Higher Business Management

How to answer Section 2 questions

Section 2 has five questions worth 8 marks each, in one to three parts, from any area of study. The command word tells you what earns each mark.

Marks40, five questions of 8 marks
PartsOne to three in each question
AreasAny of the five
TimeAbout 15 minutes a question

Answer to the command word

  • Identify, state or outline: a correct point for each mark, in a sentence.
  • Describe: each point with enough detail to show what it is or how it works.
  • Explain or discuss: each point with its reason or consequence, using words such as so, because or which means.
  • Compare: both things in the same sentence, saying how they differ or are alike. Justify: a decision with the reason that supports it.

Count your points

Before you write, jot down how many points the marks ask for and one more in case one is not credited. Write each one in its own sentence so the marker can see it.

Try 2 questions

Question 1
The graph shows yearly sales of Highland Fizz lemonade. What is the most likely explanation for the change in sales after year 7?
Question 2
Paisley Print Ltd: staff survey
Part of the jobStaff who are satisfied
Pay78%
Working conditions81%
Recognition for good work22%
Responsibility30%
Chances of promotion25%
Staff turnover is high at Paisley Print Ltd. The table shows the share of staff satisfied with each part of their job. The managing director proposes a pay rise. Using Herzberg's theory, what does the survey suggest?

Next step

Questions people ask

Can Section 2 questions come from any area?

Yes. The five questions can come from any of the five areas of study, so revise them all.

Do I need an example business in Section 2?

Not always: many Section 2 questions ask about business in general. Where a short context is given, use it.