Six mark questions
Six mark questions are often the questions that people find the most difficult. In all longer answer questions, but especially the six mark ones, it is important that you plan your answer and not just rush into it. After all, you would plan an essay or short story before starting. Without a plan it is easy to stray away from the key point and lose marks, get steps in a process in the wrong order or forget key bits of information. Remember to write your answer in full sentences, not bullet points.
Six mark questions will start with command words such as 'describe' 'evaluate' or 'explain'.
Some command words are easy to understand such as:
- 'calculate' or 'determine' for maths questions
- 'choose' for multiple choice questions
- 'complete' to fill in a gap in a table or graph
- 'define' to give the meaning of an important word
- 'suggest' where you use your knowledge in an unfamiliar situation
The command words 'describe' and 'explain' can be confusing. If you are asked to describe a graph, you will be expected to write about its overall shape, whether it is linear or curved, the slope of gradients etc. If you are asked to explain why a pattern or trend is seen in a graph, you will be expected to use your science knowledge not just say what you see (which is a description), eg 'The graph shows the pH of milk decreases. It does this becauseâŠ'
'Explain how' and 'why' questions often have the word 'because' in their answer. 'Describe' questions don't.
The number of marks per question part is given in this form '[6 marks]'. It is essential that you give as many different points in your answer as possible (ideally six).
The examiner looks for a 'level of response' in six mark questions. If you list some simple statements without a logical structure you will be limited to a maximum of two marks. A better answer for four marks would demonstrate your understanding, but may miss some details. Only answers that have a logical sequence with relevant detail would achieve six marks.
These questions have been written by Bitesize consultants as suggestions to the types of questions that may appear in an exam paper.
Sample question 1 - Foundation
Question
Describe the similarities and differences between plant and animal cells.
Answer six from:
- they are both eukaryotic so have a nucleus
- they both possess:
- cell membranes to control what enters and exits a cell
- cytoplasm where reactions occur
- ribosomes where proteins are made
- mitochondria where respiration occurs
- plant cells additionally have:
- chloroplasts where photosynthesis occurs
- a permanent vacuole filled with sap
- a cell wall made of cellulose for support
[6]
Sample question 2 - Foundation
Question
Use the lock and key hypothesis to model the action of enzymes including how they are denatured.
- the key is the enzyme and the substrate is the lock [1]
- the key is specific for the lock like an enzyme is for its substrate [1]
- extremes of pH or temperature denature enzymes [1]
- this alters the shape of the active site [1]
- so the key will no longer fit into the lock [1]
- the substrate can no longer be broken down or joined together [1]
Sample question 3 - Higher
Question
Cells have a complex structure to allow them to carry out the processes of life. Referring to prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms, explain how the cell's structure allows them to function [6 marks]
The following is a list of valid points that could be included in your answer. Each point would equal one mark:
- They are bounded by a cell membrane. It is a selective barrier which controls what substances can enter the cell such as food molecules or leave the cell such as waste products (excretion).
- They have ribosomes for protein synthesis. Proteins are needed for many cell structures/the enzymes which control the cell metabolism.
- Prokaryotic and some eukaryotic organisms have a cell wall. This gives strength/protection.
- All cells have DNA which codes for the proteins that are made.
- When reproduction/growth of new cells occurs the DNA is copied so that the daughter cells have the genetic information.
- The genetic material of prokaryotic cells is a single loop of DNA that lies in the cytoplasm and a plasmid. In eukaryotic organisms, it is in the nucleus.
- Some cells have chlorophyll/chloroplasts for photosynthesis/making food.
- Some cells have structures like flagella which allow them to move.
- Cells have mitochondria for respiration. Respiration releases the energy needed for the other like processes/cell functions.
[6]