Controlled Assessment Unit - CAU Investigative Skills Assessment - ISA

Controlled Assessment Unit - CAU Investigative Skills Assessment - ISA
An ISA is the Controlled Assessment Unit for Science. It is worth 25% of your GCSE. There is no tier of assessment so grades range from U - A*. You only need to complete one ISA per GCSE but there are three available ISA’s for each GCSE. Each ISA is made up of 4 parts Research Section 1 exam Practical Section 2 exam ISA’s are done in lesson time and take approximately 7 lessons. Your best ISA grade will be the mark sent to the exam board.

1 Introduce the context of the investigation 2 Planning and preparation 3 Complete the planning sheet and write a blank table 4 ISA section 1 exam 5 Practical 6 Complete practical and draw a graph of your results 7 ISA section 2 exam

Science A BU1.3 Vitamin C Hypothesis - ‘How much vitamin C is in food depends upon the time the food is cooked for.’ Suggested contexts - preparing diets for hospital patients or malnourished people or showing household cooks how to retain vitamins in cooked food CU1.3 Carbonate Ores Hypothesis - ‘The amount of carbonate in an ore sample can be measured by adding hydrochloric acid to the sample until it stops fizzing.’ Suggested contexts - where to locate a quarry to obtain ore from, or comparing ores to determine the location likely to produce the most metal PU1.3 Reflection Hypothesis - ‘The angle of reflection depends upon the angle of incidence’. Suggested contexts - rear view mirrors in cars, or periscopes.

Additional Science BU2.3 Field work Investigate the effect of a physical factor that may affect the growth of plants in their natural environment Suggested contexts - differences between leaves of one species of plant growing in different light intensities or the distribution of Pleurococcus on trees CU2.3 Electrolysis Investigate a factor that may affect the mass of metal deposited on the negative electrode during electrolysis Suggested contexts - the electroplating of an object such as a watch case, piece of car trim or mobile phone case PU2.3 Resistance Investigate a factor that may affect the resistance of a filament bulb Suggested contexts - filament lamps in homes, car headlamps or torch bulbs

Biology BU2.3 Field work Investigate the effect of a physical factor that may affect the growth of plants in their natural environment Suggested contexts - differences between leaves of one species of plant growing in different light intensities or the distribution of Pleurococcus on trees BU3.3a Stomata Investigate a factor that may affect the number of stomata on leaf surfaces Suggested contexts - why plants normally found in aquatic / marsh conditions do not survive in arid conditions or why roses do not grow well in sandy soil BU3.3b Sweat Investigate a factor that may affect how quickly sweating cools the body Suggested contexts - the problem of overcooling on windy days or the design of materials for use as clothing for athletes or for outdoor activities

Chemistry CU2.3 Electrolysis Investigate a factor that may affect the mass of metal deposited on the negative electrode during electrolysis Suggested contexts - the electroplating of an object such as a watch case, piece of car trim or mobile phone case CU3.3a Sports Injury Pack Investigate a factor that affects the change in temperature when a salt is dissolved in water to produce an endothermic reaction Suggested contexts - manufacturing cool packs for sports injuries, or cooling packs for insulated food carriers CU3.3b Titrations Investigate a factor that affects the neutralisation of an acid Suggested contexts - the use of antacids for indigestion treatments, neutralisation of acid-rain polluted lakes

Physics PU2.3 Resistance Investigate a factor that may affect the resistance of a filament bulb Suggested contexts - filament lamps in homes, car headlamps or torch bulbs PU3.3a Transformers Investigate a factor that may affect the potential difference across the secondary coil of a transformer Suggested contexts - transformers for doorbells, mobile phones or laptops PU3.3b Electromagnets Investigate a factor that may affect the strength of an electromagnet Suggested contexts - electromagnetic cranes, relays or magnetic door bolts

1 Introduce the context of the investigation Context: Your teacher will describe the context in which the investigation is set. Relating the investigation to the context You must research this context and write down how the results of your investigation might be useful, e.g. health and safety developments, energy efficiency, in industry, etc. You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 2 exam: How could the results from your investigation be useful in the context that you have researched? You may use information from your Candidate Research Notes to help you to answer this question. 3 marks Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 An idea from the research has been related to the context 2 An idea from the research has been related to the context and there is a simple explanation of how the idea can be applied and used in the given context 3 An idea from the research has been related to the context and there is a detailed explanation of how this idea can be applied in the given context

1 Introduce the context of the investigation An example of a poor answer An example of a good answer

2 Planning and preparation Research: Once you have been given the context of the investigation you will need to research: one or two possible methods of carrying out the investigation the context that has been set any health and safety issues with the method(s) These research notes must be written on the Candidate Research notes sheet provided by AQA Your research should take no more than 3 hours, including homework. In an Additional Science ISA or Separate Science ISA you will also need to use some of this time to come up with a hypothesis. Your teacher will check your notes before you take the Section 1 exam to ensure you have not included an prohibited information. Remember these are only supposed to be brief notes but they should include information on the factors such as the range, interval and number of repeat readings that you should take, and the variables that need to be controlled.

2 Planning and preparation Hypothesis: For a Science A ISA you will be given the hypothesis For an Additional Science ISA you will need to come up with a hypothesis Research sources List all of the sources you used to carry out your research, such as books, websites or CD-ROMs. Which source was the most useful and why? Method(s) Briefly outline a possible method that could be used to collect useful data to investigate the hypothesis. Think about what you will change, what you will control and what you will measure. Equipment List all the equipment you would need for your method. Think about how you will set your investigation up and what you will need to measure. Select the most suitable equipment to do this. You may want to draw a diagram. Risk assessment issues Record any possible hazards in each method, and the risks they present. Explain how you will reduce these. E.g. acid is an irritant and can cause holes in clothes. To reduce this risk I will wear goggles, wipe up spills and wash my hands. Relating the investigation to the context Your teacher will describe the context in which the investigation is set. You must research this context and write down how the results of your investigation might be useful, e.g. health and safety developments, energy efficiency, in industry, etc.

3 Complete the planning sheet and write a blank table Producing a blank table: You will be required to independently produce a blank table for your results. This is done under exam conditions once the research notes have been completed and before you sit your Section 1 exam The table should be able to accommodate everything that the you are going to measure and record during the investigation. The table should include appropriate headings and units. Marks Guidance No table or a table with incomplete headings or units for the measured variables. Fewer than half of the required elements are present. 1 A table with incomplete headings or units for the measured variables. At least half of the required elements should be present. 2 Correct headings and units present for all measured variables. Independent variable (units) Dependent variable (units) Test 1 Test 2 Test 3 Mean You may need to include additional information (e.g. start temp, end temp and change in temp).

3 Complete the planning sheet and write a blank table All these tables scored full marks

4 ISA section 1 exam – Science A Section 1 Exam: Up to 45 minutes is allowed for this. The test may be taken in the normal teaching room, provided that you can be accommodated in such a way as to prevent any copying or unauthorised collaboration. However the test will usually take place in the hall, dance studio or drama studio depending on their availability. If you normally have a reader, extra time, scribe etc. for exams then you will have the same arrangements made for the ISA exam. Section 1 of the ISA will contain questions about the methods that you have researched and is worth 20 marks of the overall 50 allocated to the Controlled Assessment. You may use your Candidate Research notes sheet, which you filled in during your research. Section 1 Exam: There are normally 5 questions: Name two sources you used and analyse their usefulness 3 marks Name a control variable and outline a preliminary investigation to find a suitable value for this variable Describe your plan 9 marks This question could be on a variety of different topics relating to the idea “what makes a good investigation” - some examples are given in this guide Submit the blank table you have drawn for your results 2 marks

4 ISA section 1 exam – Science A Research sources: List all of the sources you used to carry out your research, such as books, websites or CD-ROMs. Which source was the most useful and why? You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 1 exam: Think about the research that you did to find out how to test this hypothesis. Identify two sources that you used for your research. Which of these sources was the more useful? Why was this source better than the other source? 3 marks Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 Two relevant sources are identified 2 Two relevant sources are clearly identified and the usefulness of one of the sources is commented on 3 Two relevant sources are clearly identified and the usefulness of both sources is explained and a comparison made Additional marking guidance: A clearly identified source is referred to by title and author or for websites at least the name of the website should be quoted If candidates have taken part in peer discussion as part of their research, simply stating this is not sufficient to qualify for quoting a source. Similarly reference to their own notes or exercise book alone is insufficient. A clear comment on only one of the sources ay be sufficient to gain 2 marks if the answer implies a comment on the other source.

4 ISA section 1 exam – Science A An example of a good answer

4 ISA section 1 exam – Science A Method(s): Briefly outline a possible method that could be used to collect useful data to investigate the hypothesis. Think about what you will change, what you will control and what you will measure. You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 1 exam: In this investigation, you will need to control some of the variables. Write down one variable that will need to be controlled. Describe briefly how you would do a preliminary investigation to find a suitable value to use for this variable. You should also explain how the results of this preliminary investigation will help you to decide on the best value for this variable. 3 marks Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 A suitable control variable is stated. 2 Only one value to be investigated in the preliminary experiment is suggested. The dependent variable is stated, but details concerning its measurement are incomplete. 3 The limits of the range to be investigated in the preliminary experiment are appropriate. A statement concerning how the dependent variable values obtained could be used to determine the best value for the control variable has been made.

4 ISA section 1 exam – Science A You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 1 exam: In this question you will be assessed on using good English, organising information clearly and using specialist terms where appropriate. You should include: the equipment that you plan to use From the research that you have done, describe in detail how you are going to do your investigation. how you will use the equipment the measurements that you are going to make how you will make it a fair test a risk assessment marks 0 marks 1, 2 & 3 marks 4, 5 & 6 marks 7, 8 & 9 marks Equipment No creditworthy response Some of the necessary equipment is stated. Most of the necessary equipment is stated. Method The method described is weak but shows some understanding of the sequence of an investigation. The method described will enable valid results to be collected. Measurements The measurements to be made are stated. The measurements to be made are stated and a at least one control variable is given. The measurements to be made are stated and the significant control variables are clearly identified, with details of how they will be monitored or controlled. Risk assessment An appropriate hazard is identified, but the corresponding risk assessment and control measure is weak or absent. Any significant hazards are identified, together with a corresponding control measure but the risk assessment is weak or absent. Any significant hazards are identified, together with an assessment of the associated risks and corresponding control measures. Organisation The answer is poorly organised, with almost no specialist terms and little or no detail given. The answer has some structure and organisation, use of specialist terms has been attempted but not always correctly, and some detail is given. The answer is coherent and written in an organised, logical sequence, containing a range of relevant specialist terms used correctly. SPaG The answer shows very weak spelling, punctuation and grammar. The answer shows reasonable spelling, punctuation and grammar although there may still be some errors. The answer shows almost faultless spelling, punctuation and grammar.

4 ISA section 1 exam – Science A Method(s): Briefly outline a possible method that could be used to collect useful data to investigate the hypothesis. Think about what you will change, what you will control and what you will measure. You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 1 exam: In your research you will have found other methods you could have used Briefly outline one other method you could have used. Explain why you chose not to do this method 3 marks Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 An alternative method is outlined briefly although some of the necessary steps may not be clear OR A suggestion is given as to why this alternative method would not have been as good as the one chosen 2 3 An alternative method is outlined in sufficient detail so that the necessary steps are clear A sensible explanation is given as to why this alternative method would not have been as good as the chosen one

4 ISA section 1 exam – Science A An example of a good answer An example of a poor answer

4 ISA section 1 exam – Science A Method(s): Briefly outline a possible method that could be used to collect useful data to investigate the hypothesis. Think about what you will change, what you will control and what you will measure. You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 1 exam: When you have completed your investigation, you will be asked to compare your results with others. Explain the advantages of comparing your results with the results of others. 3 marks Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 Allows you to check your results OR calculate a more accurate mean 2 Enables you to check your results with those of others to see if there are any similarities or differences With more results you are able to calculate a more accurate mean and minimize the effect of random errors 3 Enables reproducibility to be confirmed

4 ISA section 1 exam – Science A Risk assessment issues: Record any possible hazards in each method, and the risks they present. Explain how you will reduce these. E.g. acid is an irritant and can cause holes in clothes. To reduce this risk I will wear goggles, wipe up spills and wash my hands. You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 1 exam: Think about the hazards in your investigation. Describe one hazard in your investigation and say how you would reduce any risks. 3 marks Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 An appropriate hazard is identified, but the corresponding risk assessment and control measure is weak or absent 2 Any significant hazards are identified, together with a corresponding control measure but the risk assessment is weak or absent 3 Any significant hazards are identified, together with an assessment of the associated risks and corresponding control measures

4 ISA section 1 exam – Science A Producing a blank table: You will be required to independently produce a blank table for your results. This is done under exam conditions once the research notes have been completed and before you sit your Section 1 exam The table should be able to accommodate everything that the you are going to measure and record during the investigation. The table should include appropriate headings and units. Marks Guidance No table or a table with incomplete headings or units for the measured variables. Fewer than half of the required elements are present. 1 A table with incomplete headings or units for the measured variables. At least half of the required elements should be present. 2 Correct headings and units present for all measured variables. Independent variable (units) Dependent variable (units) Test 1 Test 2 Test 3 Mean You may need to include additional information (e.g. start temp, end temp and change in temp).

4 ISA section 1 exam – Science A All these tables scored full marks

4 ISA section 1 exam – Additional / Separate Science Section 1 Exam: Up to 45 minutes is allowed for this. The test may be taken in the normal teaching room, provided that you can be accommodated in such a way as to prevent any copying or unauthorised collaboration. However the test will usually take place in the hall, dance studio or drama studio depending on their availability. If you normally have a reader, extra time, scribe etc. for exams then you will have the same arrangements made for the ISA exam. Section 1 of the ISA will contain questions about the methods that you have researched and is worth 20 marks of the overall 50 allocated to the Controlled Assessment. You may use your Candidate Research notes sheet, which you filled in during your research. Section 1 Exam: There are normally 5 questions: Write down and explain your hypothesis 3 marks Name two sources you used and analyse their usefulness Describe your plan 9 marks This question could be on a variety of different topics relating to the idea “what makes a good investigation” - some examples are given in this guide Submit the blank table you have drawn for your results 2 marks

4 ISA section 1 exam – Additional / Separate Science Hypothesis: For a Additional Science or Separates Science ISA you need to come up with your own hypothesis that fits the topic you have been asked to investigate You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 1 exam: Write down your hypothesis Explain why you made this hypothesis 3 marks Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 There is a hypothesis that, by implication, identifies the independent and dependent variables, but there is no explanation. 2 There is a hypothesis that, by implication, identifies the independent and dependent variables, however, the explanation for this hypothesis is unclear. 3 There is a hypothesis that, by implication, identifies the independent and dependent variables, The hypothesis is explained clearly.

4 ISA section 1 exam – Additional / Separate Science An example of a good answer

4 ISA section 1 exam – Additional / Separate Science Research sources: List all of the sources you used to carry out your research, such as books, websites or CD-ROMs. Which source was the most useful and why? You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 1 exam: Think about the research that you did to find out how to test this hypothesis. Identify two sources that you used for your research. Which of these sources was the more useful? Why was this source better than the other source? 3 marks Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 Two relevant sources are identified 2 Two relevant sources are clearly identified and the usefulness of one of the sources is commented on 3 Two relevant sources are clearly identified and the usefulness of both sources is explained and a comparison made Additional marking guidance: A clearly identified source is referred to by title and author or for websites at least the name of the website should be quoted If candidates have taken part in peer discussion as part of their research, simply stating this is not sufficient to qualify for quoting a source. Similarly reference to their own notes or exercise book alone is insufficient. A clear comment on only one of the sources ay be sufficient to gain 2 marks if the answer implies a comment on the other source.

4 ISA section 1 exam – Additional / Separate Science You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 1 exam: In this question you will be assessed on using good English, organising information clearly and using specialist terms where appropriate. You should include: the equipment that you plan to use From the research that you have done, describe in detail how you are going to do your investigation. how you will use the equipment the measurements that you are going to make how you will make it a fair test a risk assessment marks 0 marks 1, 2 & 3 marks 4, 5 & 6 marks 7, 8 & 9 marks Equipment No creditworthy response Some of the necessary equipment is stated. Most of the necessary equipment is stated. Method The method described is weak but shows some understanding of the sequence of an investigation. The method described will enable valid results to be collected. Measurements The measurements to be made are stated. The measurements to be made are stated and a at least one control variable is given. The measurements to be made are stated and the significant control variables are clearly identified, with details of how they will be monitored or controlled. Risk assessment An appropriate hazard is identified, but the corresponding risk assessment and control measure is weak or absent. Any significant hazards are identified, together with a corresponding control measure but the risk assessment is weak or absent. Any significant hazards are identified, together with an assessment of the associated risks and corresponding control measures. Organisation The answer is poorly organised, with almost no specialist terms and little or no detail given. The answer has some structure and organisation, use of specialist terms has been attempted but not always correctly, and some detail is given. The answer is coherent and written in an organised, logical sequence, containing a range of relevant specialist terms used correctly. SPaG The answer shows very weak spelling, punctuation and grammar. The answer shows reasonable spelling, punctuation and grammar although there may still be some errors. The answer shows almost faultless spelling, punctuation and grammar.

4 ISA section 1 exam – Additional / Separate Science Method(s): Briefly outline a possible method that could be used to collect useful data to investigate the hypothesis. Think about what you will change, what you will control and what you will measure. You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 1 exam: In your research you will have found other methods you could have used Briefly outline one other method you could have used. Explain why you chose not to do this method 3 marks Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 An alternative method is outlined briefly although some of the necessary steps may not be clear OR A suggestion is given as to why this alternative method would not have been as good as the one chosen 2 3 An alternative method is outlined in sufficient detail so that the necessary steps are clear A sensible explanation is given as to why this alternative method would not have been as good as the chosen one

4 ISA section 1 exam – Additional / Separate Science An example of a good answer An example of a poor answer

4 ISA section 1 exam – Additional / Separate Science Method(s): Briefly outline a possible method that could be used to collect useful data to investigate the hypothesis. Think about what you will change, what you will control and what you will measure. You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 1 exam: When you have completed your investigation, you will be asked to compare your results with others. Explain the advantages of comparing your results with the results of others. 3 marks Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 Allows you to check your results OR calculate a more accurate mean 2 Enables you to check your results with those of others to see if there are any similarities or differences With more results you are able to calculate a more accurate mean and minimize the effect of random errors 3 Enables reproducibility to be confirmed

4 ISA section 1 exam – Additional / Separate Science An example of a good answer An example of a poor answer

4 ISA section 1 exam – Additional / Separate Science Risk assessment issues: Record any possible hazards in each method, and the risks they present. Explain how you will reduce these. E.g. acid is an irritant and can cause holes in clothes. To reduce this risk I will wear goggles, wipe up spills and wash my hands. You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 1 exam: Think about the hazards in your investigation. Describe one hazard in your investigation and say how you would reduce any risks. 3 marks Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 An appropriate hazard is identified, but the corresponding risk assessment and control measure is weak or absent 2 Any significant hazards are identified, together with a corresponding control measure but the risk assessment is weak or absent 3 Any significant hazards are identified, together with an assessment of the associated risks and corresponding control measures

4 ISA section 1 exam – Additional / Separate Science Producing a blank table: You will be required to independently produce a blank table for your results. This is done under exam conditions once the research notes have been completed and before you sit your Section 1 exam The table should be able to accommodate everything that the you are going to measure and record during the investigation. The table should include appropriate headings and units. Marks Guidance No table or a table with incomplete headings or units for the measured variables. Fewer than half of the required elements are present. 1 A table with incomplete headings or units for the measured variables. At least half of the required elements should be present. 2 Correct headings and units present for all measured variables. Independent variable (units) Dependent variable (units) Test 1 Test 2 Test 3 Mean You may need to include additional information (e.g. start temp, end temp and change in temp).

4 ISA section 1 exam – Additional / Separate Science All these tables scored full marks

5 Practical Carrying out the practical: You can use the method and results table you came up with in Section 1 but it is likely that you will be provided with a method to follow and results table to fill in so class results can be collected. There is no specified time limit for the practical work, although it is anticipated that most experiments should be capable of being completed within a one hour lesson. If necessary however, the experiment may be continued over a number of lessons. Any paperwork, e.g. result tables, will be collected in at the end of the first lesson, and returned to the you at the start of the next lesson. All results will be pooled together in the second lesson so everyone has a class set of results. Categoric data: Categoric values have values that are labels. E.g. names of plants or types of material. You would normally use a bar chart to represent this data. Continuous data: Continuous values can have values (called a quantity) that can be given a magnitude either by counting (as in the case of number of shrimp) or by the measurement (e.g. light intensity, flow rate etc.) You would normally use a line graph to represent this data.

6 Complete practical and draw a graph of your results Producing a graph or bar chart: You will be required to draw a graph or bar chart of your results Marks Answer Additional guidance 1 X axis: suitable scales chosen and labelled with quantity and units. Scale should be such that the plots occupy at least one third of each axis. Accept axes reversed. Y axis: suitable scales chosen and labelled with quantity and units. It may not always be necessary to show the origin. Points or bars plotted correctly to within ± 1 mm. Allow one plotting error out of each 5 points/bars plotted. Suitable line drawn on graph or bars correctly labelled on bar chart. Allow error carried forward from incorrect points. If wrong type of graph / chart, maximum 3 marks. If the independent variable is: categoric, a bar chart should be drawn continuous, a best fit line should be drawn N.B. If no line is possible because there is no correlation, candidates should state this on the graph to gain the mark Title: This should describe what your graph shows Line of best fit: This goes roughly through the middle of all the scatter points on a graph. The closer the points are to the line of best fit the stronger we can say the correlation is. It can be a curve. Dependent variable (units) Anomalous results: Put a ring round any outliers to show you know they do not if the pattern. Jagged line: These indicate a broken scale. A broken scale is used when values close to 0 are not required. Independent variable (units)

6 Complete practical and draw a graph of your results All these graphs scored full marks

7 ISA section 2 exam – Science A Section 2 Exam: Up to 50 minutes is allowed for this. The test may be taken in the normal teaching room, provided that you can be accommodated in such a way as to prevent any copying or unauthorised collaboration. However the test will usually take place in the hall, dance studio or drama studio depending on their availability. If you normally have a reader, extra time, scribe etc. for exams then you will have the same arrangements made for the ISA exam. Section 1 of the ISA will contain questions concerning conclusions and evaluation and is worth 30 marks of the overall 50 allocated to the Controlled Assessment. You may use your Candidate Research notes sheet, which you filled in during your research. You will also be given a data sheet with 4 case studies. Section 2 Exam: There are normally 4 questions, some of these questions are made up of more than one part: Analyse and evaluate your results What were the variables in the investigation you did? - e) These questions are on a variety of topics and may vary in number from ISA to ISA Analyse and evaluate the data given in the case studies Sketch graph Explain whether or not the results on the Secondary data sheet support the given hypothesis Analysis of Case Study 4 This is only a guide there may be more questions based on the case studies How could the results from your investigation be useful in the context that you have researched? 3 marks Submit the graph or bar chart you have drawn of your results 4 marks

7 ISA section 2 exam – Science A Variables: These are physical, chemical or biological quantities or characteristics State, give, name, write down: Only a short answer is required, not an explanation or a description. Often it can be answered with a single word, phrase or sentence. If the question asks the you to state, give, or write down one (or two etc) examples, they should write down only the specified number of answers, or they may lose marks for any wrong examples given. You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 2 exam: What were the variables in the investigation that you did? The independent variable was The dependent variable was One control variable was 3 marks Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 Any one variable correctly identified 2 Any two variables correctly identified 3 Any three variables correctly identified

7 ISA section 2 exam – Science A An example of a good answer An example of a good answer

7 ISA section 2 exam – Science A Resolution: This is the smallest change in quantity being measured (input) of a measuring instrument that gives a perceptible change in the reading. Explain: You should make something clear, or state the reasons for something happening. The points in the answer must be linked coherently and logically. The answer should not be a simple list of reasons. You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 2 exam: Think about the way in which you took your measurements. Resolution means the smallest scale division on the measuring instrument that you were using. What was the resolution of your measurement for… Do you think that this resolution was appropriate for this investigation? Explain your answer 3 marks Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 A correct value for the resolution is given OR A sensible but incorrect value is given for the resolution, with a correct statement appropriate to the resolution they have given. 2 A correct statement as to whether or not the resolution was appropriate is given, but the explanation is not clear 3 A correct statement as to whether or not the resolution was appropriate is given with a clear explanation

7 ISA section 2 exam – Science A Repeatable: A measurement is repeatable if the original experimenter repeats the investigation using the same method and obtains the same results. Explain: You should make something clear, or state the reasons for something happening. The points in the answer must be linked coherently and logically. The answer should not be a simple list of reasons. You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 2 exam: Look at your results. Did you repeat any of the results in your investigation? Explain why you did or did not repeat any of your results. You explanation should include examples from your results. 3 marks Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 There is a correct statement regarding whether or not any measurements were repeated There is mention of the presence or absence or anomalous results 2 There is reference to either anomalous results or to systematic or random uncertainties 3 There is a correct statement regarding whether or not any measurements were repeated and a clear indication of which results were repeated There is reference to either anomalous results or to systematic or random uncertainties, and the effects that these would cause

7 ISA section 2 exam – Science A Range: The maximum and minimum values of the independent or dependent variables; important in ensuring that any pattern is detected. Explain: You should make something clear, or state the reasons for something happening. The points in the answer must be linked coherently and logically. The answer should not be a simple list of reasons. You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 2 exam: In your investigation you changed the concentration / mass of X. What was the range of this variable? Give the units. The range was from ……… to ……… If you had been able to use another value of this variable, either within or outside this range what value would you have chosen? Give a reason for your answer 3 marks Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 At least one end of the range is correctly stated. Another value of the independent variable is suggested, although it may not be appropriate. 2 The range is correctly stated, according to the candidate’s own results. Another appropriate value of the independent variable is suggested. The reason for the additional value is unclear or inappropriate. 3 The reason for the additional value is clear and appropriate.

7 ISA section 2 exam – Science A Hypothesis: A proposal intended to explain certain facts or observations Explain: You should make something clear, or state the reasons for something happening. The points in the answer must be linked coherently and logically. The answer should not be a simple list of reasons. You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 2 exam: The hypothesis that you were given before you started the investigation was … Do your results support this hypothesis? Explain your answer. 3 marks Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 A simple correct statement is made as to whether or not the results support the hypothesis with an attempt at an explanation 2 A simple correct statement is made as to whether or not the results support the hypothesis and an explanation that includes a simple description of a correctly identified pattern or lack of pattern 3 A simple correct statement is made as to whether or not the results support the hypothesis and an explanation that includes a detailed description of a correctly identified pattern or lack of pattern.

7 ISA section 2 exam – Science A Reproducible: A measurement is reproducible if the investigation is repeated by another person, or by using equipment or techniques, and the same results are obtained. Explain: You should make something clear, or state the reasons for something happening. The points in the answer must be linked coherently and logically. The answer should not be a simple list of reasons. Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 A simple statement is made as to whether or not the pattern of the other results is similar to the candidate’s results 2 A simple statement is made as to whether or not the pattern of the other results is similar to the candidate’s results and an explanation is provided using either an example from the other results or a correctly identified pattern 3 A simple statement is made as to whether or not the pattern of the other results is similar to the candidate’s results and a detailed explanation is provided using either; two examples from the other results or a correctly identified and described pattern in the results You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 2 exam: You have been given a set of results obtained by other people. Do these results other results show that this investigation is reproducible? Explain your answer using examples from the results. 3 marks

7 ISA section 2 exam – Science A Repeatable: A measurement is repeatable if the original experimenter repeats the investigation using the same method and obtains the same results. Explain: You should make something clear, or state the reasons for something happening. The points in the answer must be linked coherently and logically. The answer should not be a simple list of reasons. You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 2 exam: If you were to repeat your experiment, would you make any changed to your method? Explain why you would or would not make any changes, using examples from your results. 3 marks Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 Simple appropriate suggestion given as to why changes would be made 2 Simple appropriate suggestion given as to why changes would be made together with examples quoted from the results 3 Simple appropriate suggestion given as to why changes would be made together with examples quoted from the results plus an explanation of why these changes would improve the results

7 ISA section 2 exam – Science A Sketch graph: A line graph, not necessarily on a grid, that shows the general shape of the relationship between two variables. It will not have any points plotted and although the axes should be labelled they may not be scaled. Explain: You should make something clear, or state the reasons for something happening. The points in the answer must be linked coherently and logically. The answer should not be a simple list of reasons. You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 2 exam: You have been given a Secondary Data Sheet that provides results from similar investigations. Draw a sketch graph of the results in Case Study 1. 3 marks Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 Both axes labelled with the variables and units 2 Both axes labelled with the variables and units and an appropriate line drawn

7 ISA section 2 exam – Science A An example of a good answer An example of a good answer

7 ISA section 2 exam – Science A Data: Information, either qualitative or quantitative, that has been collected. Explain You should make something clear, or state the reasons for something happening. The points in the answer must be linked coherently and logically. The answer should not be a simple list of reasons. You may also be asked a question similar to this in the section 2 exam Explain whether or not the results on the Secondary Data Sheet support the hypothesis you were given. To gain full marks your explanation should include appropriate examples from the results in Case studies 1, 2 and 3. 3 marks You may also be asked a similar question on a Additional Science or Separate Science ISA Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 A clear statement is made that Case study 1 supports the hypothesis and a simple correct statement is made about one of the other case studies 2 A clear statement is made that Case study 1 supports the hypothesis and correct statements are made about both Case studies 2 and 3 supported by a more detailed explanation of one of them. 3 A clear statement is made that Case study 1 supports the hypothesis and correct statements are made about both Case studies 2 and 3 supported by a more detailed explanation of both of them.

7 ISA section 2 exam – Science A Relationship: When one variable has an effect on another variable Explain; You should make something clear, or state the reasons for something happening. The points in the answer must be linked coherently and logically. The answer should not be a simple list of reasons. You may also be asked a question similar to this in the section 2 exam Use Case Study 4 to answer the question. What is the relationship between X and Y? Explain how well the information in Case Study 4 supports your answer. 3 marks The content of the question and mark scheme will vary depending on the ISA. Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 There is a statement that the higher the specific heat capacity the smaller the temperature rise produced in the substance 2 There is a statement that the higher the specific heat capacity the smaller the temperature rise produced in the substance and some data is quoted to support this 3 There is a realisation that any discerned relationship can only be an approximation using the data in the table, as the data contains some anomalies

7 ISA section 2 exam – Science A Valid conclusion: A conclusion supported by valid data, obtained from an appropriate experimental design and based on sound reasoning. Explain; You should make something clear, or state the reasons for something happening. The points in the answer must be linked coherently and logically. The answer should not be a simple list of reasons. You may also be asked a question similar to this in the section 2 exam Look at Case Study 4. A X who saw the results advised … Do you agree with this advice? Explain your answer. 3 marks The context of the question and mark scheme will vary depending on the ISA. Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 A comment is made as to whether the advice is supported or not There is a simple statement that uses information from the graph to support the comment 2 There is a statement that uses information from the graph to support the comment A clear advantage of using “Ger-off” or a clear disadvantage of using “Ger-off” is stated 3 There is a statement that uses information from the graph to support the comment A clear advantage of using “Ger-off” and a clear disadvantage of using “Ger-off” is stated

7 ISA section 2 exam – Science A Hypothesis: A proposal intended to explain certain facts or observations Explain: You should make something clear, or state the reasons for something happening. The points in the answer must be linked coherently and logically. The answer should not be a simple list of reasons. You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 2 exam: Look at Case Study 4. To what extent do the results support the hypothesis you were given? 3 marks The context of the mark scheme will vary depending on the ISA. Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 Increasing the mass of aggregate increases the force needed to break the beam initially, but the strength then declines as more aggregate is added. 2 The maximum strength of the beam is quoted. OR A comment is made regarding the difference in gradient of the graph before and after the peak. 3 AND

7 ISA section 2 exam – Science A Context: Your teacher will describe the context in which the investigation is set. Relating the investigation to the context You must research this context and write down how the results of your investigation might be useful, e.g. health and safety developments, energy efficiency, in industry, etc. You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 2 exam: How could the results from your investigation be useful in the context that you have researched? You may use information from your Candidate Research Notes to help you to answer this question. 3 marks Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 An idea from the research has been related to the context 2 An idea from the research has been related to the context and there is a simple explanation of how the idea can be applied and used in the given context 3 An idea from the research has been related to the context and there is a detailed explanation of how this idea can be applied in the given context

7 ISA section 2 exam – Science A An example of a poor answer An example of a good answer

7 ISA section 2 exam – Science A Producing a graph or bar chart: You will be required to draw a graph or bar chart of your results Marks Answer Additional guidance 1 X axis: suitable scales chosen and labelled with quantity and units. Scale should be such that the plots occupy at least one third of each axis. Accept axes reversed. Y axis: suitable scales chosen and labelled with quantity and units. It may not always be necessary to show the origin. Points or bars plotted correctly to within ± 1 mm. Allow one plotting error out of each 5 points/bars plotted. Suitable line drawn on graph or bars correctly labelled on bar chart. Allow error carried forward from incorrect points. If wrong type of graph / chart, maximum 3 marks. If the independent variable is: categoric, a bar chart should be drawn continuous, a best fit line should be drawn N.B. If no line is possible because there is no correlation, candidates should state this on the graph to gain the mark Title: This should describe what your graph shows Line of best fit: This goes roughly through the middle of all the scatter points on a graph. The closer the points are to the line of best fit the stronger we can say the correlation is. It can be a curve. Dependent variable (units) Anomalous results: Put a ring round any outliers to show you know they do not if the pattern. Jagged line: These indicate a broken scale. A broken scale is used when values close to 0 are not required. Independent variable (units)

7 ISA section 2 exam – Science A All these graphs scored full marks

7 ISA section 2 exam – Additional / Separate Science Section 2 Exam: Up to 50 minutes is allowed for this. The test may be taken in the normal teaching room, provided that you can be accommodated in such a way as to prevent any copying or unauthorised collaboration. However the test will usually take place in the hall, dance studio or drama studio depending on their availability. If you normally have a reader, extra time, scribe etc. for exams then you will have the same arrangements made for the ISA exam. Section 1 of the ISA will contain questions concerning conclusions and evaluation and is worth 30 marks of the overall 50 allocated to the Controlled Assessment. You may use your Candidate Research notes sheet, which you filled in during your research. You will also be given a data sheet with 4 case studies. Section 2 Exam: There are normally 4 questions, some of these questions are made up of more than one part: Analyse and evaluate your results Do your results support your hypothesis? - e) These questions are on a variety of topics and may vary in number from ISA to ISA Analyse and evaluate the data given in the case studies Sketch graph Explain whether or not the results on the Secondary data sheet support the given hypothesis Analysis of Case Study 4 This is only a guide there may be more questions based on the case studies How could the results from your investigation be useful in the context that you have researched? 3 marks Submit the graph or bar chart you have drawn of your results 4 marks

7 ISA section 2 exam – Additional / Separate Science Hypothesis: A proposal intended to explain certain facts or observations Explain: You should make something clear, or state the reasons for something happening. The points in the answer must be linked coherently and logically. The answer should not be a simple list of reasons. You may also be asked a question similar to this in the section 2 exam Do your results support the hypothesis that you investigated? You should use any pattern that you can see in you results to support your answer. You should include examples from your results 3 marks Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 A simple correct statement is made as to whether or not the results support the hypothesis with an attempt at an explanation 2 A simple correct statement is made as to whether or not the results support the hypothesis and an explanation that includes a simple description of a correctly identified pattern or lack of pattern 3 A simple correct statement is made as to whether or not the results support the hypothesis and an explanation that includes a detailed description of a correctly identified pattern or lack of pattern.

7 ISA section 2 exam – Additional / Separate Science Anomalous: A result that does not fit into a common, familiar, or expected type or pattern Explain: You should make something clear, or state the reasons for something happening. The points in the answer must be linked coherently and logically. The answer should not be a simple list of reasons. You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 2 exam: Did you get any anomalous results? Explain your answer. Your explanation should include examples from your results. 3 marks Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 There is a correct statement as to whether or not there are any anomalous results 2 There is a correct statement as to whether or not there are any anomalous results and a statement or implication that anomalous results are ones that do not fit the pattern. 3 Some examples from the results are given to support this, eg by specifying results that are considered to be anomalous or by referring to the fact that, eg all results are very close to a line of best fit.

7 ISA section 2 exam – Additional / Separate Science Reproducible: A measurement is reproducible if the investigation is repeated by another person, or by using equipment or techniques, and the same results are obtained. Explain: You should make something clear, or state the reasons for something happening. The points in the answer must be linked coherently and logically. The answer should not be a simple list of reasons. You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 2 exam: Reproducibility is important in experiments. Do you think that your results are reproducible by other people? Use examples from your results to explain the reason for your answer. 3 marks Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 A statement is made as to whether or not the results are likely to be reproducible, with a reason stated. 2 A statement is made as to whether or not the results are likely to be reproducible, with a reason stated and an explanation is given. 3 There is a detailed explanation supported by at least one example from the results .

7 ISA section 2 exam – Additional / Separate Science Repeatable: A measurement is repeatable if the original experimenter repeats the investigation using the same method and obtains the same results. Explain: You should recall some facts, events or process in an accurate way - for example an experiment you have done. You may need to give an account of what something looked like, or what happened, eg a trend in some data. Accuracy: A measurement result is considered accurate if it is judged to be close to the true value. Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 A statement is made that a mean should be calculated. 2 A statement is made that a mean should be calculated by adding the results together and dividing by the number of values. 3 A statement is made that a mean should be calculated, by adding the results together and dividing by the number of values. A statement is made that either anomalous results are discarded before calculating a mean or a graph is plotted and a best fit line is drawn ignoring anomalous points You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 2 exam: Describe in detail how you could use repeated readings to obtain more accurate results. 3 marks

7 ISA section 2 exam – Science A Range: The maximum and minimum values of the independent or dependent variables; important in ensuring that any pattern is detected. Explain: You should make something clear, or state the reasons for something happening. The points in the answer must be linked coherently and logically. The answer should not be a simple list of reasons. You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 2 exam: What was the independent variable in the investigation that you did? What was the range of the independent variable? The range was from ……… to ……… Explain why this was or was not a suitable range. 3 marks Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 At least one end of the range is correctly stated Another value of the independent variable is suggested, although it may not be appropriate 2 The range is correctly stated, according to the candidate’s own results Another appropriate value of the independent variable is suggested The reason for the additional value is unclear or inappropriate 3 The reason for the additional value is clear and appropriate

7 ISA section 2 exam – Additional / Separate Science An example of a poor answer

7 ISA section 2 exam – Additional / Separate Science Resolution: This is the smallest change in quantity being measured (input) of a measuring instrument that gives a perceptible change in the reading. Explain: You should make something clear, or state the reasons for something happening. The points in the answer must be linked coherently and logically. The answer should not be a simple list of reasons. You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 2 exam: Resolution refers to the smallest scale division of a measuring instrument. What was the resolution of the device that you used to measure the timing of the reaction? Do you think that this resolution was appropriate for this measurement? Explain your answer. 3 marks Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 A correct value for the resolution is given OR A sensible but incorrect value is given for the resolution, with a correct statement appropriate to the resolution they have given. 2 AND A correct statement as to whether or not the resolution was appropriate is given, but the explanation is not clear 3 A correct statement as to whether or not the resolution was appropriate is given with a clear explanation

7 ISA section 2 exam – Additional / Separate Science Uncertainty: The interval within which the true value can be expected to lie, within a given level of confidence or probability. Explain: You should make something clear, or state the reasons for something happening. The points in the answer must be linked coherently and logically. The answer should not be a simple list of reasons. You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 2 exam: Most investigations contain errors or uncertainties. What do you think was the cause of the largest error or uncertainty in your investigation? What you could do to reduce the size of this error if you were to repeat the investigation? Explain your answer. 3 marks Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 There is a statement as to the possible cause of the largest error. 2 An appropriate suggestion is made regarding how the size of this error might be reduced. 3 An appropriate suggestion is made regarding how the size of this error might be reduced. together with an explanation regarding how the suggestion might lead to a reduction in the size of the error.

7 ISA section 2 exam – Additional / Separate Science Sketch graph: A line graph, not necessarily on a grid, that shows the general shape of the relationship between two variables. It will not have any points plotted and although the axes should be labelled they may not be scaled. Explain: You should make something clear, or state the reasons for something happening. The points in the answer must be linked coherently and logically. The answer should not be a simple list of reasons. You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 2 exam: You have been given a Secondary Data Sheet that provides results from similar investigations. Draw a sketch graph of the results in Case Study 1. 3 marks Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 Both axes labelled with the variables and units 2 Both axes labelled with the variables and units and an appropriate line drawn

7 ISA section 2 exam – Additional / Separate Science An example of a good answer An example of a good answer

7 ISA section 2 exam – Additional / Separate Science Hypothesis: A proposal intended to explain certain facts or observations Explain: You should make something clear, or state the reasons for something happening. The points in the answer must be linked coherently and logically. The answer should not be a simple list of reasons. You may also be asked a question similar to this in the section 2 exam X investigates the following hypothesis … Explain whether or not the results in Case Studies 1, 2 and 3 support this hypothesis. To gain full marks your explanation should include appropriate examples from the results in Case studies 1, 2 and 3. 3 marks Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 A simple correct statement is made about at least two of the Case Studies 1, 2 and 3, as to whether or not they support the hypothesis. 2 Correct statements are made Case Studies 1, 2 and 3, supported by a more detailed explanation of one of them. 3 Correct statements are made Case Studies 1, 2 and 3, supported by a more detailed explanation of both Case Studies 2 and 3.

7 ISA section 2 exam – Science A Hypothesis: A proposal intended to explain certain facts or observations Explain: You should make something clear, or state the reasons for something happening. The points in the answer must be linked coherently and logically. The answer should not be a simple list of reasons. You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 2 exam: Look at Case Study 4. To what extent do the results shown support the manufacturer's hypothesis? Explain your answer. 3 marks Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 There is a simple statement saying whether or not the results in Case study 4 support the manufacturer's hypothesis and this is supported by some qualitative information quoted. 2 There is a simple statement saying whether or not the results in Case study 4 support the manufacturer's hypothesis and this is supported by some quantitative information quoted. 3 There is also a statement that makes clear the limitations of the data in supporting the hypothesis.

7 ISA section 2 exam – Additional / Separate Science Context: Your teacher will describe the context in which the investigation is set. Relating the investigation to the context You must research this context and write down how the results of your investigation might be useful, e.g. health and safety developments, energy efficiency, in industry, etc. You may be asked a question similar to this in the section 2 exam: How could the results from your investigation be useful in the context that you have researched? You may use information from your Candidate Research Notes to help you to answer this question. 3 marks Marks Guidance No credit worthy response 1 An idea from the research has been related to the context 2 An idea from the research has been related to the context and there is a simple explanation of how the idea can be applied and used in the given context 3 An idea from the research has been related to the context and there is a detailed explanation of how this idea can be applied in the given context

7 ISA section 2 exam – Additional / Separate Science An example of a poor answer An example of a good answer

7 ISA section 2 exam – Additional / Separate Science Producing a graph or bar chart: You will be required to draw a graph or bar chart of your results Marks Answer Additional guidance 1 X axis: suitable scales chosen and labelled with quantity and units. Scale should be such that the plots occupy at least one third of each axis. Accept axes reversed. Y axis: suitable scales chosen and labelled with quantity and units. It may not always be necessary to show the origin. Points or bars plotted correctly to within ± 1 mm. Allow one plotting error out of each 5 points/bars plotted. Suitable line drawn on graph or bars correctly labelled on bar chart. Allow error carried forward from incorrect points. If wrong type of graph / chart, maximum 3 marks. If the independent variable is: categoric, a bar chart should be drawn continuous, a best fit line should be drawn N.B. If no line is possible because there is no correlation, candidates should state this on the graph to gain the mark Title: This should describe what your graph shows Line of best fit: This goes roughly through the middle of all the scatter points on a graph. The closer the points are to the line of best fit the stronger we can say the correlation is. It can be a curve. Dependent variable (units) Anomalous results: Put a ring round any outliers to show you know they do not if the pattern. Jagged line: These indicate a broken scale. A broken scale is used when values close to 0 are not required. Independent variable (units)

7 ISA section 2 exam – Additional / Separate Science All these graphs scored full marks

Controlled Assessment Unit - CAU Investigative Skills Assessment - ISA

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Controlled Assessment Unit - CAU Investigative Skills Assessment - ISA

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