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0495_w02_er.pdf
This examiner report covers Cambridge IGCSE Sociology (0495) from the 2002 Oct-Nov session. Written by the principal examiner, it provides detailed commentary on candidate performance across all paper components — highlighting the most common mistakes, misconceptions, and what distinguished top-scoring answers from weaker ones. This is one of the most valuable revision tools available, yet most students never read it.
Also referenced as: 0495_w02_er · 0495/o/n/02 · 0495 Oct/Nov 2002
This examiner report covers all paper components for Sociology (0495) in this session. Read it after completing each question paper to understand where the cohort gained and lost marks, and how your approach compares to the examiner's expectations.
Examiner reports are the highest-value revision resource most students overlook. For Sociology (0495), read each section of this report alongside the corresponding question paper. Note which questions had the lowest success rate — these are the topics you should prioritise. The examiner often explains exactly what was required for full marks, giving you a template for structuring your own answers.
Based on analysis of 1 official Cambridge documents (2023)
Conflating validity and reliability
“There is a tendency to conflate validity and reliability.”— 0495 Paper 1, June 2023
How to fix: Validity = does the method measure what it claims to measure? (accuracy/truthfulness). Reliability = would repeating the method produce the same results? (consistency/replicability). Learn these definitions and practise using them in context — they are NOT interchangeable.
Common-sense answers instead of sociological evidence
“Some candidates could only score lower marks as their answers tended to be based on common sense.”— 0495 Paper 2, June 2023
How to fix: Every point must be backed by a named study, theory, or sociological concept. Replace everyday reasoning with sociological evidence. Instead of 'I think families have changed', write 'Parsons argues the family has become more nuclear due to industrialisation'.
Not developing points — list-like responses
“Marks were limited because of limited development.”— 0495 Paper 1, June 2023
How to fix: Do not write a list of brief points. Take each point and develop it: STATE the point → EXPLAIN it → give an EXAMPLE or link it to a study. One well-developed point scores more than three undeveloped bullet points.
Sociology Exam Guide: How to Score Higher
Top mistakes, scoring patterns & answer frameworks from 1 official Cambridge documents
