Formulate a hypothesis and create a map for a Grade 11 Geography research task about conventional energy sources in Mpumalanga.

A hypothesis is a specific, testable statement that outlines a geographical problem, its location, and its impacts. When formulating a hypothesis, the statement must address the following questions:

• Where is it? This identifies the specific spatial location of the research area.
• What is it? This defines the geographical issue or phenomenon being studied.
• How it ought to be? This implies a desired state or a standard against which the current situation is measured (often implied by the problem's negative impacts).
• Human Impacts? This describes the effects of the geographical problem on people or communities.

Example:

• What is it? Conventional energy sources, especially coal.
• Where is it? In Mpumalanga.
• Human Impacts? They are central to South Africa's energy supply but cause significant environmental damage and pose sustainability challenges.

Mapping is a crucial step to visually represent the research area and its geographical context. The requirements for mapping include:

• Provide a map of the area in question.
• Create a buffer zone around the area of study.
• The map must have a key and be drawn to scale.
• It should be a most recent map.
• Maps can be downloaded from websites.