Match the next step to the pattern in the paper
Look at a few lost-mark examples together. These are possible explanations to explore with the teacher, not diagnoses from a grade. In AQA GCSE maths, mock analysis can examine topics, assessment objectives and individual questions. The same question—“where did the difficulty begin?”—makes the conversation more useful in other subjects too.
Possible responses to different patterns in a mock paper.
| What you notice | What to establish | Possible next step |
|---|---|---|
A method or idea is missing | Has it been taught, and can your child explain the first step? | Ask for an explanation or worked example, then try a fresh question on that skill. |
They recognise the answer when shown it | Can they recall the idea without notes? | Try brief recall questions, use feedback to correct errors, then revisit the material. |
The answer misses the question’s demand | Did they understand what the task asked them to do? | Ask the teacher to model how to identify the task and build a relevant response. |
Several answers are unfinished | Was the cause time, uncertainty, slow recall or something else? | Compare an untimed attempt with the mock before choosing timed practice. |
Performance differs sharply from usual work | Did illness, distress or the assessment arrangements affect the attempt? | Discuss the circumstances and support needs with the relevant school contact. |