001 - On the move

Factual Questions

What are the causes of migration?

What migration models are there?

Debatable Question

What relevance do migration models have in today's world?

Key Terminology

            • Migration
            • Push factors
            • Pull factors
            • Lee's model of migration
            • Ravenstein's law

Define the word migration using the 'Useful Links' below:


Useful Link

Activity One - Why?

Migration is a traditional geography unit of study so why are we studying it in International Relations?


      1. Write within two paragraphs why migration should be explored in an International Relations course?
      2. Using the International Relations flip board - read the newspapers you are following today and 'flip' any relevant migration articles into our magazine.
      3. Pick three of the most interesting articles you have 'flipped' and summarise them on paper. Be prepared to share your findings with the group.
Taken From: http://ichef-1.bbci.co.uk/news/1024/cpsprodpb/7BAF/production/_85336613_index.jpg

Activity Two - 'On the Move'

Migration and the impact of migration is a large part of International Relations as migrants impact both their country of origin and country of destination. As migration can be voluntary or forced they both pose similar yet different issues. Answer the following questions.


      1. Watch the clip from the economist and write down generally where people are migrating to from what continents.
      2. Using the website migrationsmap.net choose three countries and describe where those people migrate to.
      3. Mind map the potential reasons why these people may be 'on the move'. You could also use your own experience of being an international student to help with this question.

Useful Resources

Tracking World Migration

Activity Three - Models

Migration is a controversial issue for many and while we will be focusing primarily on these issues it is good to get an understanding of how we can model the movements of people. We will be focusing on the basic push and pull factor model, Lee's Model of migration and Ravenstein's Law. As you are in the third rotation of your Individuals and Societies classes this should hopefully be a review.


Answer the following questions in full sentence on paper. If you are struggling use the useful links below.


      1. Describe what generally the push and pull factors of migration are?
      2. Draw a diagram to illustrate the main push and pull factors.
      3. Describe how Lee's model differs from the basic push and pull factor idea?
      4. Draw a simple diagram to illustrate Lee's model.
      5. What could be the intervening obstacles in Lee's model?
      6. What is Ravenstein's Law?
      7. Write a summary of the different elements of Ravenstein's law.

Extension - Models

While it is interesting to know about different models of migration are they useful and are they still valid in today's society? Write at least three paragraphs explaining your views on the usefulness and validity of Lee's Model and Ravenstein's Law.

This is an opinion piece so there is no incorrect answer but you do need to give clear reasons for your argument.