Guidance

Astronomy: grade descriptors for GCSEs graded 9 to 1

Updated 6 September 2017

Applies to England

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1. Grade 8

To achieve grade 8, candidates will be able to:

  • demonstrate relevant and comprehensive scientific knowledge and understanding, using accurate astronomical terminology, and use it to explain ideas and concepts in familiar and unfamiliar contexts and, in relation to observations, make accurate predictions, suggest valid hypotheses or plan viable observations to test them
  • use a range of mathematical skills to solve complex scientific problems
  • critically analyse qualitative and quantitative data to draw logical, well-evidenced conclusions
  • critically evaluate and refine observational methodologies, and judge the validity of scientific conclusions

2. Grade 5

To achieve grade 5, candidates will be able to:

  • demonstrate mostly accurate and appropriate scientific knowledge and understanding, using mostly accurate astronomical terminology and use it to mostly accurately explain ideas and concepts in familiar and unfamiliar contexts and, in relation to observations, make predictions, suggest hypotheses or plan feasible observations to test them
  • use mathematics to perform multi-step calculations
  • analyse qualitative and quantitative data to draw plausible conclusions supported by some evidence
  • evaluate methodologies to suggest improvements to observational methods, and comment on scientific conclusions

3. Grade 2

To achieve grade 2, candidates will be able to:

  • demonstrate basic scientific knowledge and understanding, using simple everyday language, and use it to describe observational data or make simple predictions or suggestions
  • perform basic calculations
  • draw simple conclusions from qualitative or quantitative data
  • make basic comments relating to observational methods
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