| Exam Board | Edexcel |
|---|---|
| Module | S3 (Statistics 3) |
| Marks | 6 |
| Paper | Download PDF ↗ |
| Mark scheme | Download PDF ↗ |
| Topic | Non-parametric tests |
| Type | Quota sampling methods |
| Difficulty | Easy -1.8 This is a pure recall question testing definitions and basic understanding of sampling methods. It requires no calculation, problem-solving, or mathematical reasoning—just memorization of textbook content about sampling techniques. Well below average difficulty for A-level maths. |
| Spec | 2.01c Sampling techniques: simple random, opportunity, etc |
| Answer | Marks | Guidance |
|---|---|---|
| Part (a): divide population into distinct groups; sample sizes from each group determined by proportions in population; sample any member of group until quota is filled | B3 | |
| Part (b): e.g. non-random sample within strata so may be biased | B1 | |
| Part (c): e.g. survey on political attitudes according to age group; too time-consuming / impractical to random sample within strata | B2 | (6 marks total) |
**Part (a):** divide population into distinct groups; sample sizes from each group determined by proportions in population; sample any member of group until quota is filled | B3 |
**Part (b):** e.g. non-random sample within strata so may be biased | B1 |
**Part (c):** e.g. survey on political attitudes according to age group; too time-consuming / impractical to random sample within strata | B2 | (6 marks total)
---\begin{enumerate}[label=(\alph*)]
\item Explain briefly the method of quota sampling. [3]
\item Give one disadvantage of quota sampling compared with stratified sampling. [1]
\item Describe a situation in which you would choose to use quota sampling rather than stratified sampling and explain why. [2]
\end{enumerate}
\hfill \mbox{\textit{Edexcel S3 Q1 [6]}}