AQA GCSE Engineering Unit 1 2025 Mark Scheme

Download the official AQA GCSE Engineering (8852/W) Unit 1 Written Paper mark scheme from the June 2025 exam series. This is the final v1.0 examiner-approved mark scheme used during standardisation to ensure consistent marking across all candidates.

This mark scheme provides:
• Full multiple-choice answers (Question 1)
• Step-by-step calculation methods and working marks
• Level-of-response descriptors for extended questions
• Indicative content and examiner guidance for all answers

For example:

- Page 5 provides the full answer key for Question 1 (e.g. Q1 = Cast iron, Q5 = Light sensor, Q8 = Toughness)
- Page 9 shows the full worked solution for the rack and pinion calculation (17.5 seconds)
- Page 11 includes the full area calculation for the metal plate (9600 mm²)
- Page 16 provides the pressure calculation solution (1.77 N/mm²)
- Page 18 shows the maximum force calculation for the column (6800 N)
- Page 26 includes the full manufacturing cost calculation (£7.18 per unit)

The mark scheme also explains how marks are awarded using level-based marking. For example:

• Level 2–3 responses include clear reasoning and justification
• Higher-level responses include detailed analysis, evaluation, and use of engineering terminology
• Extended questions (e.g. product lifespan, sensors vs switches) are assessed using structured evaluation criteria

It includes indicative content for all major topics:
• Materials (metals, polymers, composites)
• Manufacturing processes (injection moulding, cutting methods)
• Mechanical systems and motion
• Electronics (logic gates, circuits, sensors)
• Systems and control (flowcharts, testing methods)
• Engineering calculations (stress, pressure, resistance, cost)

For example, the evaluation question on page 23 outlines how to discuss product lifespan, including planned obsolescence, maintenance, and sealed components, with Level 4 answers requiring full evaluation across all factors.

This mark scheme is essential for understanding exactly how examiners award marks and what is required to achieve top grades.

This mark scheme is designed for GCSE Engineering students studying AQA 8852, particularly Year 10–11 students preparing for exams or aiming for grades 6–9. It is especially useful for those practising past papers.

Teachers and tutors can use this document for marking, standardisation, and teaching exam technique. It is also ideal for independent learners and home-schooled students.