For A-Level 2027 H1 Physics (8867), Paper 2 includes one or two compulsory data-based questions in Section A, worth 15–20 marks in total. Paper 2 lasts two hours, carries 80 marks and contributes 67% of the qualification.
Read the variables and units before choosing an equation. Then decide whether the question asks for a reading, a calculation or a judgement about a claim. The same graph can support different answers depending on the exact command.
- Read the axes, scale and units before extracting values.
- Use two well-separated points on a suitable line to estimate the gradient.
- Separate a trend in the measured range from a claim about values outside it.
Where the questions fit in Paper 2
Section A contains 60 compulsory marks and includes the data-based work. In Section B, choose one of two 20-mark questions. SEAB says answers are written in the spaces provided on the question paper.
To prepare, take a short data task and label each part by the action it asks for. A reading asks you to take a value from the data. A calculation asks you to work with that value. An evaluation asks how far the evidence supports a claim.
Worked example | Find a gradient and explain its units
Imagine a small trolley travels along a level track after it has reached a steady speed. An original set of practice measurements records distance from a marker as 0.20 m, 0.50 m, 0.80 m and 1.10 m at times 0, 1, 2 and 3 s. Plot distance on the vertical axis and time on the horizontal axis.
Using points at 0 and 3 s on the straight line through these readings, the gradient is (1.10 − 0.20) m divided by (3 − 0) s, which gives 0.30 m/s. The unit follows from what you divided. With scattered data, use points far apart on the fitted line when estimating its gradient, rather than choosing arbitrary measured points.
| Time (s) | Distance from marker (m) |
|---|---|
| 0 | 0.20 |
| 1 | 0.50 |
| 2 | 0.80 |
| 3 | 1.10 |
The intercept is 0.20 m. In this setup it represents the trolley’s distance from the marker at the chosen zero of time. It does not change the gradient. If you force the line through the origin and divide the final distance by 3 s, you include a starting distance the trolley did not travel during that interval.
Test a claim with the evidence
Suppose a question asks whether the distance is directly proportional to time. The plotted line is straight, but its intercept is above zero. The given distance from the marker is therefore not directly proportional to time. The increase in distance from the trolley’s starting position is proportional to time in this example.
If the claim instead says the trolley moves at constant speed between 0 and 3 seconds, the equal increases in distance over equal time intervals support it. State the interval. The measurements do not tell you whether it continues at the same speed after 3 s.
If one new reading is well off the fitted line, quantify the difference when the data allow it and consider what could explain it. A reading at 2 s of 0.65 m is 0.15 m below the 0.80 m value predicted by the line in this exercise. Look for instrument resolution, a recorded disturbance or further readings before judging the cause.
Practise with a different graph
Make a three-part question using the graph. Ask for one value, one calculation and one judgement. Answer each on a fresh line and mark where the numbers came from. Then reverse the axes or change the units to see whether you can rebuild the calculation.
Use a new context after the trolley exercise. For instance, consider a graph of force against extension. Start by explaining what the axes and gradient mean before interpreting the shape. A familiar shape can represent a different quantity when the axes change.
A study partner can ask “Which two values did you use?” and “What does this result show over the range measured?” If either answer is unclear, add the missing evidence or unit to the written response.
Frequently asked questions
How many data-based questions are there?
The published 8867 syllabus sets one or two in Section A, worth 15–20 marks in total.
Is a straight line enough to show direct proportion?
Check that the relationship is consistent with a line through the origin within the measurement limits. A clear nonzero intercept changes the conclusion.
Do these paper details apply to H2 Physics?
These details apply to 2027 H1 Physics (8867). Check the separate H2 syllabus for its assessment structure.
Official information
SEAB’s 2027 A-Level H1 Physics syllabus (8867), Scheme of Assessment, Paper 2 Section A. Checked 8 November 2026.