Answering a science essay question requires a clear approach to cover all parts of the question, show your understanding, and present a strong argument. Here are the best steps to follow:
1. Deconstruct the Question (The Most Crucial Step):
- Read Carefully and Multiple Times: Don’t just skim. Read the question at least two or three times.
- Identify Keywords and Command Terms:
- Keywords: These are the essential terms, concepts, or topics you must address. Highlight them.
- Command Terms: These tell you what to do with the information. Examples include:
- Analyze: Break down into components and explain relationships.
- Evaluate: Assess the strengths and weaknesses, weigh evidence, and make a judgment.
- Discuss: Present a balanced argument with different perspectives.
- Compare/Contrast: Identify similarities and differences.
- Explain: Give a detailed account of how or why something happens.
- Describe: Give a factual account of characteristics or features.
- Justify: Provide reasons and evidence to support a statement.
- Propose: Suggest a plan or theory.
- Understand the Scope: What is the question not asking? Avoid irrelevant information.
- Determine the Mark Allocation: The number of marks often indicates the expected depth and detail of your answer. A 6-mark question will require more depth than a 2-mark question.
2. Brainstorm and Gather Information:
- Activate Prior Knowledge: What do you already know about the keywords and concepts?
- Recall Relevant Theories, Concepts, and Examples: Think of specific examples, experiments, scientists, or real-world applications that relate to the question.
- Consider Different Perspectives: If the question involves a debate or discussion, think about different viewpoints.
- Identify Diagrams or Equations: Are there any relevant diagrams, graphs, or equations that would enhance your answer? Plan where to include them.
3. Plan Your Response (Create an Outline):
- Structure is Key: A well-structured answer is easier to read and understand.
- Introduction:
- No need to restate the question
- Body Paragraphs (PEEL Structure is Excellent for Science): Each paragraph should focus on a single main idea related to the question.
- P (Point): State the main idea of the paragraph clearly and concisely.
- E (Explain/Elaborate): Elaborate on your point. Define terms, explain processes, and describe concepts.
- E(Evidence/Example): Provide specific scientific evidence, data, examples, or real-world applications to support your point. This is where you demonstrate your knowledge.
- L (Link): Link your point back to the main question and/or to the next paragraph. Ensure a logical flow.
4. Write Your Response:
- Adhere to Your Plan: Stick to your outline to maintain focus and coherence.
- Clear and Concise Language: Use precise language. Avoid jargon where simpler terms suffice, but use technical terms correctly when necessary.
- Logical Flow: Use transition words and phrases (e.g., “therefore,” “in addition,” “however,” “consequently”) to connect ideas and ensure smooth transitions between paragraphs.
- Include Diagrams/Equations: If you planned to include them, ensure they are clearly drawn, labeled, and referred to in your text.
- Answer All Parts of the Question: Double-check that you have addressed every aspect of the prompt.
5. Review and Refine:
- Read Through Your Answer: Read your entire response to check for clarity, coherence, and accuracy.
- Check for Scientific Accuracy: Are your facts correct? Are your explanations scientifically sound?
- Proofread for Errors: Look for spelling, grammar, and punctuation mistakes. These can detract from the quality of your answer.
- Ensure it Directly Answers the Question: Did you actually answer what was asked, or did you go off-topic?
- Check Against Mark Scheme (if possible): If you have access to a rubric or mark scheme, use it to assess if you’ve hit all the required points.
- Time Management: If this is an exam setting, allocate time for reviewing.
The examiner will only see the section of your script that contains the space to write your response. Writing outside of this will not be seen. Make sure you use the continuation sheets if you need more space.
Practical Science 