Exam preparation Flashcards
What should I do if I’m asked to Describe a theory?
This is only asking you to describe a theory ,do not evaluate it or apply it to a scenario!
What should I do if I’m asked How the theory can be applied to the situation ?
This is asking you to explain how the theory would explain the behaviour of the person in the scenario. It’s checking you fully understand the theory.
What should I do if I’m asked to Analyse how the theory can be applied to the situation?
This is only asking for evaluation, therefore only explain the strengths and limitations of the theory. Don’t waste time explaining the theory as you won’t gain any marks for that.
What should I do if I’m asked to Describe the weaknesses?
Don’t discuss the strengths!
What should I do if I’m asked to Consider the strengths?
Don’t discuss the weaknesses!
What should I do if I’m asked to Assess which individualistic/social policies/treatments could be considered to prevent_______ from committing further crime?
Describe the policy and say if it could be successful to prevent the individual from re-offending.
What is the first thing you should do when you see a question?
Highlight keywords in the question and identify what AOs (AO1, AO2, AO3) are being tested.
How should you answer a 2–4 mark question?
Keep it brief and focused — define, describe or give one or two clear points.
(Usually AO1.)
How should you answer a 5–6 mark question?
Describe in more detail or apply knowledge to a scenario. Give developed points.
(Mix of AO1 and AO2.)
How should you structure an 8–10 mark answer?
Use PEEL paragraphs (Point, Evidence, Explain, Link), and include a small evaluation if possible.
(Usually includes AO3.)
How should you answer a 12-mark or extended question?
Full essay-style answer:
~Introduction (brief outline)
~2-3 PEEL paragraphs (detailed points with evidence)
~Evaluation (compare, strengths/weaknesses)
~Conclusion (clear judgment)
What are the key command words for AO1?
Define, Describe, Explain, State, Identify.
What are the key command words for AO2?
Apply, Use the scenario, Demonstrate.
What are the key command words for AO3?
Assess, Evaluate, Compare, Analyse, Discuss, To what extent.
What should you do if a question is about a scenario or case study?
Apply criminological theories or ideas directly to details in the scenario (AO2).
How can you show evaluation (AO3) in your answer?
Mention strengths, weaknesses, limitations, and make a judgment about how effective or accurate something is.
What is a good timing rule for exams?
Spend one minute per mark — e.g., 8 marks = 8 minutes.
What if you get stuck on a question?
Move on and come back later — don’t waste too much time.
What should you do at the end of your exam?
Check your answers:
~Have you answered every question?
~Have you applied theories where needed?
~Have you evaluated if required?
