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0495_s26_ms_12.pdf
This is the official Cambridge mark scheme for Sociology (0495) Mark Scheme 1 (Variant 2) 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: 0495_s26_ms_12 · 0495/12/m/j/26 ms · 0495/12 May/June 2026 ms
Paper 1: Core Content — This is Paper 1: Core Content, worth 80 marks with a duration of 2h. Parts (a)–(e). Part (a) = definitions, (b) = identify, (c) = describe with examples, (d) = explain, (e) = evaluate both sides. Must argue both sides in part (e).
This mark scheme corresponds to 0495_s26_qp_12. 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 Sociology (0495), 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.
Every past paper on this site stays free. These are the worked answers and notes our specialists write on top of them.
Sociology (0495) Mark Scheme 1 (Variant 2) from other exam sessions — practise the same paper across the years, then check each one against its mark scheme.
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
