Exam Technique: Part 4 - Extended mark questions

Introduction to Extended Answer Questions00:00:17

Extended answer questions, typically worth eight or more marks, are designed to test higher understanding. These questions often assess the quality of written communication, including spelling, punctuation, grammar, and technical terms. They are clearly marked in exam papers (e.g., with an asterisk or explicit statements).

Step 1: Highlight Command Words00:01:01

The first step is to highlight and understand the command words in the question, as these guide how the question should be answered. For example, 'discuss' means to give an account that addresses a range of ideas and arguments.

Step 2: Highlight Other Important Parts of the Question00:01:26

Next, highlight other crucial parts of the question to ensure your answer remains specific and on point. For instance, if the question asks about 'unrestricted access to the internet on young people,' make sure to address all these specific elements.

Step 3: Identify the Scenario00:02:10

If the question includes a scenario, identify it. Your arguments and examples must directly relate to this provided scenario, rather than just general knowledge about the topic.

Step 4: Split the Question into Multiple Parts00:02:38

Break down large questions into smaller, more manageable parts. For example, an eight-mark question asking about both social and ethical effects can be treated as two four-mark questions, ensuring equal attention to both aspects. This process, taking about a minute, helps maintain focus.

Further Breaking Down the Question00:03:56

Questions about 'effects' can be further divided into positive and negative effects. This can transform an eight-mark question into four two-mark questions (e.g., positive social effects, negative social effects, positive ethical effects, negative ethical effects), making it easier to structure your answer.

Creating a Writing Frame and Final Tips00:04:46

Create a writing frame based on these smaller parts to guide your answer, making it clearer for both you and the examiner. For two-mark sections, aim for at least two valid points. While paragraphs are not always necessary, use full sentences and check for spelling, punctuation, and grammar, especially for questions assessing written communication. Lastly, stay confident, use subject-specific terminology, provide relevant examples, be concise, and ensure legible handwriting.