'There have been many attempts to measure changes in living standards both within and between countries. Although some have been more useful than others, none of these alternative measures has produced a sufficiently accurate, reliable indicator of changes in living standards.' How far would you agree with this statement?

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (Oct/Nov 2019). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. Responses should explain different attempts to measure living standards and the key elements of each indicator. GDP per capita, Human Development Index(HDI), Measure of Economic Welfare(MEW), Multi-dimensional Poverty Index might be considered and, in each case, the extent to which they might represent a reliable indicator of changes in living standards.
2. L4 (18-25 marks): For an answer which provides a detailed analysis of two measures but also considers additional measures. The emphasis will be upon highlighting factors which affect living standards but are not addressed by any measure. A conclusion should then allow a judgement as to how far the candidate would agree with the statement under consideration.
3. L3 (14-17 marks): For an answer which identifies at least two alternative measures and analyses why they have been used to measure changes in living standards. Some comparative analysis should be used and there should be some indication of an attempt to discuss why neither measure would be completely accurate nor reliable.
4. L2 (10-13 marks): For a description of some measures, but which does not attempt to discuss their accuracy.
5. L1 (1-9 marks): For an answer that shows some knowledge but does not indicate that the question has been fully grasped or where the answer is mostly irrelevant.