GCE Economics B: assessment support

Past question papers, mark schemes and examiners' reports are available on the qualification page.

These are kept locked for the first 9 months after an examination series and you will require an Edexcel Online username and password to be able to gain access.

The 'Explain' question can be answered in four sentences. Try to structure your response in the order of the mark scheme. Start with the knowledge mark, followed by your two separate pieces of application and conclude with the analysis mark. Using the name ofthe firm in the question is not considered Application and it is often common for candidates to only give one piece of Application. Think of the Application as the filling in a sandwich with the Knowledge and Analysis either side of it. Using this structure will ensure you do not write generic responses.

At this level do not assume that a simple definition will achieve a knowledge/understanding mark. It is the use of this knowledge to demonstrate understanding that is rewarded. There are no marks for definitions as such, it is important that accurate knowledge and understanding is there to support application and analysis.

The 4 mark ‘Explain’ questions will always have two application marks so candidates must ensure that there is enough application to achieve both marks. The AO allocation for this question will always be: 1 knowledge, 2 application and 1 analysis mark, so candidates need to ensure that they provide enough use of context - whether this is use of their own examples, data or context from the extract to be able to gain both application marks.  If the response is generic and could apply to any industry, it can only score 2 marks.

Application is where candidates have a tendency to lose marks. Application can be the use of data either from the extracts or from a previous question. Simply copying large parts of the extract will not gain application marks and information has to be used to support either the knowledge or analysis for it to be rewarded.  Often candidates only give one piece of application so could only be awarded 1 mark. This could be in the form of data such as market share figures or context applicable to the industry.  Responses that could apply to any industry or market are likely to be generic and can only score a maximum of 2 marks. Always ensure there are two separate pieces of application used in the response.

The examiner tip is to use the extracts for application. There will be more than enough context in the extracts to provide the application needed for a 4 mark question. Do not forget that for 4 mark explain questions, two points of application are required in order to get full marks.

For the Analysis mark, any consequence or development of the reason given for the Knowledge point is awarded.   The Analysis point does not need to be in context.

Knowledge and analysis points can be interchangeable and the main difference is that for a point to count as analysis, we are looking for some sort of developed consequence. Knowledge can be a simple statement. Remember, there are no marks for definitions for the 4 mark questions and the knowledge mark will always be for the reason.

Quantitative skills are an important part of the linear A Levels. ‘Calculate’ requires a calculation comprising four stages. For example, identifying the formula (for the one AO1 mark), locating the data, substituting the data in the formula and performing the calculation (for the three AO2 marks).

Candidates who are able to calculate the correct answer are awarded 4 marks. Marks could be awarded for showing workings but these are not necessary if the correct answer is shown. It is always advisable to show your working because even if the final answer is incorrect, marks can be awarded for formulas and correct workings. You do not need to include units in the working but do check you have used the correct units with the final answer.

Candidates are expected to be able to apply a range of quantitative skills such as percentage change. If the question asks for a percentage or an answer to two decimal places, then marks will be deducted if the response does not show a percentage or answer to two decimal places!

Don't lose marks by not rounding correctly or by missing the percentage sign. 

It is important that candidates know the difference between the mean/average and the median. This is particularly important when income data is being used. For example, what does it tell us about a data set if the median is significantly lower than the mean?

Correctly labelled diagrams are an essential part of the course and candidates should use past examination papers to practise them and ensure the correct curve is shifted with new equilibrium price and quantities drawn on the x and y axis. Only use Price and Quantity or P and Q for the axes for micro diagrams. Do not use Quantity Demanded for the y axis. Always label the equilibrium on the axes. Use a ruler and make sure the diagram is large enough to fill the box provided.  These questions assess quantitative skills.

The 4 mark ‘construct or draw’ questions will always require correct labelling of the diagram, so candidates must ensure that responses are fully labelled, with equilibrium point(s) shown on the axes. When a shift is required, it must not be ambiguous.

To demonstrate knowledge and understanding (for the two AO1 marks) students are required to draw the supply and demand curves, label them correctly, and ensure that the axes are also labelled correctly.

For application (the AO2 mark) candidates must manipulate the diagram showing the shift in demand or supply and the analysis mark (AO3) is gained by identifying the consequences of the manipulation, the new equilibrium to indicate a new price and sales volume (consequence).

Candidates should not show shifts to both supply and demand as this will not be awarded marks. Candidates will only ever be required to shift one curve, and double shifts can only be awarded 2 marks maximum (with correct labelling).

Often marks are lost because of incorrect labels of the x and y-axis: it must be labelled Price and Quantity and not Quantity Demanded. P and Q are accepted. It is essential that the original and new equilibrium price and quantity are labelled on the axes. Arrows are not required but many candidates use them to indicate the direction of the shift. You do not need to use arrows and it is better to label the new curve to show the direction of the shift.

The analysis (AO3) mark is for showing the new equilibrium at the market clearing point (the consequence of the shift)
 

The AO allocation for this question will always be: 2 knowledge, 2 application and 2 analysis marks, so candidates must ensure that they provide enough use of context to be able to gain both application marks.  Do not define the key terms in the question. Make sure you are giving two separate reasons supported by context and a consequence.

Candidates who only give one clear point of application will reduce the total marks achieved on this question. It is worth noting that simply copying the stem of the question cannot be considered for application marks.

Try to think of this 6-mark analyse question, where two reasons are asked for, as a 2 x 3-mark question.
When two factors are asked for and so each valid factor can achieve 1 knowledge/understanding mark, 1 application mark and 1 analysis mark. Each valid factor is therefore marked separately. If only one valid factor is identified, then a maximum of 3 marks can be achieved.

Try to use paragraphs to indicate to the examiner where a new element begins. It is also a useful technique to use in the longer essay questions. 

If an 'Analyse' question asks for a diagram the marks are split 4 marks for a correct diagram and 2 marks for the written analysis. For this type of question when you are being asked for diagram and some analysis, do not just describe the diagram but analyse why there is a shift in the curve in context. Examiners want to know why this occurs or the consequences for the market.

The marks for the diagram in a 6 mark question are awarded the same way as the diagram in a 4 mark question so ensure you correctly label the axes and curves. Only Price and Quantity (or P&Q) will be accepted for the axes.

Examples of 6/6 answer in examiners' reports:

This specification continues to use marking descriptors for all levels-based questions. It is essential that centres look at these and understand how these are applied. The levels-based mark schemes are applied in a holistic way rather than looking for individual assessment objectives. This means that a candidate who attempts evaluation with some context will not necessarily be placed in the top levels and may only achieve a maximum of level 2 if the evaluation is weak or context is lacking. Far too many candidates are simply copying out large sections of the extracts with an attempt at limited evaluation; this will only achieve lower levels.

You do not need to give any definitions to score full marks on the levels-based questions. Often this is the starting point for many candidates but definitions just waste valuable time which can be used to answer the question set.

You can be asked to draw a diagram within a levels-based question. Make sure that you fully explain the reasoning behind your diagram and give a counter argument as to what it depends on or why this might not be the case.

Diagrams must be accurate. Accurate labels for axes and equilibrium price level and output are basic elements of knowledge and understanding. Practice drawing diagrams to show increases and decreases in AD and AS, with the resulting impact on price level and real output. These can then be used to support analysis and evaluation.

For an 8 mark ‘Discuss’ question there are three levels. Examiners read the whole response and then decide which level best matches the response. Examiners then award marks according to the quality of the response within the level. If a response is lacking certain characteristics, examiners move towards the bottom of the level.

The command word ‘discuss’ is an evaluative command word so candidates must provide both sides of an economic argument in order to achieve full marks. Candidates should make sure they give both sides of the argument and use relevant evidence on both sides of the argument. A conclusion is not required for an 8 mark discuss question.

The 'discuss' question is always an evaluation question and many candidates only gave a one-sided response. Ensure a balanced assessment is made and the use of context on both sides of the argument will always enhance a response.

Weaker candidates only give a one-sided response so are unable to fulfil all the requirement of ‘a balanced awareness of competing arguments’ part of the descriptor in Level 3 in order to achieve full marks.

An accurate and relevant diagram can form the basis for both analysis and evaluation. In a macroeconomics essay, consider using one diagram for analysis and a second diagram to support competing arguments.

Examples of 7 and 8-mark answers can be found in the following examiners' reports:

The command word "Assess" will always require a deeper evaluation of an economic concept compared to the command word of "Discuss".

Context can be from the extracts themselves or from your own wider reading. Often we see very good responses that have plenty of economic concepts but they lack context so using the extracts or your own relevant context does make a difference when marking the levels-based questions as we take a holistic view when awarding the mark.

Candidates should ensure that they have relevant evidence (or often referred to as context) on both sides of your argument. It is often the case that context is lacking on the counter argument socandidates should double check that they are not giving a generic answer for this part of their response.

To reach the higher levels, chains of reasoning need to be developed. This means showing step-by-step why or how, something might happen.

Try to evaluate as the responses progresses. Donot make competing arguments less significant by locating them just at the end of the response.

Try to base a conclusion upon previous analysis and evaluation, rather than introducing new points in the conclusion.

Try and show some perception in your conclusions and do not simply just repeat the points already given in your answer.

To achieve level 4 candidates should demonstrate knowledge and understanding as well as provide coherent chains of reasoning. There should be balanced arguments which demonstrate validity and significance of competing arguments.

With the level of response questions, it is a good idea to read through your response and try and decide if the examiner could determine the question set from reading the essay. If this is not the case, then it is unlikely that the question has been fully answered. Remember, the 'assess' command word requires a full and balanced awareness of the validity and significance of competing arguments.

Examples of 9 and 10-mark responses can be found in the following examiners' reports:

This is a levels-based question with 4 levels.

It is a good idea to plan a 12-mark response before beginning the full answer. Be clear about your main arguments and counter-arguments. At the end of each paragraph ask yourself, am I answering the question? This will help focus the response and make it more likely to achieve a high level. Effective use of economic concepts is crucial for achieving higher levels on these types of questions.

Candidates are encouraged to use a range of relevant evidence throughout their response - either from the Extracts or use their own examples to highlight and demonstrate their chains of reasoning. The conclusion should not just be repetition of the earlier points made.

Use the data. The extracts are there for a reason and many candidates fail to incorporate any data into their responses. Using data lifts a response and really does help you contextualise your answer.  Examiners see far too many generic responses or stock answers which cannot access the higher levels. If a question states 'firms such...' as this means that you can use your own examples and are not restricted to the firm in the extracts. Bring in your wider reading and examples that you have studied in class. It makes a difference using data and/or relevant examples.

Generic responses are unable to get full marks. One of the Level 4 descriptors states that "full understanding of the question" is needed. Candidates need to ensure they show good understanding of economic theory and use this knowledge to develop coherent chains of reasoning based on the evidence provided.

Do not be afraid to use diagrams in your response even if a diagram is not required in the question. Often diagrams can illustrate much more quickly an economic concept than writing, and examiners do not negatively mark if there are errors in your diagrams. Diagrams should be a staple in your 'toolkit' of economic concepts and used appropriately. If you are going to use diagrams in your response, then please do refer to them and do actually use them to support your answer.

As with many of the more extended, levels based questions, there is a tendency to make unsupported assertions or offer lots of unexplained points, rather than following through coherent chains of reasoning which leads to many Level 2 scores.

The structure of such responses is important. It is not necessary to begin by defining terms but by answering the question straight away and relate this to the context. Then proceed with arguments and counter-arguments as the answer continues.

When setting out an argument or chain of reasoning it is always a good idea to be conditional, e.g. say 'it may happen' or 'this may lead to...' rather than ' it will happen' or 'this will lead to...'. This also acts as a prompt to set up a counter argument which is essential to reach the higher levels.

Try to provide a balanced evaluation where the main arguments for and against are equally weighted. Often we see unbalanced evaluation with one side having more weight. A conclusion is required for the 12 mark questions.

Make sure you have a specific focus for your evaluation rather than trying to cover too many points. Higher marks are always achieved by having depth rather than a 'kitchen sink' approach.

A conclusion is a good way to end the longer questions but don't just repeat previously made points. Try and sum up the opposing ideas and add something new by way of evaluation.

The most successful conclusions do not have to cover every point made in the essay or introduce a new point. A judgement should be made about the main arguments. For example, what is most important? How might this change in the future? 

Examples of high scoring answers in examiners' reports:

The 20 mark questions should allow candidates to take advantage of the wide-ranging data provided to them as well as to use prior-learning to produce balanced and coherent answers. Candidates who fail to use the data provided to them and give generic answers are unable to access the high levels in the mark scheme.  The 20 mark questions are designed to be open ended with no 'correct' answer as such. Examiners are looking for the ability to construct a logical argument either using the information provided or from wider reading. It is often very disappointing to see the current economic climate not being used to support chains of reasoning.

Try to organise 20-mark responses around arguments and counter-arguments. Use paragraphs to structure these arguments, so that competing arguments are linked. This can then help to construct a conclusion based on the significance of these competing arguments rather than repetition of earlier points.

Candidates are still providing generic and assertive responses for the 20 mark questions. The exam paper provides many extracts to enable the candidates to provide a contextualised response. Many candidates are not using this data well and are producing generic responses. Always ensure that examples used to support arguments are related to the context.

Always provide a conclusion for the 12 mark questions but do not simply repeat your previous points. The conclusion must add something to your response and this could be in the form of a judgement as to whether you think there are more positive or negative implications from a particular economic situation.

A conclusion is required and often this was just a repetition of previous points made rather than any solid final judgement. As with all the 20-mark questions, there is no 'correct' answer and the question was specifically designed to invite a range of arguments for and against employee protection.

Conclusions are important and are the last thing the examiner reads, so make them count. Do not just repeat previous points or summarise your response. Come to a final judgement that answers the question set.

The conclusion should show awareness of the validity and significance of competing arguments leading to a judgment. It should not simply repeat or summarise points previously given in the answer.  As with many of the longer levels of response questions, there is a tendency to make unsupported assertions or offer lots of unexplained points rather than following through coherent chains of reasoning. Make sure your evaluation is balanced and uses the information given rather than copying or paraphrasing information from the extracts.

Conclusions do not have to cover every point made in the essay. A judgement should be made about the main or key arguments. For example, what is most important? How might this change in the future?

In the Section B and C questions, the essays can be supported by candidates' own examples arising from their study of the subject. However, if a question asks for a response relating to a specific context, then it is expected that the answer will attempt to do this. Purely generic essays are unlikely to achieve Level 3, let alone Level 4 for these more extended question.

Examiners are looking for relevant evidence in terms of using the information in the extract or by candidates bringing in their own examples. Examiners do see many responses with ‘flawed’ or ‘incorrect’ economic understanding which does restrict the level an answer could access. Responses with accurate knowledge, supported by use of relevant evidence and an awareness of competing arguments with correct chains of reasoning, are able to access Level 3.

In order to access the highest marks, examiners are looking for a ‘nuanced and balanced conclusion’ which could include references to things such as the impact may depend upon PED, the state of the economy, the magnitude of any change, and time lags.

Candidates should think about how to write a balanced conclusion and base a conclusion upon previous analysis and evaluation. There may not be a single, 'correct' final conclusion. Perhaps more data may be needed or the time period in question may be too short. In any case, do not conclude an essay with simple, unsupported assertions. Read essays published in magazines and journals and take note of how conclusions are constructed in such articles.

For 20 marks response it is a good idea to create a simple plan at the top of the available space. This can help to ensure that the response is equally balanced and is not one-sided.

To achieve the highest marks on the 20 mark questions quality should be your focus. It is all about quality rather than quantity. Examiners are not counting the number of points you make and a maximum of 2 arguments per side is more than enough to access the higher levels. If you try to cover too many points, the evaluation becomes too thin and lacks depth and breadth. The 20 mark questions are designed to be open-ended and have a wide range of possible approaches so it is impossible to cover everything in the time you have in the examination. Aim for 1 mark per minute for all questions and demonstrate that you have studied the subject in depth rather than copying out the extracts or using a common sense approach.

Examples of high-scoring responses in examiners' reports: