Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Do students need to have studied home economics to any particular level to be able to take this course?

A. No, students are not required to have any prior experience of home economics.


Q. What grades can students be awarded for this specification?

A. We award GCSE qualifications on an eight grade scale from A*–G, with A* being the highest.  If students fail to attain a grade G, we report their results as unclassified (U).


Q. Are there any prohibited combinations for this course?

A. No, there are no prohibited combinations for this course.


Q. Are students assessed on the quality of their written communication?

A. Yes, students must demonstrate the quality of their written communication. 
In particular, they must:

  • ensure that text is legible and that spelling, punctuation and grammar are accurate so that meaning is clear;
  • select and use a form and style of writing appropriate to their purpose and to complex subject matter; and
  • organise information clearly and coherently, using specialist vocabulary where appropriate.

xaminers assess the quality of students’ written communication in their responses to questions and tasks requiring extended writing.  We assess the quality of written communication in all assessment objectives and examination components in this specification.

Q. What Key Skills can students gain by taking this course?

A. This specification provides opportunities for students to develop the following Key Skills:

  • Application of Number;
  • Communication;
  • Improving Own Learning and Performance;
  • Information and Communications Technology;
  • Problem-Solving; and
  • Working with Others.