Theme 1 Section A

Question 1

Given two examples or an extract, explain the difference between a positive and normative statement. [4 marks]

Answer 1

Kn (2)
* Definition of positive statement: an objective statement that can be tested and proven or disproven
* Definition of normative statement: a subjective statement that is based on value judgement

Ap (2)
* Quote positive statement (usually figures or data)
* Quote normative statement (usually what is ‘fair’, ‘unfair’, ‘justified’ or ‘unjustified’)

Question 2

Explain one advantage of the division of labour in car production. [3 marks]

Answer 2

Kn (1)
* Where production is broken down into tasks, and an individual specialises in one particular task

Ap (1)
* e.g. a worker who adds tyres to a car

An (1)
linked development, e.g.
* increased productivity / output due to less time wasted moving between tasks
* reduces unit costs

Question 3

One disadvantage a sandwich making firm may experience from the division of labour on its production line is an increase in _____. Why? [4 marks]

Answer 3

Staff turnover

Kn (1)
* Where production tasks are split into tasks, and an individual specialises in one particular task

Ap (1)
* e.g. cutting bread / spreading butter / packaging

An (1)
* workers experience boredom or monotony in their job
* increase in recruitment costs and total training costs considering increased staff turnover