Discuss Asch’s research into variables affecting conformity.
Question 10
Discuss Asch’s research into variables affecting conformity. Refer to group size, unanimity and task difficulty in your answer.
[8 marks]
Mark scheme
What is expected in the answer?
The command word “discuss” requires students to demonstrate accurate knowledge of Asch’s research and evaluate what the research tells us about conformity. For 8 marks, students need a concise but developed response covering group size, unanimity and task difficulty, alongside relevant discussion rather than simply describing the variations.
The current AQA specification explicitly requires students to know variables affecting conformity, including group size, unanimity and task difficulty as investigated by Asch.
Marks for this question: AO1 = 4, AO3 = 4
Level | Marks | Description |
4 | 7–8 | Knowledge of Asch’s research into group size, unanimity and task difficulty is accurate and generally well detailed. Discussion is clear and effective, with evaluation explicitly related to Asch’s research and/or the conclusions that can be drawn about variables affecting conformity. The answer is coherent and focused, with effective use of specialist terminology. |
3 | 5–6 | Knowledge of Asch’s research is evident and all three variables are addressed, although there may be some omissions or minor inaccuracies. Discussion is mostly effective but may lack development or focus in places. Specialist terminology is mostly used appropriately. |
2 | 3–4 | Limited knowledge of Asch’s research is present. One or more of the required variables may be insufficiently explained. Discussion is limited, generic or only partly relevant. The answer may lack accuracy or organisation. |
1 | 1–2 | Knowledge is very limited or muddled. There may be little more than identification of variables or isolated details of Asch’s research. Discussion is absent or largely irrelevant. |
0 | 0 | No relevant content. |
AQA uses a best-fit approach to level-of-response questions, with credit based on the overall quality of knowledge and discussion rather than requiring every possible indicative point.
Indicative content
AO1: Knowledge and understanding
Credit accurate description of Asch’s basic procedure where relevant:
Participants completed a line-judgement task in a group containing confederates.
The real participant was required to give their answer after hearing the confederates give an obviously incorrect response on critical trials.
Asch then changed features of the situation to investigate variables affecting conformity.
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