Population change

Question 1

Distinguish between birth rate and fertility rate. 4 marks

Answer 1

• Birth rate refers to the number of (live) births per 1000 per year
• Fertility rate is the number of (live) births per 1000 women per year (1) aged 15 – 49 (1).
• The differences relate to the group of people involved – the birth rate refers to the whole population
• Whilst the fertility rate refers to the female component only (1)
• and in its most specific sense is an age specific rate relating to those of child-bearing age (1).

Question 2

Outline the usefulness of infant mortality rate as an indicator of development. 4 marks

Answer 2

• Infant mortality is the number of deaths under 1 (per 1000 live births per year)
• It reflects the deaths in one of the most vulnerable age groups (1)
• It implies much about levels of development and standard of living (1)
• High levels are often responsible for high levels of births to ensure the survival of most of family (1).