Population and change

You need to distinguish between urbanisation and de-urbanisation.

Urbanisation occurs when people move into the cities. In recent years a growing number of young professionals have moved into fashionable city apartments.
De-urbanisation occurs when people move out of cities. Since the 1970s a considerable number of people have moved out of cities and into the suburbs. This is due to several factors such as a lower crime rate in the suburbs, a higher standard of living and an attempt to lead a greener lifestyle

For the examination you will also need to know the similarities and differences between rural and urban life.

Rural life	Urban life
Life in the countryside has grown in popularity due to the desire amongst many people to lead a more environmentally-friendly lifestyle	Urban areas offer more convenience and a fast-past lifestyle; both of which tends to suit younger people
Issues such as fox hunting and farming are important to the rural economy. However there are relatively few job opportunities in the rural economy. There is also a lack of facilities. Most people who live in rural areas commute to work (and travel to shop) in more built-up areas	Urban areas tend to experience high levels of unemployment and the problems associated with environmental poverty

In a multi-cultural society such as the UK there are a variety of different ethnic groups, and since the 1960s, governments of both main parties have made several attempts to assimilate ethnic minorities into society. One recent example is the Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000 – which forces institutions such as the police, schools, and the civil service to promote good race relations.

The media also plays a major role in encouraging harmonious race relations. Schools can also play a role in socialising people towards a more tolerant view of ethnic minorities. However, this is not always the case. When a peer group holds racist and intolerant views, it is likely that members of that group will share such views. The type of school can also have an impact. For example single-faith schools have been criticised by the government agency Ofsted for failing to teach tolerance of different faiths.

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