, which can be affected by global events. Figure 1 shows imports rising from 5% in 2004 to 33% in 2010. Another challenge is the use of fossil fuels, which are non-renewable and polluting, creating long-term sustainability issues.

Fig 1

Open Ended

Explain why having a balanced energy mix is important for the UK.

Explain why having a balanced energy mix is important for the UK.

A balanced energy mix ensures that the UK is not over-reliant on one source, improving energy security. It also allows for flexibility in supply, especially during shortages or price rises in one sector.

Fig 1

Open Ended

Explain how Figure 1 shows a change in UK energy consumption over time.

Explain how Figure 1 shows a change in UK energy consumption over time.

Figure 1 shows that overall energy consumption in the UK has decreased from 1990 to 2020. This may be due to improved energy efficiency or changes in industrial activity.

Fig 1

Fig 2: Towards a renewable energy future

Multiple Choice

Which renewable source produces the most electricity in the UK?

• Wind

• Bioenergy

• Solar

• Hydro

Multiple Choice

Which renewable source is least used for UK electricity?

• Wind

• Bioenergy

• Solar

• Hydro

Multiple Choice

What percentage of renewable electricity is produced by wind?

• 13%

• 27%

• 36%

• 9%

Multiple Choice

Which energy source is most reliable for daily use?

• 13%

• 27%

• 36%

• 9%

Multiple Choice

Which energy source is most reliable for daily use?

• Wind

• Bioenergy

• Solar

• Hydro

Multiple Choice

Why is solar power less reliable in the UK?

• It’s expensive

• It needs fossil fuels

• Low sunlight in winter

• It harms wildlife

Open Ended

Explain how renewable energy sources can contribute to sustainability in the UK.

Explain how renewable energy sources can contribute to sustainability in the UK.

Renewables like wind and solar reduce greenhouse gas emissions, helping fight climate change. Bioenergy recycles waste and is produced domestically, making energy more sustainable and secure.

Fig 2

Open Ended

Explain one reason why the UK does not rely on just one renewable source.

Explain one reason why the UK does not rely on just one renewable source.

Each renewable source has limitations; for example, solar power is less effective in winter. Using a mix improves reliability and ensures a constant supply.

Fig 2

Open Ended

Explain why bioenergy is a key part of the UK’s renewable energy strategy.

Explain why bioenergy is a key part of the UK’s renewable energy strategy.

Bioenergy is reliable and can be produced year-round using crops and waste. It is the largest contributor to the UK's renewable electricity and reduces reliance on imports.

Fig 2

Fig 3: Morecambe Tidal Gateway Project

Multiple Choice

How many homes would the Morecambe Bay tidal project power?

• 1 million

• 2 million

• 3 million

• 500, 000

Multiple Choice

How many jobs is the project expected to create?

• 8,000

• 10,000

• 13,000

• 15,000

Multiple Choice

What environmental concern is linked to the tidal project?

• Increased emissions

• Habitat disruption

• Oil leaks

• Tsunamis

Multiple Choice

What type of development is the tidal project considered to be?

• Residential

• Multi-use

• Commercial

• Industrial

Multiple Choice

Which of the following is a benefit of the proposed transport link?

• Fewer tourists

• Higher energy prices

• Shorter travel times

• More traffic on the M6

Open Ended

Explain why some local people might support the tidal barrage project.

Explain why some local people might support the tidal barrage project.

Local people may support it because it brings jobs, powers homes, and reduces travel times, improving transport links across the region. It may also bring more tourists and boost local businesses.

Fig 3

Open Ended

Explain why conservationists might oppose the project.

Explain why conservationists might oppose the project.

Conservationists may worry about habitat destruction in protected areas like AONBs and SSSIs. The project could disturb wildlife and change natural coastal environments.

Fig 3

Open Ended

Explain why this project is an example of a sustainable development dilemma.

Explain why this project is an example of a sustainable development dilemma.

The project offers long-term clean energy and economic growth but risks harming the environment. Balancing energy needs with environmental protection is a key sustainability challenge.

Fig 3

In the final part of this revision, you will categorise the most important information from the Pre Release and then reflect on some model answers.

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Categorize

Options (18)

Graphs show changes in UK energy sources (fossil fuels, renewables) from 1990–2020

Import levels increased sharply after 2004, highlighting dependency on foreign energy.

Fossil fuels still form a large part of the mix despite rise in renewables

Pie chart shows renewable electricity by type: bioenergy (36%), wind (27%), solar (13%).

Bioenergy is the most used renewable, with wind power second

Highlights importance of varied renewable sources in UK’s energy mix.

The barrage could power 2 million homes, create 13,000 jobs, and cost £10bn.

Transport improvements: saves £250m/year, cuts travel time by 75%.

Environmental promise: emission-free energy, fuel savings, flood protection.

Morecambe Bay is a protected site (SSSI, AONB), key for birds and marine life.

Nature tourism and scenic value make it popular for visitors and locals

Tidal flats and salt marshes support a rich ecosystem and wildlife habitats

Energy must be secure, affordable, and sustainable (the ‘trilemma’).

RSPB and conservationists highlight risks to habitats and wildlife.

Others say it’s transformative and tackles both climate and economic issues.

Some say it’s too expensive and won’t help local communities equally.

Others argue it boosts the economy, protects against climate threats, and provides jobs.

Emphasis on weighing environmental risks vs. long-term national benefits.

Summarise the key ideas for each Fig

Fig 1 (p2 & 3)

Fig 2 (p4 & 5)

Fig 3 (p6 & 7)

Categorize

Options (17)

Improves access and transport for local communities

Creates 13,000 jobs

Helps regenerate places like Barrow-in-Furness

Risk of rural decline (e.g. Barrow losing workers to other areas)

Construction disruption to communities

Overcrowding during peak tourism season

Saves £250m/year in transport costs

Generates £400m/year in economic growth

Long-term investment in clean infrastructure and industries

£10 billion construction cost

High long-term maintenance and running costs

Reduces emissions and fossil fuel dependency

Provides flood protection and saves fuel

Tidal energy is renewable and low-carbon

Threatens wildlife in SSSI and AONB areas

Disturbs habitats and risks marine/bird life

Environmental consequences not fully understood

Categorise the following as social, economic, or environmental arguments

Social

Economic

Environmental

Multiple Choice

Which response is better for the question:

To what extent is the tidal barrage a sustainable solution for the UK? Use Figures 1–3 and your own understanding.

• Student A

  The tidal barrage is quite a sustainable solution because it produces clean energy for 2 million homes (Figure 3), which helps the UK rely less on fossil fuels (Figure 1). This supports long-term energy security and cuts carbon emissions. It could also protect against flooding and storm damage, saving £100 million a year. 

  However, it might not be fully sustainable if it harms the environment. Morecambe Bay is a protected area (SSSI), and tidal energy can disturb habitats. Figure 2 shows tidal energy is not widely used, possibly because of high costs and risks to nature. Overall, it is mostly sustainable but only if environmental damage is avoided. 

• Student B

  The tidal barrage will help the UK stop using fossil fuels and create energy for homes. This is good because fossil fuels are bad for the environment and we need energy that doesn’t run out. If we don’t stop using fossil fuels, then we could run out and that would be really bad. It is a good solution because it is renewable and clean. This means the energy is better for the planet and will help us not pollute the air as much. It also protects against flooding and will help people travel more easily, which is something we should all care about because travel is important for people to get to work and school. So overall, the project is good for everyone and the UK should do it.

To what extent is the tidal barrage a sustainable solution for the UK? Use Figures 1–3 and your own understanding.

Student A was better.

This is because:
1) It covers all 3 Figures
2) Reasonably balanced
3) Some evaluation of both sides

9-Mark Model Answers

To what extent is the tidal barrage a sustainable solution for the UK? Use Figures 1–3 and your own understanding.

Student A was better.

Highlighted on Student B's response in green is where they have scored marks.
To improve, Student B should:
1) Make points less general
2) Refer to Figure more
3) Add counter-argument

9-Mark Model Answers

Multiple Choice

Which response is better for the question:

Do the economic benefits of the project outweigh the costs? Use Figures 1–3 and your own understanding

• Student A

  The project will make a big difference to the UK because it will do lots of things like produce electricity and help people. It will generate power, reduce pollution and make it easier to get around. Transport is very important so helping transport is very important. It’s good for the economy because people will have more money and it helps stop climate change, which is something we all care about. Also, energy is important because without it we can’t live modern lives. We use energy for everything so this project will help with that. This is why the project is helpful and should be supported because it’s good.

• Student B

  The economic benefits include creating 13,000 jobs and generating £400 million a year from growth (Figure 3). It also reduces travel costs by £250 million each year, which helps local people and businesses. The project could also help regenerate places like Barrow-in-Furness. 

  However, it will cost £10 billion to build and take 25 years to complete. Tidal energy is expensive compared to other renewables (Figure 2), which could make it less cost-effective. Overall, the benefits are strong, but the high cost makes it a difficult decision. 

Do the economic benefits of the project outweigh the costs? Use Figures 1–3 and your own understanding

Student B was better.

Highlighted on Student A's response in green is where they have scored marks.
To improve, Student A should:
1) Make points less simplistic
2) Develop and explain points
3) Use Figures from Pre-Release
4) Avoid repeating ideas

9-Mark Model Answers

Do the economic benefits of the project outweigh the costs? Use Figures 1–3 and your own understanding

We can even improve Student B.

Highlighted on Student B's response in green is where this is improved.
It is a good answer because:
1) It is well-supported from Figures
2) There is clear evaluation & judgement
3) It fully considers long- and short-term economic effects

9-Mark Model Answers

Multiple Choice

Which response is better for the question:

Should the UK invest more in tidal energy projects like this one? Use Figures 1–3 and your own understanding. 

• Student A

  The Morecambe Bay barrage will produce electricity for millions of people and save money on travel. This means people will like it and it will probably help the country. If people like something it usually means it's a good idea. Also, it means people can go to more places which helps them do their jobs and visit people. But it costs a lot and takes time to build, so that’s not good because expensive things are not always a good idea. Ten billion pounds is a lot of money and it could be spent on other things. But then again maybe it’s worth it if it helps people, so I think it could be a good thing depending on what happens.

• Student B

  Tidal energy is a good long-term option because it is reliable and clean. It could help the UK reduce emissions and meet climate targets. The Morecambe Bay project would generate enough power for 2 million homes (Figure 3), which supports energy security. 

  However, it is very expensive. Figure 2 shows tidal power is not widely used, possibly because it can cost 10 times more than onshore wind. It also risks damaging the environment in sensitive areas like Morecambe Bay. The UK should invest more, but only in carefully selected sites. 

Should the UK invest more in tidal energy projects like this one? Use Figures 1–3 and your own understanding. 

Student B was better.

Highlighted on Student A's response in green is where they have scored marks.
To improve, Student A should:
1) Add more clarity or evaluation
2) Give evidence using the Figures
3) Remove loseley connected ideas
4) Develop their structure of PEEL paragraphs

9-Mark Model Answers

Should the UK invest more in tidal energy projects like this one? Use Figures 1–3 and your own understanding. 

We can even improve Student B.

Highlighted on Student B's response in green is where this is improved.
It is a good answer because:
1) It is balanced and evaluative
2) It uses all 3 Figures
3) Final judgement is reason and accepts that the issues are complex

9-Mark Model Answers

Well done!
You have revised the key concepts for your Pre-Release!

Remember:
1) BUG your questions and tick off what you BUG-ed as you write or check your answers
2) Quote from your pre-release and explain your points in the exam
3) Use the Figures the questions tell you to use
4) Make links to other areas of the Geography curriculum for the highest marks

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