This is the official Cambridge mark scheme for Marine Science (9693) Mark Scheme 4 (Variant 3) from the 2026 May-June session. Mark schemes show exactly how each mark is awarded, including acceptable alternative answers, required key terms, and common errors that lose marks. Cambridge mark schemes use notation like "allow," "accept," and "do not credit" to define the boundary between full marks and zero.
Also referenced as: 9693_s26_ms_43 · 9693/43/m/j/26 ms · 9693/43 May/June 2026 ms
Paper 4: A Level Data-Handling and Investigative Skills — This is Paper 4: A Level Data-Handling and Investigative Skills, worth 75 marks with a duration of 2h. Spearman's rank, chi-squared and extended experimental planning. Plans must give five values of the independent variable, identify control variables with HOW they are controlled, and explain why a chosen statistical test is appropriate. Check error bars for overlap.
This mark scheme corresponds to 9693_s26_qp_43. For maximum revision benefit, attempt the question paper under strict exam conditions first, then use this mark scheme to self-assess. Pay attention to the marking notation: "allow" means an alternative is accepted, "do not credit" means a specific phrasing is rejected even if technically correct, and "ORA" (or reverse argument) means the mark can also be earned with the opposite reasoning.
Cambridge mark schemes reward precise language. For Marine Science (9693), look for keywords the examiner requires — definitions must include specific terms (e.g., "per unit mass," "resultant"), and calculations must show working even if the final answer is correct. Understanding mark scheme conventions helps you write answers that hit every marking point, not just the general idea.
