Understanding Population Change Within Countries

This page delves deeper into the factors influencing population dynamics IGCSE geography, focusing on birth rates, death rates, and migration. It explains the Demographic Transition Model (DTM) and population pyramids, illustrating how they represent different stages of population change.

Key points include:

• Factors affecting birth rates and death rates in different countries
• Stages of the Demographic Transition Model
• Interpretation of population pyramids
• Ageing populations in developed countries like the UK

Definition: The Dependency Ratio is the ratio of the dependent population (ages 0-15 and 65+) to the working-age population $16-64$, multiplied by 100. A higher ratio indicates a higher level of dependency.

Vocabulary: Birth Rate (BR) - The number of babies born per 1000 people per year. Death Rate (DR) - The number of deaths per 1000 people per year.

Example: Southport in the UK has an ageing population, with 26% of its population over 65, compared to 18% in England and Wales overall.

Population Policies and Ageing Populations

This page focuses on population policies linked to ageing populations and their impact on economic development, particularly in EU countries. It explores the reasons behind ageing populations and the challenges they present.

Key points include:

• Factors contributing to ageing populations in developed countries
• Economic impacts of ageing populations
• Areas where public money is spent on the elderly

Highlight: By 2050, it's projected that 1 in 4 people in the UK will be over 65, compared to 1 in 6 currently.

Example: The average cost of raising a child from birth to 18 years in the UK is estimated at £165,000, which contributes to lower birth rates.

Quote: "At present the average number of children per couple in Italy, Spain & the UK is 1.3 - replacement level is 2.1"

The page also discusses how ageing populations affect economic development, including increased public spending on healthcare, allowances, and benefits for the elderly, which can reduce funds available for other areas such as education and infrastructure.

Population Change: Concepts and Case Studies

This page introduces key concepts in population change for GCSE Geography, focusing on reasons for contrasting rates of natural population change and population dynamics IGCSE geography. It outlines the main topics covered in the document, including:

• World population growth factors
• Demographic transition model and population pyramids
• Impact of urbanization, agricultural change, education, and women's emancipation
• Population policies for ageing populations in EU countries
• Migration patterns and effects
• Case studies on migration and population policies

The page also highlights factors affecting population growth in Less Economically Developed Countries (LEDCs), such as:

• Women's emancipation and education
• Urbanization and shift from agricultural to industrial work
• Improved education and access to contraception

Highlight: Most global population growth occurs in LEDCs, influenced by rural living, agricultural practices, education levels, and women's status.

Example: As women gain better education and career opportunities, they tend to have fewer children and use contraception more effectively.