Business Studiess - Aqa - Buss3

No excuses for not knowing what to expect in terms of the paper format: . Marks available: 80 . Duration: 105 minutes . Four questions; no choice . Exam based on an unseen case study comprising descri ptive text and appendices. . Three questions focusing on 3 of the 4 main functional areas (HRM, Finance, Marketing, Operations); although all three answers need to make connections between the functional areas and also refer to corporate / functional objectives . Functional questions: one analytical question (worth 10 marks); two evaluative questions (typically 16-18 marks each) . Final question: 34-36 marks focusing on evaluation of the strategic options/choices for the business

The case study contains all the information you need to develop high quality answers to all four questions. So use it! Address the context provided by the case study. Remember that the skill of application opens the door to achieve good analysis and access the highest levels of evaluation. Focus relentlessly on the evidence provided in the case study. Draw on the evidence provided of the market/s the business operates in; the structure of the firm (ownership, management etc.); the resources available to the business; the external influences that are most significant to the business. Look out for potential conflicts between the different functional strategies and also dependencies. Think about what success will depend on and which of these factors is likely to be the most significant to the firm.

In BUSS3 it is the depth and quality of the points you make that counts, not how many points you make. Bullet point lists are no use to you in BUSS3. To reach the higher levels of the mark schemes you have to develop your relevant points and build a logical chain of argument that makes reference to, and is supported by the evidence in the case study. A great way to build depth in each answer is to make the connections between the main functional areas of the case study business. Every chosen functional strategy will have implications for other functions. Explain these connections and develop your points to explain their significance. An effective way to do this is to explain "cause and effect". The use of "connectives" is the technique that helps you achieve Level 4/5 for KAA (knowledge, application and analysis). Connective words or phrases help you write longer sentences and connect them to build an in-depth paragraph with a strong chain of argument. Examples of connectives include: . .this will mean. . .as a result. . .a consequence of this might be that. . .because. . .this is likely to lead to. . .although this will depend on.