SENZERE A : THE HUNTER ANSWERING TECHNIQUES

TINOFAMBA NEVANOFAMBA

Paper 1: Section A [70 marks]

Structured Questions
-A Level Business studies paper 1 test on understanding of the subject content, the answers
are expected to be short (shorter than P2 answers), that is short enough to be understood by
the reader or examiner. However, if too short, may not be understood by the reader
/examiner even if the point is very bright
-Answers should be presented in correct manners
Key words /Command words used
Define
Calls for a full sense of the term which must be accurate
A proper definition earns 2 marks and any additional marks are earned through giving any
correct information e.g. features, advantages and example

Explain
Demands 2 marks from a point i.e.
1. You state clearly a point and underline
2. Give more detailed information
Distinguish
If 2 marks, give the definitions
If more than 2 marks, provide other matched differences
Comment
Requires two-sided answer with explanations or shorter descriptions (complete sense)

Special use of Comment

Comment Quantitive data

Give accurate interpretation of the figures in comparison with the basic or standard then the meaning
to the manager.

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Comment on Theory
i. Give a brief explanation of the theory and how could managers make use of this theory
ii. Demand a two-sided answer, you may give sub- headings such as advantages and
disadvantages benefits and cost or use the word however

iii) There is need to indicate when moving to the other side

State, list, outline, name, identify, and give

Mere listing of near writing

Describe
A full sense answer is expected but not explaining

Discuss can be 1 sided or 2 sided

One sided answer is looking for explanations e.g. looking for an importance of something
Two-sided answer gives positive and negative responses e.g. influence or effects
Where not sure just gives two sides

QUESTIONS WITH THREE MARKS

You should give 3 points even if you are giving an explanation

Contextual Questions

Contextual question should be answered in context

• Do not define unasked terms

• Do not copy the question

Paper 2: Essay writing [section B] [75 marks]

An essay is a debate where candidates are supposed to give an argument, analysis, evaluation and
conclusion

- Candidates are expected to spend 35-45 minutes each question

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Presentation of written work
1. A candidate is expected to have a clear understanding of what the question is asking
i.e. candidates must read the question carefully
2. Candidates may write essay plan i.e. a brief outline of what candidates will write
3. Introduction- first statement should give a key definition of key terms of the question
4. Points to be discussed should be highlighted, they examine the direction of the essay
from the introduction hence be able to see whether you have managed to interpret
the essay or not
5. Introduction must be very brief as it may not earn any marks
6. Point identification- each paragraph should start with a point or root where the
examiner will be able to pick the whole idea of paragraph
7. It captures low levels skills of knowledge relating to simple recall of terms and basic
concepts
8. Point development- point needs to be developed to score higher marks. This is
achieved through detailed explanations, estimations and comparisons

Skills tested at a level business studies

1. Comprehension –candidates should show knowledge and understanding, identify points,
show that they can recognise BS terms and concept and able to define and explain but first
they should show the examiner that they know the concept
2. Application- knowledge is essential for BS but it must be applied to problems familiar and
unfamiliar situations
3. The use of real example must be done especially the Zimbabwean situation on business
4. Analysis- candidates must be able to analyse the BS problem and issues
5. Students must show a balanced answer. This is shown by words such as however ,on the
other hand ,advantages and disadvantage ,cost and benefits , merits and demerits .You can
underline the term however to capture the attention of an examiner . A candidate is not
penalised when not required but is bound to lose marks when one side is given instead of two
sided answer
6. Evaluation- at A level BS candidates are expected to justify their answers it is justification
which carries more marks. candidates should weigh the points and show a judgement

Point Development
Evaluation

Analysis 18--25

Application 16-17

Knowledge 13-25

0-4 5-12

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Question Demanding Diagrams
One should draw the diagram and divorce explanation from the diagram provide all the necessary
information which need to be used, don’t give wrong information

How to answer two-sided question

Some question demand positive answers first then negative later. This calls for non-use of the
integrative approach, well some may need to have a positive point followed by negative one. This calls
for the use of integrative approach

How to show judgement

Weigh the cost and benefits then give the position. You may use the following statements and give
judgement

- If this happen then ………………………………………

-or consequently the business will have to……………………………..

-or the extent of the impact at this point is ………………………………………………..

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