How to Answer 20 Mark 🖋 EDEXCEL A Level Business Question WITH AN EXAMPLE - A Level Exam Technique

Summary

This video provides essential tips for business students on how to effectively answer a 20-mark essay question. The focus is on evaluating two options in depth and making a clear, justified recommendation based on the case study. The video emphasizes the importance of balance in presenting arguments for and against each option, as well as applying context from the case study. Key strategies include avoiding unnecessary information, using the acronym MOPS (Market, Objectives, Product, Situation) to structure answers, and applying the CHISEL framework for a detailed recommendation. The video also encourages contextualizing answers for higher marks.

Takeaways

• 😀 Understand the command word 'evaluate': You must show a balanced answer by evaluating both options provided in the essay question.
• 😀 Stay focused and avoid 'waffling': Keep your answer relevant to the question and do not deviate from the main topic.
• 😀 Planning is essential: Planning your answer helps stay on track and ensures you cover all points clearly.
• 😀 Provide balanced arguments: For each option, present both pros and cons, followed by a clear recommendation.
• 😀 Avoid being indecisive: Your recommendation must be clear; do not sit on the fence between options.
• 😀 Contextualize your answer: Always link your answer to the case study and ensure your response is relevant to the specific business scenario.
• 😀 Use MOPS to structure recommendations: Market, Objectives, Product, and Situation can help guide your recommendation and contextualize your answer.
• 😀 Acronyms like CHISEL help structure your recommendation: CHISEL stands for Answer, Justify, It Depends, Short-term, Long-term, and Link to recommendation.
• 😀 Use relevant terminology from the case study: When evaluating the options, incorporate information directly from the case study to support your arguments.
• 😀 Be concise and efficient: You do not need to write lengthy responses; the space provided in the exam booklet is enough.
• 😀 Always relate your arguments to the case study: Contextualize your points to the specific business and industry situation presented in the case study.

Q & A

What is the main focus of this video for business students?

The video provides guidance on how to effectively answer a 20-mark essay question, specifically focusing on evaluation and balancing both options to maximize marks. It also offers an example and tips for writing a strong answer.

What is the command word typically used in 20-mark essay questions?

The command word is 'evaluate'. This means students must show a balanced evaluation of both options provided in the question.

Why is it important to stay focused in a 20-mark essay?

Staying focused is crucial because it helps you directly address the question, avoid unnecessary information, and maximize your chances of earning full marks. Waffling can lead to a lack of clarity and weaker analysis.

How many 20-mark essay questions are typically in each paper?

There are two 20-mark essay questions in each paper.

What is one of the key tips given for answering the 20-mark question?

One key tip is to plan your answer beforehand. This ensures you stay on track and logically structure your response, helping you cover all relevant points efficiently.

What does it mean to show balance in your answer?

Showing balance means evaluating both options fairly by providing arguments for and against each one, and then concluding with a clear recommendation based on the analysis.

What is the significance of contextualizing your answer to the case study?

Contextualizing your answer means applying the case study's specifics to your evaluation. This helps demonstrate that your response is relevant to the actual situation, improving the quality and accuracy of your analysis.

What acronym should be used in the recommendation paragraph, and what does it stand for?

The acronym is MOPS, which stands for Market, Objectives, Product, and Situation. It is a useful tool to help you contextualize your recommendation and make it relevant to the case study.

What does the acronym MOPS help students focus on in their recommendation?

MOPS helps students focus on key aspects such as the market the business operates in, the objectives it has, the product it sells, and the situation it is currently facing. It encourages the application of these elements in the recommendation.

What is the 'chisel' method, and how does it help with the recommendation?

The 'chisel' method is a strategy to structure your recommendation: 'A' for answering the question, 'J' for justifying your point, 'I' for considering both short-term and long-term implications, 'S' for short-term, and 'L' for long-term. This method ensures a thorough and balanced recommendation.

What are the pros and cons of cutting prices further, according to the script?

Pros: Cutting prices could attract more customers, especially from discount supermarkets like Aldi and Lidl, and help increase revenue and market share. Cons: It may convey poor quality and unsettle shareholders who are concerned about the impact on profits and dividends.

What are the pros and cons of improving customer experience, as discussed in the video?

Pros: Improving customer experience could give Morrison's a competitive advantage, attract new customers, and allow the business to charge higher prices for better products and services. Cons: This strategy may not guarantee success, as new customers may be deterred by higher prices, and it could unsettle shareholders if sales don’t increase.

How should students address shareholders in their answer?

Students should consider how each option affects shareholders, referencing the potential impact on share price, dividends, and market share. This is key to contextualizing the evaluation and ensuring it aligns with the business’s objectives.

What should the final recommendation include, according to the script?

The final recommendation should clearly choose one of the two options (either cutting prices further or improving customer experience) and justify it using analysis from the case study. It should also apply the 'chisel' method and include one aspect of MOPS.

What role does consumer research play in evaluating the two options?

Consumer research indicates that while price is important, the overall customer experience, such as product range, quality, and service, also plays a significant role in supermarket choice. This insight is crucial for evaluating the pros and cons of both pricing strategies.