0457_m16_gt — 2016 March Global Perspectives 0457 Grade Threshold · Cambridge CAIE IGCSE

Listing strengths/weaknesses of research instead of explaining their impact

“Candidates were usually able to identify and briefly describe or list several strengths and weaknesses of research. However, many candidates did not explain the significance of the identified strength or weakness for the quality of the research and evidence gathered.”— 0457/11 Paper 1, June 2025

How to fix: After identifying a strength or weakness, add a 'so what' sentence using one of these critical-thinking concepts: reliability, validity, accuracy, representativeness, generalisation, bias, vested interest, expertise, ability to know. Pattern: 'The sample is small (POINT) which means the data may not be representative of the wider population (CONCEPT) so generalising the finding would be unreliable (IMPACT).'

Listing research methods without linking them to the claim being tested

“Linking the method and source of evidence to the issue in the claim is necessary to reach the higher levels of response. Simply listing a range of methods and sources of evidence is not sufficient.”— 0457/11 Paper 1, June 2025

How to fix: For each method, write three sentences: (1) name the method (e.g. survey of 200 protesters), (2) name the evidence it will produce (e.g. percentage who saw their march on TV news), (3) explicitly state how that evidence will test the claim in the question. Quote the claim back in your answer to force the link.

Asserting opinion without justifying with reasons and evidence

“Candidates generally recognised that opinions should be justified with reasons and evidence. Assertion and simple description of opinion is generally not sufficient in response to most questions.”— 0457/11 Paper 1, June 2025

How to fix: Never let an opinion stand alone. Every claim needs reason + evidence. Use the source booklet — quote or summarise material from the sources to back each judgement. Pattern: 'I think X is most significant BECAUSE [reason], for example [evidence from source or own knowledge].'