What is the primary difference between an 'Identify' question and an 'Explain' question?

An 'Identify' question only requires naming a concept for 1 mark, whereas an 'Explain' question requires a 2-mark response consisting of a point and a developed sentence showing understanding.

How does a 3-mark 'Analyse' question differ from a 6-mark 'Analyse' question?

A 3-mark question requires one point developed through knowledge, application, and analysis, while a 6-mark question requires two separate points, each with its own application and analysis chain.

What is the difference between AO1 and AO2 in the context of Paper 2?

AO1 refers to the demonstration of basic knowledge and definitions, while AO2 requires applying that knowledge specifically to the details and context of the provided case study.

What is a common error when answering 'Analyse' questions in Section B?

Students often provide a 'generic' answer that does not reference the specific business in the case study, resulting in a loss of Application (AO2) marks.

What happens if a student provides a list of points for a 2-mark 'Explain' question?

They will likely only receive 1 mark for knowledge; the second mark requires a developed explanation of one point rather than a list of multiple points.

What is a frequent mistake made in calculation-based MCQs?

Candidates often select 'distractor' options that result from common errors, such as forgetting to multiply by 100 for percentages or misidentifying fixed vs. variable costs.

Define 'Chain of Reasoning' in business analysis.

A sequence of logical statements where each point leads to the next (e.g., A causes B, which results in C), used to demonstrate the full impact of a business factor.

What are the three components required for a 3-mark 'Recommend' question?

The response must include a clear decision, a link to the specific business context, and a justification explaining why that decision was made.

What does 'AO3' represent in the marking criteria?

AO3 represents Analysis, which is the ability to break down business information and show logical consequences or relationships between different factors.

Why is Section A (MCQs) included in Paper 2?

It allows the examiner to test a wide range of the syllabus quickly, ensuring students have a broad foundational knowledge of operations, finance, and influences.

Paper 2: MCQ, Short & Medium Responses | OCR GCSE Business

Paper 2: MCQ, Short & Medium Responses

Summary

Paper 2 of the GCSE Business assessment focuses on Operations, Finance, and External Influences, utilizing a mix of objective testing and case-study-based analysis. It evaluates a candidate's ability to recall facts, apply concepts to specific business scenarios, and construct logical arguments to justify business decisions.

1. Assessment Structure and Objectives

Total Weighting: This paper typically accounts for 80 marks, representing 50% of the total qualification, and is divided into two distinct sections.
Section A (Objective Test): Consists of 15 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) worth one mark each, primarily testing breadth of knowledge across the curriculum.
Section B (Case Study Application): Features 65 marks worth of short and medium-response questions based on provided business scenarios.
Assessment Objectives (AOs): The paper measures Knowledge (AO1), Application (AO2), and Analysis (AO3), with higher-mark questions requiring a combination of all three.

Diagram showing the split between Section A (15 marks) and Section B (65 marks) in Paper 2.

2. Section A: Multiple Choice Mechanics

Knowledge Retrieval: Most MCQs test the ability to identify correct definitions, benefits, or drawbacks of specific business concepts.
Data Interpretation: Some questions present small data sets or graphs, requiring candidates to select the correct trend or value.
Quantitative Skills: Calculation-based MCQs require the application of formulas, such as calculating profit margins or break-even points, to select the correct numerical answer.
Distractor Analysis: Each question provides four options; incorrect options (distractors) are often designed to reflect common calculation errors or conceptual misunderstandings.

3. Section B: Short-Answer Response Techniques

Identify and State (1 Mark): These questions require a simple, direct answer, such as a single word or a short phrase, to demonstrate basic knowledge.
Explain (2 Marks): This command word requires a 'point plus development' structure. One mark is awarded for the initial point (Knowledge) and the second for explaining the impact or meaning (Understanding).
The 'Developed Sentence' Rule: For a 2-mark explain question, the response must go beyond a simple list and show a clear link between the concept and its effect on a business.

4. Medium-Response: Analysis and Reasoning

5. Decision Making: Recommend Questions

6. Key Distinctions in Command Words

7. Exam Strategy and Common Pitfalls