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      Distribution of oil reserves, factors affecting growth of oil consumption

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can explain how oil reserves and production are unevenly distributed and that oil consumption is increasing.

      Key learning points

      1. The global demand for oil is increasing.
      2. Oil reserves and production are unevenly distributed.
      3. Oil consumption is growing due to rising per capita GDP and rapid industrialisation in emerging countries.

      Keywords

      • Oil reserves - locations where oil is found in significant amounts

      • Industrialisation - the process by which an economy is transformed from primarily agricultural to one based on manufacturing and industry

      • Emerging countries - nations with social or business activities in the process of rapid growth and industrialisation

      Common misconception

      All countries consume oil at the same rate.

      Oil consumption varies based on industrialisation, population size, and economic factors.

      Teacher tip

      Interestingly, as development increases, countries use more energy and oil. That is, until the country reaches a high level of development whereby oil consumption falls off. Students could explore reasons for this (e.g. energy efficiency, vehicle electrification, rise of renewable energy).

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      Match the keywords to their correct definitions:

      Correct Answer:Non-renewable,Energy sources that will run out over time

      Energy sources that will run out over time

      Correct Answer:Renewable,Can be used again and again without running out

      Can be used again and again without running out

      Correct Answer:Fossil fuels,Coal, oil and gas formed from ancient plants and animals

      Coal, oil and gas formed from ancient plants and animals

      Correct Answer:Energy mix,A combination of energy sources a country uses

      A combination of energy sources a country uses

      Q2.
      Which of these is an example of a renewable energy source?

      Coal
      Natural gas
      Correct answer: Wind
      Oil

      Q3.
      What is the main reason energy consumption is higher in high-income countries?

      They have more forests
      People drive less
      Correct answer: They have more access to technology and industry
      They use candles for lighting

      Q4.
      Which of these is a non-renewable energy source?

      Solar
      Biomass
      Tidal
      Correct answer: Oil

      Q5.
      Countries aim for energy to ensure a reliable and affordable supply.

      Correct Answer: security

      Q6.
      Why is it important for countries to use a mix of energy sources?

      To confuse consumers
      To make energy more expensive
      Correct answer: To reduce risk and improve supply reliability
      To use as much oil as possible

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      Match the keywords to their definitions:

      Correct Answer:Oil reserves,Areas where oil is found in large, usable amounts

      Areas where oil is found in large, usable amounts

      Correct Answer:Industrialisation,Change from farming-based to manufacturing-based economy

      Change from farming-based to manufacturing-based economy

      Correct Answer:Emerging countries,Countries experiencing fast growth in industry and economy

      Countries experiencing fast growth in industry and economy

      Q2.
      Which region has the largest proven oil reserves?

      North America
      South America
      Correct answer: Middle East
      Europe

      Q3.
      What is the main reason oil consumption is rising in emerging countries?

      More desert areas
      Correct answer: Rising industrialisation and wealth
      More public transport
      Use of wind power

      Q4.
      Why might oil consumption not grow in some countries despite population growth?

      More sunlight
      Correct answer: Greater investment in renewables
      Use of wood
      Fewer cows

      To help you plan your 11 geography lesson on: Distribution of oil reserves, factors affecting growth of oil consumption, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...