Why GCSE Science students lose marks despite knowing the answer

Many students know their Science well but still drop marks on the long questions. The reason is usually not knowledge. It is how the answer is written.

How 6-mark questions are marked

These questions are marked in levels. The examiner reads the whole answer, decides which level it fits best, and then gives a mark within that level. A top-level answer is clear, correct, in a sensible order, and answers the exact question asked. A list of loose facts, even correct ones, often stays in a lower level.

Read the command word first

• Describe: say what happens, step by step. No reasons needed.
• Explain: say what happens and why. Use "because" and "so".
• Compare: give similarities and differences, talking about both things in each point.
• Evaluate: give points for and against, then make a judgement.
• Suggest: use what you know in a new situation. There may be more than one right answer.

A simple plan for every long answer

1. Underline the command word and the key science words in the question.
2. Jot down 4 to 6 points in the margin.
3. Put them in a logical order (for a practical: equipment, method, measurements, safety, repeat).
4. Write in full sentences with the correct science words.
5. Re-read the question: have you answered exactly what was asked?

Common ways marks are lost

• Describing when the question says explain.
• Using everyday words instead of scientific ones.
• Repeating the question back instead of adding new points.
• Missing out units or the control variables in a practical.

The fix is practice with feedback. Write a timed long answer each week, then compare it with the mark scheme and see which level it reached.