IGCSE BUSINESS EXAM TECHNIQUE MAT
Define (1 mark) - A01
Write a brief definition.
No need to include an example.
Outline (2 marks)
Assesses AO2.
State 1 benefit/drawback/impact/
method etc.
Provide one strand of development
(1IP/1EP).
Answer using the context provided in
the case study.
State (1 mark) - AO2
Must have context – related to the scenario of the
paper.
If the question refers to a specific business, then context
must be included in the answer.
Explain (3 marks) - AO1
Always start with ‘Explain one…’
1 mark awarded for identification of an
advantage/disadvantage
/benefit/drawback/method/reason etc.
A further 2 marks awarded for explanation - 1 mark for
each strand.
(1IP & 2EP)
Note: A list of points with no development will only
score 1 mark.
Justify (9 marks)
CONTEXT/APPLICATION TIP
Requires 5 application references (5AR) – 1;2;2;0.
Choice between two options.
Context comes from the case
Include a definition/introduction.
study.
A conclusion (justification) is required – look broader to the
industry and don’t just repeat your point evaluations.
To put an answer into context,
Recommended to consider both options.
think about the kind of product
Write 6 linked strands of explanation (1IP/3EP & 1IP/3EP).
the business sells or the
Answer the question by offering balance and/or attaching value to competition in the market, for
the points you are making, which show your ability weigh-up an
example.
issue and make a judgement about how important or significant it
is.
Application refers to using
You can do this by explaining why one option might be more or
context in your answer –
less important, or by including a judgement as to which of the two applying the context.
options is the most important and why.
Consider what this depends on.
Include a detailed conclusion (AJH).
Paragraph 1 – Introduction/definition
Paragraph 2 – 1st pro of option chosen
Paragraph 3 – 2nd pro of option chosen or con of other option
Paragraph 4 – Conclusion
Calculate (2 marks) - A01
No marks awarded for the formula.
Show your workings.
If multiple answers, the only answer that counts is the one
written on the line provided.
Where applicable, give answers to 2dp.
Give units, if not already provided.
Analyse (6 marks) - AO2/AO3
Requires 2 application references (2AR).
Use context provided in the case study.
Provide 1/2 impacts/benefits/drawbacks etc.
Requires a one-sided argument.
Brief definition – expand if difficult to get a 2nd expansion point.
Write 5/6 linked strands of explanation.
2 points with 6 strands gives balance
(1IP & 5EP) (1IP & 3EP/1IP & 3EP).
Evaluate (12 marks)
Requires 6 application references (6AR) – 2;2;2;0.
Start with ‘Evaluate whether...’ or
‘Evaluate the (factors)…’
Include a definition/introduction.
A conclusion (judgement) is required.
Write 6 linked strands of explanation (1IP/3EP & 1IP/3EP).
Answer using the context provided in the case study.
Give balance and/or attach value to the points you are making,
which show your ability to weigh up reasons and make a judgement
about how important or likely it is.
You can do this by explaining why one option might be more or less
important or by including a judgement as to which of the two
options is the most important and why.
Consider what this depends on.
Include a detailed conclusion (AJH).
Paragraph 1 – Introduction/definition
Paragraph 2 – Argument agreeing with statement / Factor 1
Paragraph 3 – Counter-argument / Factor 2
Paragraph 4 – Conclusion