In Unit 4, Topics 1 and 2 are assessed in the assessment instrument: Examination -
extended response worth 25% of the total final mark for the subject.
The examination has some similar elements to the extended response component of IA1: it is an extended response to stimulus. However, the
response is longer, and there is only one question provided. In addition, there are both seen and unseen stimulus. The question and
sources must be unfamiliar to validly assess higher order skills (i.e. not only from memory) and so students cannot pre-prepare a
written response.
The extended response is an analytical essay, so an introduction and conclusion is required, as are linking statements to add cohesion. Students will need to understand how an analytical essay structure is different to an informative, argumentative, historical essay, and any other essay sub-modes. Clear communication of key points, details, examples and support for statements require clear signposting and is assisted by a well planned response prior to writing. Planning is a critical skill when students have unfamiliar and unseen sources. The time limit of the examination allows for planning to occur.
The 2025 syllabus has detailed information about writing analytical essays in Economics (see page 10). Link
The QCAA portal > Syllabus > Resources has information to support IA3 when making judgments. The Unpacking internal assessment terminology resource provides discussion starters to help unpack relevant instrument-specific marking guide (ISMG) descriptors. The aim is to encourage deeper conversations about the qualities of student responses and the types of evidence that demonstrate achievement. Link
The syllabus contains a description and specifications for the assessment for this topic. These must be followed, and are quality assured at Endorsement (in February for IA3).
Refer to page 38 and 39 of the Economics syllabus for the specifications and conditions. Link
The subject report is written each year and contains important information for both assessment design and assessment decisions.
| Link to 2026 | In 2026, the Chief Endorser report is produced first to support assessment design at Endorsement. |
| Link to 2025 Link to 2024 | Both these links are to the 2019 syllabus, which is quite similar as the Selecting criterion was merged into other syllabus objectives in the 2025 syllabus version. 2024 Subject report has some ideas for assessment topics. |
| QCAA Portal (available to Queensland registered teachers only) Link | Planning Link to page | Writing in Economics Link to page |
| QCAA public samples Link |
Analytical essay vs informative essays Link |
Endorsement criteria Link |
| Analysis graphic organiser Link | Logical chains of reasoning and transitions Link |
There are many advantages for teachers who are members.
