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Inter-subject comparability studies

Last updated on: 08/04/2008

Four investigations, or studies, were carried out to address issues regularly raised on standards across subjects at A level. The scope of two of these studies also extended to GCSE level. Subject experts, with a background in assessment, were employed as reviewers to analyse assessment materials and candidate work across two or more cognate subjects, to draw comparisons and highlight differences in demand.

The four studies focused on the following areas:

Study 1a: Comparisons at GCSE, AS and A level using selected specifications across geography and history (Ref: QCA/08/3561, May 2008)

Study 1b: Comparisons at GCSE, AS and A level using selected specifications across biology, chemistry and physics and, at GCSE, science (double award). (Ref: QCA/08/3562, May 2008)

Study 2a: Comparisons at A level using selected specifications across biology, psychology and sociology. (Ref: QCA/08/3563, May 2008)

Study 2b: Comparisons at A level using selected specifications across English literature, history and media studies Each study involved an evaluation of the demands implied by the syllabus materials within each subject at each level, and a comparison of candidates' work across each subject. (Ref: QCA/08/3564, May 2008)

The outcomes of each study are outlined in this report. (Ref: QCA/08/3568, February 2008)

This document was published by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA). The regulatory function of QCA is now the responsibility of the Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator (Ofqual). Ofqual regulates qualifications and monitors national curriculum assessments in England.