Practical Skills at A2 level (Question 1 - planning)

Question 1

3

Defining the problem: identifying the variables

Answer 1

1. independant variable (what is changed, how is it changed and how is the change measured)
2. dependant variable (what is measured, how is it measured)
3. control variables (how to ensure they are kept constant)

Step 1 (3 marks)

Additionally state how to measure or calculate any other variables given (eg. density, product of mass and volume)

Question 2

6

Methods of data collection

Answer 2

1. arrangement of apparatus, aid of clear labelled diagram
2. method used to vary independant variable
3. how the independant variable is measured
4. how the dependant variable is measured
5. how other variables will be kept constant
6. procedures to be followed

Clearly state how each variable is measured or kept constant

Step 2 (5 marks)

Additionally state the environmental factors to consider (eg. room temperature, wind, sound proofing etc)

Question 3

1

Additional details (method/procedure)

Answer 3

Suggest anything that needs to be done to ensure that there are large/noticable differences in the dependant variable

(Keep other variables constant)

Step 3 (4 marks)

Question 4

1

Safety

Answer 4

Provide details about any safety precautions that need to be taken to prevent harm or injury during the experimental process
(eg. safety glasses in case pendulum swings towards eyes, closed toed shoes incase mass falls)

Step 4 (1 mark)

Question 5

3

Method of analysis

Answer 5

1. Plot graph or table (clearly state what is plotted on each axis of the graph)
2. Explain every derived quantity
3. Try to prove or disprove any relationships using, for example, the gradient of the graph or commonly straight line (through origin) proves relationship

Step 5 (2 marks)