How marks are awarded

Each marking point in the mark scheme represents one mark. Points are separated by semicolons (;). Alternative acceptable answers are separated by slashes (/). Words in brackets are helpful but not required for the mark.

Example: "mitochondria; site of (aerobic) respiration / releases energy" means: 1 mark for naming mitochondria, 1 mark for stating their function (either "site of respiration" or "releases energy" is acceptable).

What the symbols mean

; = separates marking points (each worth 1 mark)
/ = alternative acceptable answers
( ) = words that are not essential but are accepted
R = reject this answer (it is wrong)
A = accept this answer
ORA = or reverse argument (the opposite statement is also acceptable)

How to mark your child's work

1. Have your child answer a past paper question without notes.
2. Open the mark scheme together.
3. For each marking point, check whether your child's answer contains the required information: the wording does not need to be identical, but the scientific content must match.
4. Award marks honestly. Count total marks and identify which points were missed.
5. Discuss why the missed points were missed: was it a knowledge gap or an exam technique issue?