Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

TM
Cambridge IGCSE / IGCSE (9–1)
Design & Technology 0445 / 0979
Cambridge O Level
Design & Technology 6043
For examination from 2020
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Contents
Introduction....................................................................................................................................................................... 4
Question (a) ..................................................................................................................................................................... 6
Example Candidate Response – high........................................................................................................................... 6
Example Candidate Response – low............................................................................................................................ 7
Example Candidate Response – middle....................................................................................................................... 8

Question (b) ..................................................................................................................................................................... 9

Example Candidate Response – high........................................................................................................................... 9
Example Candidate Response – low.......................................................................................................................... 10
Example Candidate Response – middle..................................................................................................................... 11

Question (c) ................................................................................................................................................................... 12

Example Candidate Response – high......................................................................................................................... 12
Example Candidate Response – low.......................................................................................................................... 14
Example Candidate Response – middle..................................................................................................................... 16

Question (d) ................................................................................................................................................................... 18

Example Candidate Response – high......................................................................................................................... 18
Example Candidate Response – low.......................................................................................................................... 20
Example Candidate Response – middle..................................................................................................................... 22

Question (e) ................................................................................................................................................................... 24

Example Candidate Response – high......................................................................................................................... 24
Example Candidate Response – low.......................................................................................................................... 26
Example Candidate Response – middle..................................................................................................................... 27

Question (f) .................................................................................................................................................................... 29

Example Candidate Response – high......................................................................................................................... 29
Example Candidate Response – low.......................................................................................................................... 30
Example Candidate Response – middle..................................................................................................................... 31

Question (g) ................................................................................................................................................................... 32

Example Candidate Response – high......................................................................................................................... 32
Example Candidate Response – low.......................................................................................................................... 34
Example Candidate Response – middle..................................................................................................................... 35
 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Introduction
The main aim of this booklet is to exemplify standards for those teaching Cambridge IGCSE / IGCSE (9–1) / O Level
Design & Technology 0445 / 0979 / 6043, and to show how different levels of candidates’ performance (high, middle
and low) relate to the syllabus requirements.
In this booklet candidate responses have been chosen from the November 2020 exam series to exemplify a range of
answers.
For each question, the response is annotated with a clear explanation of where and why marks were awarded or
omitted. This is followed by examiner comments on how the answer could have been improved. In this way, it is
possible for you to understand what candidates have done to gain their marks and what they could do to improve their
answers. There is also a list of common mistakes candidates made in their answers for each question.
This document provides illustrative examples of candidate work with examiner commentary. These help teachers
to assess the standard required to achieve marks beyond the guidance of the mark scheme. Therefore, in some
circumstances, such as where exact answers are required, there will not be much comment.
The questions, mark schemes and inserts used here are available to download from the School Support Hub. These
files are:

0445 November 2020 Question Paper 12

0445 November 2020 Paper 12 Mark Scheme
0445 November 2020 Paper 12 Insert 1
0445 November 2020 Paper 12 Insert 2

Past exam resources and other teaching and learning resources are available on the School Support Hub:
www.cambridgeinternational.org/support

4
 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

How to use this booklet

This booklet goes through the paper one question at a time, showing you the high-, middle- and low-level response for
each question. The candidate answers are set in a table. In the left-hand column are the candidate answers, and in
the right-hand column are the examiner comments.

Examiner comments are

alongside the answers. These
Answers are by real candidates in exam conditions. explain where and why marks
These show you the types of answers for each level. were awarded. This helps you
Discuss and analyse the answers with your learners in to interpret the standard of
the classroom to improve their skills. Cambridge exams so you can
help your learners to refine
their exam technique.

How the candidate could have improved their answer

• The candidate began each point with a single word. If the candidate had just written the first word e.g.
‘Accessibility’ they would not have achieved all the marks as these were generic statements that could relate to
almost any product.
• However, by adding the descriptions, the candidate described how these affected the function of the product and
fully explained why it was important.
This section explains how the candidate could
have improved each answer. This helps you to
interpret the standard of Cambridge exams and
helps your learners to refine their exam technique.

Common mistakes candidates made in this question

• Many candidates wrote single word answers which could apply to almost any product.
• Many candidates repeated words and phrases from the question.
• Two lines were given for the candidate response for each point. It is important that candidates provide answers that
apply to the specific scenario or product given in the question.
• Generic answers for this question, such as ‘must be strong’, must be durable’ which could be applied to any
product were often given by candidates. Unless further details were provided by the candidate, which qualified why
this was relevant to the function of the product, they would not be awarded the mark.

Often candidates were not awarded Lists the common mistakes candidates made
marks because they misread or in answering each question. This will help your
misinterpreted the questions. learners to avoid these mistakes and give them
the best chance of achieving the available marks.

5
 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Question 1(a)

Example Candidate Response – high Examiner comments

1 The candidate begins each

point with a single word. If the
candidate had just written the
1 first word, e.g. ‘Accessibility’ they
would not be awarded all the
marks because these are generic
statements that could relate to
almost any product.
Mark for part (a) point 1 = 1 out of 1
Mark for part (a) point 2 = 1 out of 1
Mark for part (a) point 3 = 1 out of 1
Mark for part (a) point 4 = 1 out of 1
Total mark awarded =
4 out of 4

How the candidate could have improved their answer

The candidate began each point with a single word. If the candidate had just written the first word, e.g. ‘Accessibility’
they would not have achieved all the marks as these were generic statements that could relate to almost any product.
However, by adding the descriptions, the candidate described how these affected the function of the product and fully
explained why it was important.

6
 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Example Candidate Response – middle Examiner comments

1 The candidate gives four

specification points. For point 1, the
candidate describes an important
function of the stand that relates
to the weight of the golf equipment
and that the stand must be able to
support this weight. This is a valid
1 point and is awarded a mark.
For point 2, the candidate states
that the stand must ‘be able display
multiple items’. This is a valid point,
but is a repeat of what has already
been given in the question; they are
told that it must ‘display a set of golf
clubs and other golfing equipment’.
Therefore, the candidate is not
awarded this mark.
For point 3, the candidate states that
the stand must be ‘durable’. Durable
is a generic term that can be applied
to almost any product and is not
awarded a mark.
For point 4, the candidate has
stated that the stand must be
‘stable’. Stable is one of the criteria
given in the mark scheme. Although
the candidate has not given any
further information relating this to
the function of the display stand,
they are given the benefit of the
doubt and are awarded the mark for
this point.
Mark for part (a) point 1 = 1 out of 1
Mark for part (a) point 2 = 0 out of 1
Mark for part (a) point 3 = 0 out of 1
Mark for part (a) point 4 = 1 out of 1
Total mark awarded =
2 out of 4

How the candidate could have improved their answer

• For point 2, to improve their answer, the candidate needed to look more carefully at the information given in the
question to make sure they did not repeat any of the question in their answer.
• For point 3, to improve their answer, the candidate needed to give more specific information about why the stand
needed be durable, for example, ‘durable so that it will withstand knocks and bumps when being moved in and out
of the shop’.
• For point 4, to improve their answer, the candidate could have explained why stability of the stand was important,
for example ‘so that it doesn’t fall over and damage the equipment or injure customers / passers by’. Alternatively,
they could have referred to it being outside, where there is an increased likelihood of it being blown over by gusts
of wind.

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 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Example Candidate Response – low Examiner comments

1 The candidate is awarded a

mark for ‘lightweight’ because it
is relevant to the function of the
product. The display stand will need
to be lightweight in order to be
moved around easily.
The second, third and fourth
answers given are generic
1 statements that could be applied to
any product, so no additional marks
are awarded.
Mark for part (a) point 1 = 1 out of 1
Mark for part (a) point 2 = 0 out of 1
Mark for part (a) point 3 = 0 out of 1
Mark for part (a) point 4 = 0 out of 1
Total mark awarded =
1 out of 4

How the candidate could have improved their answer

• To improve their answer for point 1, the candidate could have explained their point in more detail, such as the
weight of the stand being important because it needs to be moved around the shop. However, their answer was
deemed sufficient to be awarded the mark.
• The second, third and fourth answers given were generic statements that could be applied to any product. The
candidate could have improved on these points by describing how each point related to the function of the stand.

Common mistakes candidates made in this question

• Many candidates wrote single word answers which could apply to almost any product.
• Many candidates repeated words and phrases from the question.
• Two lines were given for the candidate response for each point. It is important that candidates provide answers that
apply to the specific scenario or product given in the question.
• Generic answers for this question, such as ‘must be strong’, ‘must be durable’ which could be applied to any
product were often given by candidates. Unless further details were provided by the candidate, which qualified why
this was relevant to the function of the product, they would not be awarded the mark.

8
 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Question 1(b)

Example Candidate Response – high Examiner comments

1 The candidate draws two neat

sketches which show how viewing
windows could be used to show
the contents of the stand. The
methods are distinctly different so
the candidate is awarded a mark for
each. The candidate also provides
notes to explain the method used
along with each sketch, so they are
1 awarded a mark for the notes on
each sketch.

Total mark awarded =

4 out of 4

How the candidate could have improved their answer

To improve their answer, the candidate could have annotated and labelled the design features on each of the
sketches.

9
 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Example Candidate Response – middle Examiner comments

1 The candidate shows two

methods. The first method shows
a transparent bag which allows the
contents of the display package
to be seen. The candidate also
provides notes which explain the
1 sketch, describing how the bag
allows the balls to be seen. They are
awarded one mark for the sketch
and one for the notes.
The candidate’s second sketch does
not introduce a viewing window to
the product. They provide notes
that explain how the design works.
However, the sketch and notes
do not show a method of allowing
the contents to be displayed. The
candidate, therefore, is not awarded
any marks for their second sketch.

Total mark awarded =

2 out of 4

How the candidate could have improved their answer

To improve their answer further, the candidate needed to ensure that the second sketch met the criteria of the question
and was a different method to the one shown in the first sketch.

10
 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Example Candidate Response – low Examiner comments

1 This candidate has misread or

misunderstood the question and
shown two methods of making the
display stand more stable, rather
than making it mobile and easy to
move. They provide two sketches
with accompanying notes but
because these do not answer the
question, the candidate is awarded
no marks.
1

Total mark awarded =

0 out of 4

How the candidate could have improved their answer

To improve their answer, the candidate needed to read the question more carefully and make sure that what they were
producing was what the question was asking for.

Common mistakes candidates made in this question

• Many candidates showed two applications of the same method, rather than two different methods.
• For each method, one mark was awarded for the sketch and one mark was awarded for the notes. If two different
applications of the same method were shown, a maximum of three marks were awarded.

11
 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Question 1(c)

Example Candidate Response – high Examiner comments

1 The candidate produces three

design ideas for the display stand
and they are all distinctly different.
The communication is mostly of a
high standard with clear, accurate
and well proportioned 3D sketches.
The ideas are annotated, showing
some constructional details and
types of materials. The candidate
1 provides two high quality responses
on the first page, and demonstrates
high standards of drawing and
annotation and clear constructional
details.

12
 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Example Candidate Response – high, continued Examiner comments

2 2 Idea 3 is a simple idea drawn to

a lower standard than the first two,
with less constructional details.

Total mark awarded =

10 out of 12

How the candidate could have improved their answer

• The candidate needed to be more specific when they labelled the materials. Instead of ‘metal frame’ or ‘wooden
shelf’, they needed to give a specific type of metal or wood such as aluminium or mahogany.
• The candidate needed to draw and communicate the third idea to the same standard as the first two ideas. They
may have run out of time and rushed the last design.

13
 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Example Candidate Response – middle Examiner comments

1 The candidate produces

three very different design ideas
for the display stand, which they
communicate through clear 3D
sketches. The candidate annotates
the ideas to show some of the
design features, but they show
limited constructional details.

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 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Example Candidate Response – middle, continued Examiner comments

Total mark awarded =

8 out of 12

How the candidate could have improved their answer

To improve their answer, the candidate could have provided more details of the construction process. They could have
provided more information about the materials, joining methods and shown how parts of the designs would fit together.

15
 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Example Candidate Response – low Examiner comments

1 The candidate presents three

ideas. The ideas are drawn in 2D
and show limited communication
skills, with no annotation or
constructional details.

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 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Example Candidate Response – low, continued Examiner comments

Total mark awarded =

2 out of 12

How the candidate could have improved their answer

• The candidate could have sketched the designs using a 3D sketching technique to allow more detail to be shown.
• Annotations could have been added to show constructional details and describe how parts of the designs worked.

Common mistakes candidates made in this question

• Many candidates spent a long time producing a high quality first idea, but then struggled to produce two more
ideas to the same quality due to a lack of ideas or time.
• Many candidates produced three very similar ideas with very little difference.
• Many candidates simply labelled parts of their product, e.g. wheels, handle, etc. but did not show or describe any
of the constructional details.
• If less than three ideas were produced, the marks were reduced pro rata. For example, two ideas would be
awarded a maximum of 8 marks and one idea would be awarded a maximum of 4 marks.

17
 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Question 1(d)

Example Candidate Response – high Examiner comments

1 The candidate identifies key

design features on each of their
ideas and then describes the
advantages or disadvantages
that these have on the overall
design (justification). For Idea
1
1, the candidate gives two clear
disadvantages of their first idea from
part (c). By looking at part (c) the
examiner can verify that what the
candidate describes and evaluates
matches what the candidate has
2 drawn: in this case, the skis that will
only work on smooth surfaces and
the box shape with a lid at the top
that will mean items are clustered
together, and not well displayed.
3 The candidate gives three
disadvantages of their design which
are all valid and therefore achieves
both marks.
2 For Idea 2, the candidate
identifies a design feature (the
fact that it has wheels) and then
justifies why this is an advantage
(it allows it to move over a variety
of surfaces). The candidate is
awarded a mark for this. For the
second point, the candidate states
that the design does not display all
items fully. Although the candidate
does not identify a feature of the
design, the examiner can see from
the sketch in part (c) that many of
the items will be stored inside the
main box shaped section of the
design, and can verify that this is
a disadvantage. The candidate is
awarded the mark for this.
3 For Idea 3, the candidate
identifies the mesh wire side panel
and justifies their selection to be
an advantage with clear reasoning.
They then identify the handle and
also state clearly why this is an
advantage. The candidate achieves
all six marks for this part of the
question.

18
 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Example Candidate Response – high, continued Examiner comments

4 The candidate selects one of

4 their three ideas so is awarded the
first mark. They then justify their
choice by giving two clear reasons
why this design is better than the
others. In this case, the wheels
and the mesh, which give it the
advantage of being able to see
all items inside and being easily
moved.
Mark for Idea 1 = 2 out of 2
Mark for Idea 2 = 2 out of 2
Mark for Idea 3 = 2 out of 2
Mark for Chosen Idea = 1 out of 1
Mark for Justification = 1 out of 1
Total mark awarded =
8 out of 8

How the candidate could have improved their answer

Idea 2: To improve their answer, the candidate could have made it clear that the ‘closed box’ design was what
prevented the items inside from being visible.

19
 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Example Candidate Response – middle Examiner comments

1 For Idea 1, the candidate

states that it is ‘very suitable for
9
the display of items’, but they have
not given any justification for why
1
it is ‘very suitable’ so they are not
awarded a mark for this statement.
The candidate then states that the
10
design offers limited space for items,
which the examiner can verify by
looking at the design. It is clear that
large items such as golf clubs will
11 not be able to fit inside the cabinet
2 due to the shape and size of the
cabinet. The candidate is awarded
the mark.
12
2 For Idea 2, the candidate states
that the design has a lot of space
13 and allows items to be viewed from
3 all sides. By looking at the design
the examiner can see that this is
true and therefore awards the first
mark. The candidate then states
that the design will be heavy and
14
therefore not very mobile. The
examiner can see from the design
that it is quite large and made from
MDF and glass which are both
heavy materials, so the candidate is
awarded the mark.
3 For Idea 3, the candidate
makes three quite generic
statements about their design with
no justification for each. It is difficult
4
for the examiner to find evidence
to support their statements from
looking at the design in part (c).
However, it could be argued that
because the design is round in
shape, there would be significantly
more waste during manufacture
when cutting round shapes from
rectangular MDF sheets, and
that the round shape is more
aesthetically appealing than the
other two designs. The examiner
has taken these factors into account
and awarded one mark.

20
 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Example Candidate Response – middle, continued Examiner comments

4 The candidate selects one of

their three ideas, so is awarded the
first mark. They then state that of
all the ideas they have evaluated,
4 this one serves its purpose the
most. This does not provide any
information about why Idea 1 is
most suitable, and needs to be more
than a vague, generic statement.
The candidate needs to justify why
Idea 1 is most suitable.
16
Mark for Idea 1 = 1 out of 2
Mark for Idea 2 = 2 out of 2
Mark for Idea 3 = 1 out of 2
Mark for Chosen Idea = 1 out of 1
Mark for Justification = 0 out of 1
Total mark awarded =
5 out of 8

How the candidate could have improved their answer

• Idea 1: To improve their answer, the candidate should have selected the part of their design that made it suitable
and then justified why it was suitable. In this case they could have selected the clear glass top and front of the
design, and justified that this made it very suitable for displaying items because the customer could see all of the
items inside the container. In terms of the limited space, the candidate could have improved this part of the answer,
if they had first selected the size and shape of their design and then used this to justify why it offered limited space
for items.
• Idea 2: To improve their answer, the candidate could have first stated that the two platforms and open structure
of their design made it spacious and easy to view items. In terms of the weight of the design, the candidate could
have stated that it was made from heavy materials, which then would have allowed them to justify the reason that it
was difficult to move.
• Idea 3: To improve their answer, the candidate could have given some reasons about why the product was more
expensive to manufacture and more aesthetically appealing. If the candidate had justified their answers in this way,
they would have been awarded both marks.
• Chosen Idea and Justification: To improve their answer, the candidate could have picked the specific design
features of Idea 1 (such as the lock, or glass front) and justified that these features meant it would keep the items
secure, but still allowed them to be seen clearly.

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 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Example Candidate Response – low Examiner comments

1 For Idea 1, the candidate

provides a long description of how
9
1 the product is made, but does not
select any design features or state
any advantages or disadvantages
of the design so is not awarded any
marks. The candidate then gives
10
two advantages of the design (it
can be moved easily and is easily
accessible) which the examiner
can verify by looking at the design
11 2
in part (c). In this case the design
has just enough detail to provide
evidence for the examiner to award
the marks. The handles mean that
12
it can be moved easily and there
are various compartments, hooks
3 13 and holders for different items to be
displayed.
2 For Idea 2, the candidate
again gives a long description of
the design, but does not state any
advantages or disadvantages of any
parts or design features. The last
sentence states that it has corners
so may not be user friendly, but
this is too vague and generic to be
awarded a mark.
3 For Idea 3, the candidate
writes a long description of how the
product is constructed in a similar
way to Idea 1. They then give the
same two advantages to this design
as Idea 1. Because these are repeat
answers of those given in Idea 1,
the candidate is not awarded any
marks.

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 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Example Candidate Response – low, continued Examiner comments

4 The candidate selects one of

4 their three ideas so is awarded the
first mark. They then justify their
choice by saying that the design
adheres most to the specification.
This is a generic statement that
could be given regardless of
whichever design they had chosen,
so is not awarded a mark.
Mark for Idea 1 = 2 out of 2
Mark for Idea 2 = 0 out of 2
Mark for Idea 3 = 0 out of 2
Mark for Chosen Idea = 1 out of 1
Mark for Justification = 0 out of 1
Total mark awarded =
3 out of 8

How the candidate could have improved their answer

• Idea 1: The candidate was awarded the marks, but only just. To improve their answer, they could have first
selected the design features, and then explained why these made it easy to move and access the items.
• Idea 2: To improve their answer, the candidate could have given more detail, explained that the shelf had corners
which were at eye or head level and therefore could be hazardous to a small child. This would have justified the
reason why this was a disadvantage and the candidate would have been awarded the mark.
• Idea 3: To improve their answer, the candidate could have identified some of the unique features of this particular
design, such as the tall thin shape, and justified why this may be an advantage or disadvantage, e.g. long items
such as golf clubs won’t fall out easily, but the design could fall over easily when full.
• Chosen Idea and Justification: To improve their answer, the candidate could have picked specific design features
of idea 1 (such as the hooks and holders for items), and justified why these features made it a better design than
the other Ideas.

Common mistakes candidates made in this question

• Many candidates stated unjustified advantages or disadvantages of their design ideas.
• Many candidates stated the same advantages or disadvantages for more than one idea.
• Many candidates used generic phases, such as ‘best meets the specification’, it is ‘better than the other two ideas’
or it ‘best meets the user needs’ to justify their selection of an idea.
Evaluation of ideas
• Many candidates described the designs from part (c) (e.g. ‘it has a glass front and a lid that can open’), but then
gave no further explanations about why these design features were an advantage or disadvantage.
• Candidates often repeated the advantages or disadvantages from one design to another. This was especially
common when the designs in part (c) were very similar so shared the same design features. To achieve high
marks candidates needed to identify the individual design features on their idea, then needed to explain why
these were an advantage or disadvantage. The reasons given should relate to the use of the product as much as
possible.
Chosen Idea and Justification
Most candidates were able to choose one of their ideas so were awarded the first mark. However, often the reasons
given for their choices are too vague to be awarded any marks for justification.

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 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Question 1(e)

Example Candidate Response – high Examiner comments

1 Quality of drawing
1
The candidate produces a clear,
well proportioned 3D drawing using
a ruler. They use an oblique drawing
style, rather than isometric, which
does not show as much detail, but
they provide extra 2D enlarged
views of some parts of the design
showing some details. There is
some use of colour / shading to help
show which parts are visible through
the glass top. Some details such as
how the wheels and central dividing
piece will be fitted are missing.
2 Dimensions
The candidate provides the three
2 overall dimensions (width, height
3 and depth) so is awarded the
first mark. They also give the
individual heights and widths of
the compartments meaning they
achieve the second mark.
3 Constructional detail
The candidate provides details
of the materials to be used and
finishes that will be applied.
Information and drawings about how
the main parts of the product are
assembled are shown and additional

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 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Example Candidate Response – high, continued Examiner comments

drawings are included to provide
some further information about
doors, hinges and corner joints.
Certain details such as how the
wheels and compartment dividers
will be fitted are missing.
Mark for quality of drawing= 3 out
of 4
Mark for dimensions = 2 out of 2
Mark for constructional detail = 4 out
of 6
Total mark awarded =
9 out of 12

How the candidate could have improved their answer

• Quality of drawing: to improve their answer, the candidate could have used a more suitable drawing technique,
such as isometric, for their main image. They could have given details about how other key parts of the design
fitted together, and used other techniques such as exploded or orthographic views to show more detail.
• Dimensions: to improve their answer, the candidate could have added further dimensions such as the diameter of
the wheels and thicknesses of the materials used to make the frame.
• Constructional detail: to improve their answer, the candidate could have ensured that all constructional detail was
clearly shown, so that a third party could have manufactured the product from the information given.

25
 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Example Candidate Response – middle Examiner comments

1 Quality of drawing
1 The candidate presents a well
proportioned, accurate, isometric
drawing of their final design using
drawing instruments. The line quality
is good with construction lines
clearly visible. Although no shading
or colour has been used, it is clear
what the final product is intended to
look like from the drawing shown.
2 Dimensions
The candidate provides three overall
dimensions of the design (width,
2 height and depth) so is awarded the
first dimension mark.
3 Constructional detail
The candidate provides no
information or details of any
constructional methods. However,
due to the drawing’s proportions, the
product could be made to resemble
the drawing from the information
given.
Mark for quality of drawing= 3 out
of 4
Mark for dimensions = 1 out of 2
3
Mark for constructional detail = 1 out
of 6
Total mark awarded =
5 out of 12

How the candidate could have improved their answer

• Quality of drawing: the candidate could have improved their answer by adding some further views, such as
exploded or enlarged views of certain parts of the design. They could also have used colour or shading to enhance
the appearance.
• Dimensions: the candidate could have improved their answer by providing further dimensional details, for example
the sizes of the individual compartments at the front bottom edge.
• Constructional detail: to improve their answer the candidate could have given details about how the main
framework of the design would be assembled and they could have given details of the materials, joints and other
components used.

26
 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Example Candidate Response – low Examiner comments

1 Quality of drawing
The candidate attempts to draw
1 in a 3 dimensional oblique style,
but does not complete some parts
correctly. The line quality and
proportions of the design are poor
with very little detail presented.
2
Colour has been added, but the
application is poorly executed and
does not enhance the design in any
way.
2 Constructional detail
The candidate provides no
3 information or details of any
constructional methods. Due to
the limited information given in the
drawing, poor proportions and poor
quality of drawing, along with the
lack of any annotation, this is not
awarded any marks.
3 Dimensions
The candidate provides the three
overall dimensions of their design,
so is awarded the first mark. It
appears that the candidate has
given sizes more appropriate for a
scale model than a full size product,
but because they are all similar the
mark is awarded. One additional
dimension showing the leg thickness
has been given for which the
examiner has awarded the second
mark.
Mark for quality of drawing = 1 out
of 4
Mark for dimensions = 2 out of 2
Mark for constructional detail = 0 out
of 6
Total mark awarded =
3 out of 12

How the candidate could have improved their answer

• Quality of drawing: this candidate struggled to draw in 3D, so could have improved their answer if they had drawn
the design in two dimensions from different views. This would have allowed them to show more detail, including
thickness to the table top and legs, and they could have presented the proportions more clearly. The candidate
could have included additional freehand sketches of key parts to improve the level of detail given in their answer.
• Dimensions: to improve their answer, the candidate could have provided further dimensions such as the thickness
of the table top material, and provided dimensions that were all more in proportion (the 7 cm width of the leg would
make it much wider than actually shown).
• Constructional detail: to improve their answer the candidate could have provided written information about the
finish of the materials, and constructional methods used in their design. This would have allowed them to access
more of the marks without having to do additional drawings.
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 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Common mistakes candidates made in this question

• Many candidates recreated a neater version of the exact drawing given in part (c) which did not provide any
additional details.
• Many candidates coloured in parts of their design, but did not using shading techniques for the purposes of
enhancement, e.g. for showing curved surfaces and textures of materials.
• Many candidates provided just one view of their final design which meant that not all parts of the design could be
seen.
• Many candidates provided no dimensions or only basic dimensions of the overall sizes.
• Many candidates spent time listing the tools, machinery and/or giving details of the processes used to make the
product rather than listing the joints, fixings and components.

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 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Question 1(f)

Example Candidate Response – high Examiner comments

1 1 The candidate gives two

specific materials, aluminium and
acrylic. Both these materials are
shown in part (e) - the design has
an aluminium frame with an acrylic
lid, so the candidate is awarded
both material marks. The candidate
then states a clear reason why each
material has been chosen. The
reasons given are true (aluminium is
lightweight and corrosion resistant,
acrylic is transparent) so the
candidate is also awarded both of
the ‘reason’ marks.
Mark for Material = 2 out of 2
Mark for Reason = 2 out of 2
Total mark awarded =
4 out of 4

How the candidate could have improved their answer

The candidate answered this question extremely well and could not have improved their answer.

29
 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Example Candidate Response – middle Examiner comments

1 For the first material, the

candidate writes ‘plastic’. This
answer needs to be more specific
to be awarded the mark. The
1 candidate answers that it will not
put holes in the bag materials or the
gloves, but this answer needs to be
more specific and needs to relate to
2
a property of plastic.
2 For the second material, the
candidate has states ‘cedar wood’.
Although they do not state Cedar
wood anywhere in part (e), they
have not stated any other type of
material and the design shows
a wood grain finish. Cedar is a
specific type of wood and so the
candidate is awarded the first mark.
The candidate gives ‘lightweight’
and ‘aromatic’ as their reasons
for choosing this. Certain types of
cedar are lightweight and aromatic;
red cedar is known to give a fresh
natural fragrance so the candidate is
awarded the second mark.
Mark for material = 1 out of 2
Mark for reason = 1 out of 2
Total mark awarded =
2 out of 4

How the candidate could have improved their answer

• To improve their first answer, the candidate should have named a specific plastic such as nylon, acrylic or PVC,
etc.
• They could also have identified which part of the design would have been made from this material in part (e). For
the justification part, the candidate should have chosen a specific property of the plastic and explained why this
made it suitable for the design. e.g. waterproof, easy to heat and bend to shape.
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 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Example Candidate Response – low Examiner comments

1 The candidate states MDF for

the first material. MDF is a specific
material and although they have
not named it in part (e) they have
described parts as wood board
which is enough to allow the mark
to be awarded. The candidate's
reason for choosing MDF is that it
is ‘strong’, ‘steady’ and ‘pleasing
to look at’. MDF is not strong when
compared to natural wood boards
or other manufactured boards such
as plywood, and does not have an
attractive grain like natural woods.
1 The second mark is not awarded
because none of the reasons given
are valid.
2
2 The candidate states ‘screw’ for
the second material. A screw is a
manufactured component used as a
fixing method, not a material, so the
mark is not awarded. The candidate
gives some reasons why a screw
would be a suitable fixing, but is not
awarded the mark because this is
not what the question asked.
Mark for material = 1 out of 2
Mark for reason = 0 out of 2
Total mark awarded =
1 out of 4

How the candidate could have improved their answer

• To improve their answer the candidate could give other valid reasons for using MDF, for example ‘easy to cut’,
‘available in large sheets’, ‘inexpensive compared to hardwoods’, ‘can be painted easily’.
• For the second material, the candidate needed to choose a material instead of a fixing.

Common mistakes candidates made in this question

• Many candidates used generic names of materials, e.g. wood, metal, plastic,
• Many candidates showed the product was made from one material in part (e), but then stated a completely
different material in part (f).
• Many candidates provided fixings such as ‘nail’, ‘screw’, ‘bolt’, etc. as answers but these were not materials.
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 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Question 1(g)

Example Candidate Response – high Examiner comments

1 The candidate breaks the

process down into seven clear
stages and gives a detailed
description of each stage in the
process. Sketches are used to
clarify and give further detail about
some of the stages, and the process
shown is suitable for manufacturing
1 the side of the design shown in part
(e). The candidate names some
of the specific tools used (tenon
saw, marking knife, chisel) in the
manufacture and these are also
suitable for the processes shown.
Mark for suitable process = 1 out of
1
Mark for description of process = 3
out of 3
Mark for names of tools = 2 out of 2
Total mark awarded =
6 out of 6

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 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

How the candidate could have improved their answer

The candidate was awarded full marks but could have given more detail about the techniques and tools used in some
of the stages, for example the use of a vice to hold the wood whilst being cut in stage 3, and how the varnish would be
applied in stage 7.

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 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Example Candidate Response – middle Examiner comments

1 The candidate chooses to

describe the manufacturing method
used for the top of the unit. The
candidate does not provide any
1 information about the processes
used to cut the piece to shape.
They show that a drill is used to
make clearance holes, but give
no explanation about the type of
drill or drill bit used in the process.
They state that a tap and die are
used to thread the holes and they
draw a picture of them, but give no
information about how this would
be carried out. The candidate does
not mention the part being made
from metal, and the only materials
named are MDF or pine according
to part (e) and (f) of the candidate
response.
Mark for suitable process = 1 out of
1
Mark for description of process = 1
out of 3
Mark for names of tools = 1 out of 2
Total mark awarded =
3 out of 6

How the candidate could have improved their answer

• To improve their answer, the candidate could have provided more detail about how the material would be marked
out and cut to shape, how the holes would be marked and punched before drilling and how the holes would be
tapped and threaded.
• Although the candidate has named a tap and die, they could have gained more marks by naming other specific
tools that would be used, such as the type of drill, and the tools used to cut the material to shape.

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 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

Example Candidate Response – low Examiner comments

1 The candidate shows the use

of a mitre joint to join together the
1 carcass of their display stand. The
process shown is a suitable method
so they are awarded the first
mark. The candidate gives a brief
description to explain that the wood
would need to be marked out and
cut at 45°. The candidate names
some basic tools (pencil, set square
and wood saw) but these are not
specific enough to be awarded a
mark.
Mark for suitable process = 1 out of
1
Mark for description of process = 1
out of 3
Mark for names of tools = 0 out of 2
Total mark awarded =
2 out of 6

35
 Example Candidate Responses – Paper 1

How the candidate could have improved their answer

• To improve their answer, the candidate could have given a more detailed description of the processes involved in
the manufacture of the carcass, including how the pieces would be cut to shape, how the 45° angle would be cut
and how the pieces would be joined together.
• They could have named specific tools used in the process, such as the type of saws used to cut the wood and
create the 45° angle, as well as the adhesives, fixings and tools used to join the pieces together.

Common mistakes candidates made in this question

• Many candidates described a process that they knew, but did not describe one that would be used to make their
design shown in part (e).
• Many candidates described a process that was not suitable for the manufacture of the part shown, for example
nailing two pieces of acrylic together or using a plane to smooth the edges.
• Many candidates named tools such as ‘saw’ or ‘drill’, but this was not specific enough to be awarded the mark.

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