How am I Assessed in the AQA GCSE Business Exam?

The GCSE Business AQA exam is structured into two papers, each designed to assess students' understanding of key business concepts, applications, and decision-making processes. Both papers cover various topics related to business operations, finance, marketing, and human resources.

Paper 1: Influences of Operations and HRM on Business Activity

Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes

Marks: 90 marks

Weighting: 50% of the overall GCSE

Sections:

Section A: Multiple-Choice and Short-Answer Questions

• This section includes a mix of multiple-choice questions and short-answer questions.
• These questions assess students' knowledge of key concepts and their ability to recall and apply basic business principles.
• Topics often include business objectives, organizational structures, and the role of stakeholders.

Section B: Case Study/Scenario-Based Questions

• This section focuses on questions based on business scenarios or case studies, where students need to apply their understanding to real-world business situations.
• Questions may require data interpretation, analysis, and application of business theories.
• Topics covered might include production processes, quality control, supply chain management, human resource management, and operational decision-making.

Section C: Extended Response Questions

• This section includes longer, extended response questions that require detailed analysis, evaluation, and reasoning.
• Students may need to make decisions or provide recommendations based on a business scenario, justifying their responses.
• These questions often involve discussing the impact of operational and human resource decisions on business performance.

Paper 2: Influences of Marketing and Finance on Business Activity

Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes

Marks: 90 marks

Weighting: 50% of the overall GCSE

Sections:

Section A: Multiple-Choice and Short-Answer Questions

• Similar to Paper 1, this section contains multiple-choice and short-answer questions.
• Focus areas include basic finance concepts, marketing strategies, and business growth.
• Topics may include sources of finance, marketing mix, and financial terms.

Section B: Case Study/Scenario-Based Questions

• This section involves applying knowledge to specific business scenarios related to marketing and finance.
• Students are expected to interpret data, perform financial calculations, and make informed decisions.
• Topics might include budgeting, break-even analysis, cash flow, and market research.

Section C: Extended Response Questions

• This section features extended response questions that require in-depth analysis and evaluation.
• Students may be asked to evaluate marketing strategies, financial performance, or business growth opportunities.
• These questions require students to synthesise information and justify their recommendations.

Key Topics Covered in Both Papers:

• Business in the Real World: Understanding the purpose of business activity, the nature of business ownership, and the aims and objectives of businesses.
• Influences on Business: Examining the external influences that impact business activity, including economic factors, ethical considerations, and technological change.
• Business Operations: Exploring production processes, the role of procurement, and the importance of managing stock and quality.
• Human Resources: Understanding recruitment, selection, training, and employment law, as well as motivation and organizational structures.
• Marketing: Analyzing the marketing mix (4 Ps), market research, segmentation, and promotional strategies.
• Finance: Understanding sources of finance, financial forecasting, cash flow management, financial statements, and profitability.

Exam Skills Required:

• Knowledge and Understanding: Demonstrating a grasp of business concepts and terminology.
• Application: Applying theoretical knowledge to practical business scenarios.
• Analysis: Breaking down business problems and considering the implications of business decisions.
• Evaluation: Making reasoned judgments and providing recommendations based on analysis.
• Calculation: Performing financial calculations accurately, such as profit, cash flow, and break-even analysis.

The AQA exam papers are designed to encourage students to think critically about business activities, develop problem-solving skills, and apply their knowledge to a variety of business contexts.

Good Luck!