Component 4 – Cambridge Research Report (A Level) flashcards

Topic 4: Component 4 – Cambridge Research Report

How is the Cambridge Research Report (Component 4) marked?

85 marks: the research report 75 and the research log 10. It is externally marked, taken only on an A Level route, and is worth 50% of the A Level.

What are the length rules for the Cambridge Research Report?

Up to 5000 words, with an accurate word count stated; work beyond 5000 words is not marked. The title and bibliographical references are not counted, and the log is outside the limit.

What form must the Research Report title take?

A question that leads to a debate, and an open one rather than a loaded one. "Urban farming" is a topic; "Should cities give public land to urban farming?" is a question. "Why is X harmful?" is loaded: it assumes its answer.

How does the 9239 syllabus define a perspective?

"A coherent world view which is a response to an issue": made up of argument, evidence and assumptions, and possibly shaped by context.

What is the difference between primary and secondary evidence?

Primary: first-hand information such as documents, texts, artefacts, observations, interviews and surveys. Secondary: specialists' arguments and opinions that reflect on or synthesise primary evidence.

What is the difference between research methods and methodology?

Methods are what you did: the ways you gather and analyse evidence. Methodology is why those methods suit your subject, and how they shape what you can conclude.

What is the research log for?

A separate record of information, plans, findings, decisions and reflection, worth 10 marks. It should record decisions and the reasons for them, not just dates and tasks, and must not be used to stretch the word limit.

What does the research proposal outline, and is it marked?

The research question, the key concepts, an outline of the debate and example sources. It is approved by your teacher and submitted, but not externally marked.

How are the assessment objectives weighted in Component 4?

AO1 65%, AO2 20%, AO3 15%.

Which Critical Path stages are mapped to Component 4?

Deconstruction, reconstruction, reflection and communication. Collaboration is not part of this component.

What is the difference between a summary and a judgement in the report?

A summary repeats both sides. A judgement weighs them and says which is stronger and why.

What two kinds of reflection does AO2 want in the Research Report?

How other perspectives changed your thinking, and the scope and limits of your own research.