What is the format for the Edexcel GCSE Statistics (9-1) Exams?

Choosing what GCSEs to study is an important decision and one of the factors may be the format of the exams and whether it will suit you or your son or daughter.

Here we breakdown the exam structure, question types and timing to help inform your decision on whether GCSE Statistics is the right choice for you.

Foundation or Higher

Edexcel GCSE Statistics is offered at the Foundation or Higher tier so when entering for the exams you must choose which level you want to sit.

• Grades 1-5 are available if sitting the Foundation tier.

• Grades 4 - 9 are available if sitting the Higher tier, though sometimes a grade 3 may be awarded if deemed appropriate.

Our GCSE Statistics course covers both Foundation and Higher material, clearly specifying what is only needed for the Higher tier. You do not need to decide what tier to study before purchasing the course so your options are kept open.

Exam Structure and Duration

Edexcel GCSE Statistics (9-1) consists of two exam papers. There is no coursework.

Each exam paper is 1 hour and 30 minutes long and is out of 80 marks.

• You must answer all questions.

• All topics may be examined in either paper.

• Calculators are allowed.

A formulae sheet is provided for the Higher tier exam papers. However, there are a number of formulae that must be remembered. We provide a useful summary of all the formulae you need to know and whether you have to remember them or if they are provided in the exam.

Questions on the exam papers tend to use real life statistics and scenarios.

Types of Questions to Expect

The exam covers a variety of question types to assess different skills:

• Short response questions

These may be worth 1 or 2 marks and could involve a short calculation or explanation.

• Medium response questions

These questions may involve discussing the outcome or appropriateness of a statistical investigation. Alternatively, the question could comprise a longer calculation, such as for 3 marks.

• Extended response questions

Each paper at both tiers will always include an extended response question. These are usually worth 5 or 6 marks and require students to use the information in the question to determine the steps required.

The exam questions for Edexcel GCSE Statistics (9-1) comprise a mixture of calculations and interpretation. It is important to be aware that the answers to the questions will involve some writing and not just calculations.

Is GCSE Statistics right for me?

Both Foundation and Higher exam papers are designed to enable students of all abilities to demonstrate their knowledge and skills, whilst also ensuring students are sufficiently stretched to gain the higher grades.

If you are considering studying for the Edexcel GCSE Statistics (9-1) you may be interested in looking at a past paper to see the style and format in more detail. Past papers from previous years are available to access for free from the Pearson website.

GCSE Statistics is a great choice but, obviously, it may suit some students more than others.

You may find some of our sample resources and video lessons useful to inform your decision. If you have any questions or would like to discuss further, we would be happy to help.