A2: 6EC03 - how to pick up the marks

The following is only for rough guidance for 2015 exam  - remember mark schemes can change each year as questions change; don't over obsess about where the marks can be picked up just get on with answering the questions as best as you can. All the information here is based on the Mark Scheme from 2014.

"students that use standard theory and apply it to the context given can earn the marks efficiently"
http://qualifications.pearson.com/content/dam/pdf/A%20Level/Economics/2013/Exam%20materials/Examiner-report-Unit-3-(6EC03)-June-2014.pdf

6EC03

Multiple Choice - make sure you choose an option, many student forget to. Then to pick up the three use standard methods - define, annotate the diagram, draw a diagram, fill in empty boxes requiring simple calculations, use Knock Outs without repeating the key and remember to say the letter you are saying is wrong. Only use KOs if obvious - overthinking them wastes time.

Data Response
Always try to define - even when no marks awarded it usually helps to ensure you are answering the question.

Always try to use the data - all data reponses should be in context otherwise you may face a cap on the marks you can earn from picking up additional +1's in using data (e.g. numbers or"text" line 12 Extract 1).

Using a diagram at A2 level is normally awarded 2 marks.

Penny marks - remember 6EC03 is like paper 6Ec01 so your are likely to be awarded with 1 mark e.g 4 marks =  define fully 1+1 use data twice +1+1 or complete a claculation with the data e.g 5 firm concentration ratio 2 marks. Outline/Explain two reasons 6 marks =  (1+1+1) + (1+1+1)

There are more evaluation marks at A2 level - 18/49 so spot where and remember how to evaluate.

If 8 marks evaluate two points (2+2e  2+2e - remember you have to work hard at explaining so think of it as 1+1  & 1+1e.)
If 12 marks evaluate three points. 2+2e  2+2e   2+2e
If 16 marks evaluate four points. 2+2e   2+2e   2+2e   2+2e