This page explains the three assessment objectives in Cambridge IGCSE Physics 0625 and how they shape the exam.
The three assessment objectives
AO1: Knowledge with Understanding
This tests whether you can recall and understand physics facts, concepts, laws and definitions.
What it looks like in the exam:
- “Define acceleration.”
- “State the law of reflection.”
- “Name the unit of resistance.”
How to prepare: Regular revision of key definitions, laws and facts. Use flashcards or self-quizzing. The syllabus document lists every fact you need to know.
Approximate weighting: 50% of the theory papers.
AO2: Handling Information and Problem Solving
This tests whether you can apply physics knowledge to solve problems, interpret data and draw conclusions.
What it looks like in the exam:
- “Calculate the resistance of the resistor.”
- “Explain why the balloon expands when heated.”
- “Using the data in the table, determine the relationship between force and extension.”
- “Suggest why the student’s result differs from the expected value.”
How to prepare: Practise calculations and application questions. Do past paper questions where the physics is applied to real situations you have not seen before. Focus on understanding WHY, not just WHAT.
Approximate weighting: 30% of the theory papers.
AO3: Experimental Skills and Investigations
This tests your ability to plan experiments, collect data, analyse results and evaluate methods.
What it looks like in the exam (Papers 5 and 6):
- “Describe how you would measure the resistance of the wire.”
- “Plot a graph of force against extension.”
- “Identify the anomalous result and suggest a reason for it.”
- “Suggest one improvement to the experimental method.”
How to prepare: Practise Paper 5/Paper 6 past papers. Understand how to plan experiments: independent variable, dependent variable, control variables, method of measurement, how to reduce errors.
Approximate weighting: 100% of the practical papers (Paper 5 or 6); also appears in theory papers.
Mark distribution across papers
| Paper | AO1 | AO2 | AO3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 2 (MCQ Extended) | ~50% | ~30% | ~20% |
| Paper 4 (Theory Extended) | ~50% | ~30% | ~20% |
| Paper 6 (Alt to Practical) | ~0% | ~20% | ~80% |
These are approximate. The exact distribution varies by session.
Why this matters for revision
Many students focus almost entirely on AO1 (memorising content). This is necessary but not sufficient. To score highly, you also need:
- AO2 skills: the ability to apply what you know to problems you have not seen before. This comes from practising varied questions, not from re-reading notes.
- AO3 skills: familiarity with experimental methods, data handling and evaluation. This comes from doing practical work or practising Paper 6 questions.
A balanced revision plan allocates time to all three: content review (AO1), problem-solving practice (AO2), and practical question practice (AO3).
Frequently Asked Questions
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Next useful steps
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