Evaluation In A Level Economics - Basics

Gaining Evaluation Marks in A Level Economics - The Basics

Evaluation marks can make the difference between a reasonable grade and a top grade in A level Economics. Consider the A2 essays - they are worth 25 marks, but 9 of those marks are reserved for evaluation.

So how do we evaluate?

How do we evaluate when we are feeling nervous and cannot remember what to do?

Hopefully these quick reminders will be of help in answering both of the above questions.

For basic evaluation points, think of your watch:

TIME: ;

The effect of most things depends on time.

"It takes time for the effect of a fiscal injection or a reduction in interest rates to multiply through the economy."

"Supply side policies such as direct investment in the HS2 project can take a long time to work."

SIZE (of the watch dial)

The effect of most changes depends on the size of the change.

"The effect of a reduction in the base interest rate depends on how large the reduction is."

"The effect of an appreciation in the pound depends on the size of the appreciation."

ELASTICITY (of the watch strap)

The effect of most things depends on elasticity.

"The effect of an increase in AD depends on the proximity of the economy to full employment output."

"The effect of a fall in the price of Diet Coke depends on the PED of Diet Coke"

When you feel a little lost, always think of your watch - remember TIME, SIZE and ELASTICITY and that will help you to start getting those evaluation marks.

Remember to expand each evaluation point in the higher mark questions - explain why your evaluative statement is true. Evaluate the evaluation too if you can - explain why your point might not be that important after all.

Remember to contextualise too - if the question is about fruit, make your evaluation about fruit. If it is about a named LEDC, them make it relevant to that named LEDC.

(c) Gavin Hall 2024