General Studies 2023 GS Paper I 10 marks 150 words Compulsory Explain

Q6

How are the fjords formed? Why do they constitute some of the most picturesque areas of the world? (Answer in 150 words) 10

हिंदी में प्रश्न पढ़ें

फियोर्ड कैसे बनते हैं? वे दुनिया के कुछ सबसे सुरम्य क्षेत्रों का निर्माण क्यों करते हैं? (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)

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Directive word: Explain

This question asks you to explain. The directive word signals the depth of analysis expected, the structure of your answer, and the weight of evidence you must bring.

See our UPSC directive words guide for a full breakdown of how to respond to each command word.

How this answer will be evaluated

Approach

The directive 'explain' requires clear causal reasoning for fjord formation followed by aesthetic justification. Structure: brief definition → glacial erosion process (U-shaped valleys, sea level rise) → scenic elements (steep cliffs, waterfalls, reflection) → specific examples → concluding synthesis of geomorphology and tourism value.

Key points expected

Glacial erosion mechanism: alpine glaciers carve U-shaped valleys through plucking and abrasion during Ice Age
Post-glacial submergence: rising sea levels or land subsidence flood valleys creating narrow, deep inlets
Scenic attributes: near-vertical walls, pristine waters, waterfalls plunging from hanging valleys, mirror-like reflections
Specific examples: Norway's Geirangerfjord/Sognefjord, New Zealand's Milford Sound, India's absence (no fjords) or comparison with Western Ghats/ Himalayas
Human-nature interface: UNESCO status, sustainable tourism, climate vulnerability
Word economy: 150 words demands precise technical terms without elaboration

Evaluation rubric

Dimension	Weight	Max marks	Excellent	Average	Poor
Demand-directive understanding	20%	2	Addresses BOTH parts equally—formation process (glacial origin + marine inundation) AND scenic rationale (specific visual elements), with explicit causal connectors	Covers both parts but treats formation superficially or lists scenic features without linking to geomorphology	Misses one part entirely or confuses fjords with rias, estuaries, or Indian landforms like khors
Content depth & accuracy	20%	2	Uses precise geomorphological terms: U-shaped valley, hanging valley, plucking, abrasion, isostatic rebound, glacial trough; distinguishes fjords from similar features	Mentions glaciers and steep cliffs but uses imprecise language like 'valley made by ice' without process detail	Factual errors: attributes formation to river erosion, tectonic activity alone, or claims India has fjords
Structure & flow	20%	2	Logical progression: definition → formation mechanism → scenic qualities → examples; seamless transitions despite word constraint; no repetition	Coherent but either front-loaded with formation leaving scenic part rushed, or vice versa; minor structural imbalance	Disorganised: jumps between formation and scenery without completion; fragmented bullet-like listing without synthesis
Examples / case-law / data	20%	2	Names 2+ specific fjords (Norway/New Zealand/Chile/Canada) with locational precision; or contrasts with Indian context explicitly; mentions UNESCO World Heritage status if relevant	Vague reference to 'Norway' or 'Scandinavia' without named fjords; or examples mentioned without geographic anchoring	No examples; or incorrect examples (fjords in India, or confusing with Kerala backwaters, Dal Lake)
Conclusion & analytical edge	20%	2	Brief synthesis linking formation uniqueness to conservation value/tourism economy; or climate change threat to fjord ecosystems; shows interdisciplinary awareness	Generic closing statement restating beauty without new insight; or abrupt ending without conclusion	No conclusion; or introduces entirely new information in final line; or concludes with irrelevance to question

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