0460/12 Cambridge IGCSE – Mark Scheme
PUBLISHED
October/Novembe
2020
© UCLES 2020 Page 3 of 23
Each question carries 25 marks. Candidates cannot earn above the maximum marks available within
each sub section.
The marking scheme attempts to give guidance about the requirements of each answer and lists a
number of responses, which will earn marks along with the general principles to be applied when
marking each question.
It should be noted that candidates can earn marks if their answers are phrased differently provided
they convey the same meaning as those in the mark scheme. THE CANDIDATES DO NOT NEED TO
USE THE SAME WORDING TO EARN MARKS.
The notation ‘etc.’ at the end of an answer in the mark scheme signifies that there may well be other
correct responses or examples that can be given credit. Providing the statement is true, relevant to
the question asked and not repetition of a previous point made credit should be given.
A point made within one sub-section which is an answer to the question set in a different sub-section
should not be given credit as each sub-section asks different questions which require independent
answers.
The mark scheme uses semi colons (;) to separate marks and diagonals to separate alternative
answers.
During coordination the mark scheme is modified to add points agreed after discussion or to delete
any points not allowed. All examiners should ensure that their modified scheme is fully up-to-date
before marking begins.
Marking Mechanics.
Point marking is used for sections (a) and (b) of each question, although marks are available in
specified questions for development of appropriate points. Ticks should be used to clearly indicate
where a mark has been allowed. Where a development point has been allowed the symbol ‘DEV’
should be placed adjacent to the tick. The number of ticks should always be equal to the total number
of marks awarded. Only one development mark for each mark scheme point please.
Where a candidate makes a point which is not quite sufficient for credit an upturned ‘V’ insert symbol
should be used. If after careful consideration a mark is awarded which gives ‘benefit of doubt’ to the
candidate the letter ‘J’ should be placed adjacent to the tick (i.e. the candidate has ‘just’ achieved the
mark).
Crosses are acceptable to signify wrong answers and the letters ‘I/R’ should be used to indicate those
which are irrelevant.
Levels of response marking is used for section (c) of each question.
Thus it is the quality of the response that determines which level an answer has achieved rather than
the quantity of statements contained within it. However, once assigned to a level the mark achieved
within that level is determined by the number of points made.
Levels 1 and 2 are distinguished by whether statements are simple (level 1) or developed/elaborated
(level 2). A candidate can immediately enter L2 by making developed points without making any L1
statements. In order to achieve L3 a candidate must have already reached the top end of L2 – in
addition his/her answer should have a clear example and if the answer is place specific as well (7
marks). Highlight place specific detail.