Marking an economics evaluation response
A short essay evaluates an indirect tax using a supplied six-mark rubric.
The question
Evaluate the effectiveness of an indirect tax in reducing consumption of sugary drinks. (6 marks)
The marking guide
- 5–6 marks: accurate tax mechanism, developed evaluation using at least two relevant conditions, and a supported overall judgment. Award 6 when the reasoning is clear throughout; 5 for a minor omission.
- 3–4 marks: an accurate mechanism and some evaluation, with a limited or partly supported judgment. Award 4 for developed evaluation of one condition, 3 for a basic explanation.
- 1–2 marks: relevant statements with limited explanation. Award 2 for an accurate mechanism without evaluation; 1 for a relevant assertion.
- 0 marks: no relevant economic understanding.
The sample response
An indirect tax raises the cost of supplying sugary drinks. If producers pass the tax on to consumers, the higher price should reduce quantity demanded. The size of the fall depends on price elasticity of demand. Where consumers have strong habits and few substitutes they may keep buying, so the tax mainly raises revenue. Over time, access to cheaper unsweetened drinks could make switching easier and increase the response to the tax. Producers might also reformulate drinks to avoid it, reducing sugar intake even when the number of drinks sold changes little. The tax can therefore help, but consumption is more likely to fall substantially when consumers have practical substitutes and the price rise is passed through. I would use it alongside measures that improve access to alternatives, rather than expect the tax alone to achieve the full reduction.
Axtant’s mark and feedback
You meet the 5–6 mark level with an accurate explanation of how the tax can reduce consumption, developed evaluation of relevant conditions, and a supported overall judgment. Your reasoning is clear throughout.
Why the guide matters here
The judgment follows from conditions developed in the answer. The distinction between drink consumption and sugar intake adds precision to the evaluation.
A useful teaching follow-up
For an essay rubric, inspect the quality of the argument within the relevant band. Counting isolated keywords cannot establish a supported judgment.
Try it with your material
This practice question, guide and sample response were written for Axtant. The mark and feedback shown are Axtant’s own for that response.