One and two mark questions
One- to two-mark questions will start with command words such as 'describe' or 'explain'. Some command words are easy to understand such as:
- 'calculate' or 'determine' for maths questions
- 'complete' to fill in a gap in a table or graph
- 'state what is meant by' to give the meaning of an important term
- 'comment on' where you use your knowledge in an unfamiliar situation
The command words ‘describe’ and ‘explain’ can be confusing. If you are asked to describe a graph, you will be expected to write about its overall shape, whether it is linear or curved, the slope of gradients etc. If you are asked to explain why a pattern or trend is seen in a graph, you will be expected to use your science knowledge, not just say what you see (which is a description), eg 'The graph shows a steep linear increase for the first three hours because…'.
Explain how and why questions often have the word ‘because’ in their answer. Describe questions don’t.
The number of marks per question part is given in the form ‘[2 marks]’. It is essential that you give two different answers if a question is worth two marks. Sometimes you can gain a second mark by giving the units in a calculation or stating specific data points, eg 'The speed of the object decreased by 8m/s.'
Edexcel questions courtesy of Pearson Education Ltd.
Learn about command words with Dr Alex Lathbridge
Listen to the full series on BBC Sounds.
Understanding the different command words in your science GCSE exams.
Sample question 1 - Foundation and Higher
Question
A technician investigates the potential difference (voltage) across an electrical heater. This circuit diagram shows the circuit the technician uses.
Add a voltmeter to the circuit which will measure the potential difference (voltage) across the heater. [2 marks]
Make sure the voltmeter has a V inside the circle [1] and is connected in parallel to the heater [1].
Sample question 2 - Foundation and Higher
Question
The graphs show how the current in a component changes with the voltage applied across the component.
Draw a line from each component to its correct graph. [2 marks]
[2]
Sample question 3 - Foundation and Higher
Question
The current flowing through an LDR in different light conditions is measured. This table gives two of the readings:
| Light condition | Current in LDR |
| Bright sunlight | 0.039 A |
| Cloudy skies | 0.028 A |
| Light condition | Bright sunlight |
|---|---|
| Current in LDR | 0.039 A |
| Light condition | Cloudy skies |
|---|---|
| Current in LDR | 0.028 A |
Explain why the two current readings are different. [2 marks]
The resistance of the LDR increases as brightness decreases [1]. This causes a decrease in current [1].
