Cambridge IGCSE · Analysis & Prediction
2023 Cambridge IGCSE Sciences - Co-ordinated (Double) (0654) Past Paper: Analysis & Answers
The May/June 2023 series for Cambridge IGCSE Co-ordinated Sciences (0654) showcased a standard distribution of marks across Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. While candidate recall of fundamental concepts was solid, significant hurdles remained in the precise application of kinetic theory, quantitative conversions, and the articulation of specific physical mechanisms such as vasodilation and wave characteristics.
Updated: Jun 13, 2026
Paper breakdown
Examiner insights
Official reportCommon pitfalls
- Failing to convert metric units before substituting values into calculations, particularly with moments (using cm instead of m) and wave equations (using MHz instead of Hz).
- Using general, non-scientific terminology instead of specific required vocabulary (such as writing 'blood vessels expand' instead of 'arterioles dilate' for vasodilation).
- Omitting the production of water in the description of condensation polymerisation of nylon from dicarboxylic acid and diamine.
- Drawing energy profile change arrows that stretch to the peak of the curve rather than exactly representing the enthalpy change distance from reactants to products.
Misconceptions
- The belief that positive charges (protons) move when an insulator becomes electrostatically charged by friction, rather than only negative electrons transferring.
- Thinking that capillaries move physically closer to the skin surface during heat loss, rather than arterioles widening to let more blood pass through the existing capillaries.
- Assuming that any increase in reaction rate implies directly proportional relationships without checking if the ratios between dependent and independent factors are constant.
Where marks are lost
- Omission of units or incorrect units in final calculations, specifically with density (g/cm³) and moments (N m or N cm).
- Vague safety precautions in practical plans, such as saying 'be careful with acid' instead of stating the concrete action 'wear chemical-resistant goggles to protect eyes from corrosive acid splashes'.
- Poor sketching of lines of best fit that do not pass through the origin (0,0) or curves that do not flatten/level off as determined by the limiting reactant.
Estimated grade boundary
Updated: Jun 13, 2026
| Grade | Mark | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| A* | 184/240 | 77% |
| A | 154/240 | 64% |
| B | 124/240 | 52% |
| C | 95/240 | 40% |
| D | 81/240 | 34% |
| E | 68/240 | 28% |
Know what the examiners want. Now go get those marks
Thinka is an AI practice app used by 100,000+ students to drill questions and get instant feedback on every answer. You already know the high-frequency topics and where marks are lost. Now practice those specifically on Thinka and turn this analysis into actual marks.
Know what's tested? Drill those topics on Thinka. AI questions, instant marking.
Start Practising Free