Criterion B: Knowledge & Understanding

At a glance

By the time you submit your essay, you should be able to say “yes” to all three:

• I use relevant research materials that help establish knowledge of the topic.

• I use subject specific terminology accurately and consistently.

• I explain and apply relevant concepts effectively in my discussion.

If you include irrelevant information, misunderstand terminology, or use concepts superficially, you will lose marks in Criterion B.

Strand 1: Knowledge

Guiding question: Do you use research materials that clearly establish knowledge of the subject matter?

What examiners look for

• You use material that is genuinely connected to your topic.

• Your sources help you build accurate knowledge.

• Your knowledge supports your argument and is not just background information.

What weak performance looks like

• Using irrelevant or disconnected sources.

• Long descriptive sections that do not help answer the research question.

• Copying or quoting too much instead of showing understanding.

Ask yourself

• Does each piece of knowledge directly support my research question?

• Could a specialist in the subject say that my understanding is correct?

Strand 2: Understanding Terminology

Guiding question: Do you use subject specific terminology accurately and consistently?

What examiners look for

• Correct subject vocabulary used naturally in your writing.

• Terminology that signals your understanding of the discipline.

Why it matters

Subjects are defined by their terms. Using them accurately shows you understand the field you are working in.

Example from the guide: using terms such as “cells”, “cytoplasm” and “lipid” correctly in Biology.

Ask yourself

• Am I using the correct terms for this field?

• Would a teacher in this subject agree that I am using the terminology accurately?

Strand 3: Understanding Concepts

Guiding question: Do you understand and apply the key concepts that belong to your subject?

What examiners look for

• Clear and relevant explanation of subject concepts.

• Concepts used effectively to develop your analysis.

Why it matters

Concepts are the foundation of disciplinary thinking. Using them properly shows you understand not only what happens, but why it matters.

Ask yourself

• Do I explain the significance of concepts rather than just naming them?

• Have I chosen concepts that genuinely belong to my subject?