How to Answer 6-Mark Questions in IGCSE Physics

Six-mark questions are the longest written responses in IGCSE Physics Paper 4. They test your ability to organise a clear, logical answer with enough physics detail to earn full marks.

What examiners look for

A 6-mark question typically has a levels-of-response mark scheme. Your answer is assessed as a whole and placed into a level:

• Level 3 (5 to 6 marks): a detailed, well-organised answer using correct physics terminology. Points are logically sequenced with clear cause-and-effect reasoning.
• Level 2 (3 to 4 marks): some correct physics but with gaps, vague language, or poor organisation.
• Level 1 (1 to 2 marks): isolated correct points with no logical structure.
• 0 marks: no relevant physics.

Strategy for answering

1. Read the question twice. Underline the command word (describe, explain, compare, discuss) and the topic.

2. Plan before writing. Spend 1 minute listing 6 to 8 bullet points. This prevents you from writing a long answer that circles back on itself.

3. Write in short, clear sentences. One physics point per sentence. Avoid compound sentences that try to say two things at once.

4. Use physics vocabulary. Replace everyday words with technical terms. “Gets hotter” becomes “temperature increases.” “Bounces off” becomes “is reflected.”

5. Show cause and effect. Use linking phrases: “because,” “this causes,” “as a result,” “therefore.” A description without a cause earns fewer marks than a full explanation.

6. Follow a logical sequence. If describing a process, go step by step in the order things happen.

Example: explain how a transformer works (6 marks)

Weak answer: “A transformer has two coils and changes voltage. The current goes through and comes out different.”

Strong answer: “An alternating current flows through the primary coil. This creates a changing magnetic field in the soft iron core. The changing magnetic field passes through the secondary coil (the coils are linked by the core). The changing magnetic field induces an alternating potential difference across the secondary coil (electromagnetic induction). The ratio of the output voltage to the input voltage equals the ratio of the number of turns on the secondary coil to the number of turns on the primary coil (Vs/Vp = Ns/Np). If the secondary coil has more turns, the voltage is stepped up; if it has fewer turns, the voltage is stepped down.”

Timing

Allow 8 to 10 minutes for a 6-mark question. That includes 1 minute for planning and 7 to 9 minutes for writing. Do not rush; a shorter, well-structured answer scores higher than a long, disorganised one.