Question 1
Discuss the possible consequences of the imposition of an indirect tax on cigarettes for the different stakeholders in the market.
Answers may include:
- definitions of indirect tax and market
- theory to explain the implications for consumers;
for producers;
for the government
- diagram to show the application of a tax to illustrate the impacts on different stakeholders
- examples of use of indirect taxes and the impact on stakeholders in practice
- synthesis or evaluation (discuss).
Discussion may include: the advantages and disadvantages as applied to the different stakeholders and more generally in terms of society, for example reduced passive smoking for all as well as reduced consumption for individual consumers.
Examiners should be aware that candidates may take a different approach which, if appropriate, should be rewarded.
Opinions or conclusions should be presented clearly and should be supported by appropriate examples.
Assessment Criteria
Part (b) 15 marks
Level 0 (0 marks): The work does not reach a standard described by the descriptors below.
Level 1 (1-5 marks): There is little understanding of the specific demands of the question. Relevant economic terms are not defined. There is very little knowledge of relevant economic theory. There are significant errors.
Level 2 (6-9 marks): There is some understanding of the specific demands of the question. Some relevant economic terms are defined. There is some knowledge of relevant economic theory. There are some errors.
Level 3 (10-12 marks): There is understanding of the specific demands of the question. Relevant economic terms are defined. Relevant economic theory is explained and applied. Where appropriate, diagrams are included and applied. Where appropriate, examples are used. There is an attempt at synthesis or evaluation. There are few errors.
Level 4 (13-15 marks): There is clear understanding of the specific demands of the question. Relevant economic terms are clearly defined. Relevant economic theory is clearly explained and applied. Where appropriate, diagrams are included and applied effectively. Where appropriate, examples are used effectively. There is evidence of appropriate synthesis or evaluation. There are no significant errors.