exam focus
AQA exam terms explained
In the third of a series of columns introducing the A-level assessment criteria, we focus on what the command words mean in AQA exams
AQA candidates are assessed according to two assessment objectives, as set out in Table 1. How does this work out in practice?
■ There are two components. Each component is assessed via externally assessed written examination.
■ You have to study both components.
In Component 2 you choose one of five religions (A: Buddhism, B: Christianity,
C: Hinduism, D: Islam, E: Judaism).
AS
■ For Component 1 you must answer four compulsory two-part questions. In each question the first part addresses AO1 and the second AO2. Each part carries 15 marks.
■ For Component 2 you must answer two compulsory two-part questions. In each question the first part addresses AO1 and the second AO2. Each part carries 15 marks.
A-level
For Component 1 you must answer two compulsory two-part questions. In each question the first part addresses AO1 and the second AO2 (AO1 = 10 marks, AO2 = 15 marks).
For Component 2 you must answer:
■ Section A: two compulsory two-part questions. In each question the first part addresses AO1 and the second AO2 (AO1 = 10 marks, AO2 = 15 marks).
■ Section B: one unstructured synoptic question from a choice of two (AO1 = 10 marks, AO2 = 15 marks).
■ Section C: one unstructured synoptic question from a choice of two (AO1 = 10 marks, AO2 = 15 marks).
Component 1
In all your responses, you should demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the following:
■ the meaning and significance of the specified content
■ the influence of these beliefs and teachings on individuals, communities and societies
■ the cause and significance of similarities and differences in beliefs and teachings
■ the approach of philosophy to the study of religion and belief
The term belief(s) includes religious beliefs and non-religious beliefs as appropriate.
You should be able to analyse and evaluate issues arising from the topics studied, and the views and arguments of the scholars prescribed for study. You should also be able to use specialist language and terminology appropriately.
Component 2
In all your responses, you should demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the following:
■ the specified material
■ how the texts specified for study are interpreted and applied
■ the influence of beliefs and teachings on individuals, communities and societies
■ the causes, meanings and significance of similarities and differences in religious thought belief and practice within the religion being studied
■ approaches to the study of religion and belief
You should be able to analyse and evaluate issues arising from the topics studied, and the views and arguments of the scholars prescribed for study. You should also be able to use specialist language and terminology appropriately.
For AS questions the trigger words used are:
■ Explain: this tests knowledge and understanding of teachings or practices. It requires you to identify at least two relevant points and demonstrate understanding by developing them.
■ Assess: make an informed judgement.
For A-level questions the trigger words used are:
■ Examine: investigate closely.
■ Evaluate: this tests evaluation. It requires you to consider different viewpoints and arrive at a judgement.
■ Critically examine and evaluate: this requires you to investigate (e.g. teachings, practices or views) closely and then to reach a judgement.