Exam Technique

• What should you do before answering a question in an exam?

  Read the question carefully.
• Why might a single answer not be enough for a high mark?

  Because a lengthy response is often required for higher marks.
• How can command words in a question guide your response?

  They indicate what is expected, such as describe or explain.
• How should the number of marks influence your answer length?

  The number of marks indicates how much you should write.
• What is the significance of linking points back to the scenario in an exam answer?

  It helps to ensure your answer is relevant and focused.
• What is the structure for writing an evaluation question in an exam?

  • Use scenario-based questions.
  • Link points back to the scenario.
  • Include A01, A02, and A03 marks.
• What does A01 mark refer to in exam responses?

  A01 marks are for basic understanding and knowledge.
• How many sentences are needed to attain an A02 mark?

  You need two sentences to attain an A02 mark.
• What should you focus on learning first during revision?

  Focus on learning the A03 content first.
• In a straightforward 3000-word essay, what should you aim to write about?

  You should write about the best written paragraph in A03/A02.
• How many A03 points should you aim for in a 30M describe, apply, and evaluate essay?

  Aim for 5 A03 points, with 2 linking back to the scenarios.
• What is the best practice for writing A02/A03 points in an essay?

  It is best practice to write all A02/A03 points in one paragraph.
• What are the key components of a PECS structure in exam writing?

  • Point: State your main idea.
  • Evidence: Provide supporting data.
  • Commentary: Explain the significance of the evidence.
  • Structure: Ensure coherence and clarity.
• What is required to attain the full 3 marks available for a PECS?

  It must be coherent and well-explained.
• How should you ensure your elaborations in an exam answer are effective?

  Make sure they explain the data, not just repeat the point.
• What is the structure for a plural describe and evaluate essay?

  1. Outline the first explanation/thread/treatment.
  2. Describe and evaluate it as an A01 paragraph.
  3. Follow with a second explanation/thread/treatment.
  4. Include a final A03 paragraph with 300 words.
• What should you do in short questions or 8M essays regarding PECS?

  Ensure your choice of PECS links to the content you have chosen to write about.
• Why is it important to write in continuous sentences for PECS?

  It ensures clarity and coherence in your argument.
• How should you approach writing a plural describe and evaluate essay?

  Outline and evaluate each explanation/thread separately before concluding.
• Describe, outline, explain, define, what is meant by

  AO1- strength and limitation= AO3 content

  2 marks= define and explain
• Describe, outline, explain, define, what is meant by 


  AO1- strength and limitation= AO3 contentAO1- strength and limitation= AO3 content

  2 marks= define and explain
• With reference to, using item above 


  AO2- scenario based, no AO3 content
• Evaluate, analyse, strength, limitation, criticism, weakness

  AO3- use SODA, TEMS, RAVE

  1 A03= point and elaborate

  2 A03= PEE/PEC

  3 AO3= PEEC
• Research 


  Use study or theories/explanations
• Aim


  Only get credit for say what is being investigated/ purpose of study
• Procedure/ how has it been investigated 


  Credit for process, how it was/would be carried out
• Show/findings 


  Credit for results of study
• Conclusions 


  Explain what findings of study suggest
• Identify, state, name 


  No sentence, state few words for answer
• Distinguish/ differences 


  Outline 2 things directly, Use whereas. 4M= use structure twice
• Compare 


  Similarity and difference, use AO1 or AO3 content for answer
• Discuss


  Describe and evaluate, A03 and A03

  4M= 2 A03 and 2 A03

  6M= 2 A01 and 4 A03
• Discuss strength/limitation 


  Describe strength, however, give limitation- in same paragraph