10-mark questions are a critical part of IB Economics Papers 1 and 2, requiring both structured analysis and effective evaluation. Scoring full marks on these questions demands a clear approach, strong understanding of economic concepts, and the ability to balance depth with conciseness. In this guide, we’ll break down how to approach 10-mark questions step-by-step, with tips, sample structures, and real examples.
1. Understanding the 10-Mark Question
Where Do They Appear?
Paper 1: You will encounter 10-mark questions as the second part of the essays. Each question is worth 25 marks in total, split into:
Part (a): 10 marks (explanation-based)
Part (b): 15 marks (evaluation-heavy).
Paper 2: Each question is typically split into parts worth 4, 6, or 10 marks. The 10-mark question often requires application, analysis, and evaluation based on an extract.
Key Requirements
Explanation and Analysis: Demonstrate thorough knowledge of the economic theory or model in question.
Evaluation: Provide a well-balanced discussion of the issue, considering multiple perspectives and real-world relevance.
2. What Examiners Look For
Examiners grade 10-mark questions based on three primary criteria:
Knowledge and Understanding (4 marks):
Accurate definitions of key terms.
Clear and concise explanations of relevant concepts and theories.
Application and Analysis (4 marks):
Use of real-world examples to apply the theory.
Logical cause-and-effect relationships demonstrated through diagrams or data.
Evaluation (2 marks):
Strength and depth of evaluation (pros, cons, alternatives, long-term vs. short-term impacts).
Pro Tip: Even though evaluation is only 2 marks, failing to include it will significantly lower your overall score.
3. How to Structure a 10-Mark Answer
A clear structure is essential for maximizing marks. Here’s a reliable template you can use:
Introduction (2–3 sentences)
Define the key terms in the question.
Briefly explain the context or economic concept being tested.
State your focus or argument for the answer.
Example:"Market failure occurs when the allocation of resources in a free market is inefficient, often leading to negative externalities. This response will analyze how a government-imposed tax can address overconsumption of demerit goods, with consideration of its limitations."
Main Body: Explanation and Analysis (3–4 paragraphs)
Step 1: Explain the Economic Theory
Include relevant diagrams and explain their significance.
Break down the concept clearly (e.g., how taxes reduce overconsumption by internalizing externalities).
Step 2: Apply the Theory
Relate it to real-world examples, referencing specific cases or policies.
Use data where appropriate (e.g., "A carbon tax of $50 per ton implemented in Sweden led to a 25% reduction in emissions over 20 years.").
Step 3: Develop Analysis
Show cause-and-effect relationships.
Address "why" and "how" questions to deepen your argument.
Evaluation (1–2 paragraphs)
Pros and Cons: Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the concept or policy.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term: Highlight immediate impacts versus future consequences.
Alternative Approaches: Briefly mention other solutions and compare their effectiveness.
Real-World Context: Consider external factors (e.g., political, social, or global impacts).
Example:"While taxes effectively reduce consumption of demerit goods, they may disproportionately affect low-income groups, leading to regressive impacts. Alternatively, subsidies for healthier alternatives, such as subsidies for gym memberships, could complement the tax and enhance social welfare."
Conclusion (1–2 sentences)
Summarize your main points.
Address the "so what?" question by emphasizing the significance of your analysis.
Example:"In conclusion, while taxes can reduce the overconsumption of demerit goods, their effectiveness depends on the government’s ability to mitigate regressive effects and implement complementary policies."
4. Sample 10-Mark Question and Answer Outline
Question: “Explain how subsidies can address market failure and evaluate their effectiveness.”
Answer Outline:
Introduction:
Define market failure and subsidies.
State that subsidies can correct market failure by reducing the underconsumption of merit goods.
Explanation and Analysis:
Theory: Subsidies lower production costs, increasing supply and reducing price for consumers.
Diagram: Include a subsidy diagram showing the shift in supply and reduction in price.
Application: Use a real-world example, e.g., subsidies for solar panels in Germany increased renewable energy adoption by 40% between 2010 and 2020.
Analysis: Explain how subsidies address underconsumption and promote positive externalities.
Evaluation:
Advantages: Improves allocative efficiency, encourages socially desirable behavior.
Disadvantages: High opportunity cost for governments, risk of over-reliance by producers.
Real-World Limitations: Consider political constraints, inefficiency, or potential misallocation of resources.
Conclusion:
Summarize findings, e.g., "While subsidies are effective in addressing market failure, their success depends on the government’s ability to fund them sustainably and minimize inefficiencies."
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Forgetting Evaluation: A lack of evaluation means you can’t score full marks, even with perfect analysis.
Ignoring the Diagram: Diagrams are often central to your explanation and analysis—make sure they’re relevant and well-drawn.
Being Too Wordy: Stay concise. Avoid over-explaining simple points or repeating ideas.
Weak Application: Examiners expect specific, real-world examples. Avoid generic statements like “governments often subsidize public goods.”
Unbalanced Answers: Don’t focus solely on theory without addressing evaluation or real-world application.
6. Tips for Scoring Level 7
Practice with Past Papers: Familiarize yourself with the phrasing and demands of 10-mark questions.
Use Real-World Data: Examples with specific statistics or case studies add depth and credibility.
Balance Your Time: Spend 12–15 minutes on a 10-mark question during the exam—practice timing during revision.
Memorize Key Diagrams: Create a list of essential diagrams and practice drawing them quickly and accurately.
Plan Before Writing: Take 2–3 minutes to outline your answer before starting. A clear structure is critical.
7. Key Diagrams to Use for 10-Mark Questions
Supply and Demand with Tax/Subsidy: Perfect for questions on government intervention.
Externalities Diagram: For analyzing market failures like pollution or healthcare under-provision.
AD-AS Diagram: Essential for macroeconomic topics like fiscal or monetary policy.
Tariffs and Quotas Diagram: For international economics questions on trade restrictions.
Conclusion
Mastering 10-mark questions in IB Economics requires clarity, structure, and depth. By defining terms, using diagrams effectively, and incorporating real-world examples, you can craft answers that meet examiner expectations and secure top marks. Practice is key—apply the strategies in this guide to past papers and refine your approach to ensure success.