WASSCE 2026 GEOGRAPHY TRIALS Define settlement. Name two types of urban settlements classified according to population size. State five ways in which urban settlements depend on rural settlements. Outline three functions of urban settlements.

a) A settlement is a place where people live and interact, ranging from a single dwelling to a large city. It involves the establishment of human habitation and the associated infrastructure.

b) Two types of urban settlements classified according to population size are:

1. Town
2. City

c) Urban settlements depend on rural settlements in the following five ways:

1. Food supply: Rural areas provide agricultural products like grains, vegetables, fruits, and livestock to feed the urban population.
2. Raw materials: Rural areas supply raw materials for urban industries, such as timber, minerals, and agricultural produce for processing.
3. Labor supply: Many people migrate from rural areas to urban centers in search of employment and better opportunities, providing a workforce for urban industries and services.
4. Market for urban goods: Rural populations serve as a market for manufactured goods and services produced in urban areas.
5. Water supply: Urban areas often rely on water sources located in rural catchment areas, which are then piped to the cities.

d) Three functions of urban settlements are:

1. Administrative functions: Urban centers often serve as the seat of government, housing administrative offices, courts, and other public services.
2. Commercial functions: Cities are hubs for trade and commerce, featuring markets, shops, banks, and various business establishments.
3. Industrial functions: Many urban areas are centers for manufacturing and industrial activities, with factories and industrial estates producing goods.