Answering 5 and 6 mark extended questions revision notes

Edexcel International GCSE Physics (4PH1), chapter 30: Exam technique, specification point CW. Free lesson.

Watch the video lesson · IGCSE Physics past papers

Extended physics answers earn marks for correct points that address the question and its named situation. Plan key words first, then write them in a sensible order as linked sentences.

What earns marks in a long answer

Extended answers are marked point by point. There are usually more creditable points than marks, so you do not need every possible point. Focus on the question’s situation and use precise physics words. Each correct physics point can earn a mark. Repeating the question does not. Points about the named situation score marks. General facts that ignore it do not. Cover every bullet point in the question. Leaving one out can limit your mark. Use exact terms such as weight and air resistance. “Gravity” and “friction” are too vague here. Bullet points are fine. Long sentences and fancy…

How to plan your answer

A short plan helps you avoid a muddled answer. Use key words rather than writing full sentences during the plan, then turn each point into a sentence with a clear link. For explain, give reasons. For describe, say what happens. Mark every bullet point and the situation named in the question.

How a skydiver’s velocity changes

For a skydiver, explain each stage by comparing weight with air resistance, then stating what happens to her motion. Keep the stages in time order.

Use the correct force names

Precise force names matter because they show that you understand which force acts and in which direction. Weight acts downwards, while air resistance acts upwards on the falling skydiver. Avoid writing “gravity pulls her down and friction slows her”. Gravity is the cause of weight, not the name of the force in this answer. Air resistance is the drag force from the air.

Bullet points can still earn full marks

Marks are given for physics points, not for writing in paragraphs. Bullet points are suitable if each one makes a complete point and includes its link. Keep words such as so or because in each linked point.

Plan an answer about a vacuum flask

For a vacuum flask question, connect each feature to the energy transfer it reduces. These key words form a plan for explaining how the flask keeps a hot drink hot. The vacuum contains no particles, so it prevents conduction and convection across it. Silvered walls reflect infrared, reducing radiation. The stopper is an insulator, so it stops convection out of the top. Plastic supports are poor conductors.