"An investigation to find out the optimum temperature for the activity of Lipase".

Review of essay

Rating: 3 star(s)

Response to the question

The writer has written a basic but adequate investigation and has touched on all the relevant subheadings in varying detail. Covering introduction, methodology, hypothesis, discussion, conclusion and evaluation. This is an important part of A level practical investigations as it shows you are aware of the appropriate scientific approach when presenting your findings. The problem with this piece is that while areas such as evaluation and discussion are covered in apparent depth, the explanation of the method, aim and introduction could have linked in a few more areas of biology to demonstrate a breadth to their response, this is what impresses examiners. For example mentioning the genetic role of enzyme formation and the different types of bonds that can be present in a biological catalyst. In addition they did not find a reliable answer to their question therefore identification of anomalous results and omission of these from the final conclusion would have shown an awareness of what they had mentioned in their hypothesis i.e. the optimum is likely to be around 40 degrees. Examiners expect you to be aware of basic scientific knowledge and use it in conjunction with the findings of your investigation.

Level of analysis

Certain aspects were analysed to a good depth such as an extensive explanation of where and why certain inaccuracies may have occurred and a suggestion of possible improvements. However I found the safety procedures to not be sufficient for an A level piece, a higher mark would be achieved by looking at a wider range of hazards and assessing their risk for this particular investigation, this is a key part of the science syllabus and shows foresight which is vital for keeping everyone safe. The discussion was repetitive at times which gains you no extra marks and simply wastes time, especially when mentioning how enzymes work, always give your work a read through to ensure it flows. Examiners would prefer to see a more in-depth methodology with better clarity so that reliability is demonstrated, for example ensuring you are making clear in how many test tubes you are putting each volume of substance etc. Repeating the investigation would have also enhanced the reliability and improved the mark, as this is ensuring an average can be obtained which is part of the A level science mark scheme.

Quality of writing

Spelling and typing errors were consistent throughout and this affected the fluency of the piece, proof-reading is important as it ensures everything makes sense and is clear enough for an examiner to find what they are looking for. Quality of communication is always marked.