Syllabus

Cambridge O Level
Food & Nutrition 6065
For examination in June and November 2020, 2021 and 2022.

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Version 2
Please check the syllabus page at www.cambridgeinternational.org/olevel
to see if this syllabus is available in your administrative zone.
 Changes to the syllabus for 2020, 2021 and 2022
The syllabus has been updated. The latest syllabus is version 2, published February 2018.

Changes have been made to section 6.3 (Serving and appearance) and section 6.5 to specify that
centres should provide colour photographs as hard copy for moderation purposes.

   Changes to version 2 of the syllabus are indicated by double black vertical lines either side of the text.

  Significant changes to version 1 of the syllabus are indicated by black vertical lines either side of the
text.

You are strongly advised to read the whole syllabus before planning your teaching programme.

Cambridge Assessment International Education is part of the Cambridge Assessment Group. Cambridge Assessment is
the brand name of the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES), which itself is a department of the
University of Cambridge.
UCLES retains the copyright on all its publications. Registered centres are permitted to copy material from this booklet for
their own internal use. However, we cannot give permission to centres to photocopy any material that is acknowledged to a
third party even for internal use within a centre.
Contents

1. Introduction...................................................................................................................... 2
1.1 Why choose Cambridge International?
1.2 Why choose Cambridge O Level?
1.3 Why choose Cambridge O Level Food & Nutrition?
1.4 How can I find out more?

2. Teacher support............................................................................................................... 5
2.1 Support materials
2.2 Endorsed resources
2.3 Training

3. Assessment at a glance................................................................................................... 6

4. Syllabus aims and assessment objectives....................................................................... 7

4.1 Syllabus aims
4.2 Assessment objectives
4.3 Relationship between assessment objectives and components
4.4 Notes

5. Syllabus content............................................................................................................. 10

6. Practical Test.................................................................................................................. 13
6.1 Role of the Practical Examiner
6.2 Practical Test administration
6.3 Generic mark scheme
6.4 Practical Test Working Mark Sheet
6.5 Practical Test Summary Mark Sheet
6.6 Note on internal moderation

7. Other information........................................................................................................... 19
Introduction

1. Introduction

1.1 Why choose Cambridge International?

Cambridge Assessment International Education prepares school students for life, helping them develop an
informed curiosity and a lasting passion for learning. We are part of the University of Cambridge.

Our international qualifications are recognised by the world’s best universities and employers, giving
students a wide range of options in their education and career. As a not-for-profit organisation, we devote
our resources to delivering high-quality educational programmes that can unlock learners’ potential.

Our programmes and qualifications set the global standard for international education. They are created
by subject experts, rooted in academic rigour and reflect the latest educational research. They provide a
strong platform for students to progress from one stage to the next, and are well supported by teaching and
learning resources.

Every year, nearly a million Cambridge learners from 10 000 schools in 160 countries prepare for their future
with an international education from Cambridge International.

Cambridge learners
Our mission is to provide educational benefit through provision of international programmes and
qualifications for school education and to be the world leader in this field. Together with schools, we
develop Cambridge learners who are:
• confident in working with information and ideas – their own and those of others
• responsible for themselves, responsive to and respectful of others
• reflective as learners, developing their ability to learn
• innovative and equipped for new and future challenges
• engaged intellectually and socially, ready to make a difference.

Recognition
Cambridge O Level is internationally recognised by schools, universities and employers as equivalent in
demand to Cambridge IGCSE® (International General Certificate of Secondary Education). There are over
700 000 entries a year in nearly 70 countries. Learn more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/recognition

Support for teachers

A wide range of materials and resources is available to support teachers and learners in Cambridge schools.
Resources suit a variety of teaching methods in different international contexts. Through subject discussion
forums and training, teachers can access the expert advice they need for teaching our qualifications. More
details can be found in Section 2 of this syllabus and at www.cambridgeinternational.org/teachers

Support for exams officers

Exams officers can trust in reliable, efficient administration of exams entries and excellent personal support
from our customer services. Learn more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/examsofficers

2 Cambridge O Level Food & Nutrition 6065. Syllabus for examination in 2020, 2021 and 2022.
 Introduction

Our systems for managing the provision of international qualifications and education programmes
for learners aged 5 to 19 are certified as meeting the internationally recognised standard for quality
management, ISO 9001:2008. Learn more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/ISO9001

1.2 Why choose Cambridge O Level?

Cambridge O Levels have been designed for an international audience and are sensitive to the needs of
different countries. These qualifications are designed for students whose first language may not be English
and this is acknowledged throughout the examination process. The Cambridge O Level syllabus also allows
teaching to be placed in a localised context, making it relevant in varying regions.

Our aim is to balance knowledge, understanding and skills in our programmes and qualifications to enable
students to become effective learners and to provide a solid foundation for their continuing educational
journey.

Through our professional development courses and our support materials for Cambridge O Levels, we
provide the tools to enable teachers to prepare students to the best of their ability and work with us in the
pursuit of excellence in education.

Cambridge O Levels are considered to be an excellent preparation for Cambridge International AS & A Levels,
the Cambridge AICE (Advanced International Certificate of Education) Diploma, Cambridge Pre-U, and other
education programmes, such as the US Advanced Placement program and the International Baccalaureate
Diploma programme. Learn more about Cambridge O Levels at www.cambridgeinternational.org/olevel

Guided learning hours

Cambridge O Level syllabuses are designed on the assumption that learners have about 130 guided learning
hours per subject over the duration of the course, but this is for guidance only. The number of hours required
to gain the qualification may vary according to local curricular practice and the students’ prior experience of
the subject.

1.3 Why choose Cambridge O Level Food & Nutrition?

Cambridge O Levels are established qualifications that keep pace with educational developments and
trends. The Cambridge O Level curriculum places emphasis on broad and balanced study across a wide
range of subject areas. The curriculum is structured so that students attain both practical skills and
theoretical knowledge.

Cambridge O Level Food & Nutrition is accepted by universities and employers as proof of knowledge and
understanding of food and nutrition. Successful Cambridge O Level Food & Nutrition candidates gain lifelong
skills, including:
• an understanding of nutrition and of health problems related to diet
• an understanding of how socio-economic factors affect diet
• an awareness of how eating patterns and dietary needs depend on age and social group
• an awareness of how the position of the consumer differs in developed and less-developed economies
• the ability to assess the effectiveness and validity of claims made by advertisers
• aesthetic and social sensitivity to dietary patterns
• an interest in the creative aspect and enjoyment of food

Cambridge O Level Food & Nutrition 6065. Syllabus for examination in 2020, 2021 and 2022. 3
Introduction

• skills necessary for food preparation and food preservation

• the ability to organise and manage family food resources and to use food resources effectively in
everyday life
• knowledge of safety and hygiene requirements.

Cambridge O Level Food & Nutrition is an ideal foundation for further study at Cambridge International
A Level, and the skills learnt can also be used in other areas of study and in everyday life.

Students may also study for a Cambridge O Level in other Social Science subjects such as Agriculture
and Environmental Management. In addition to Cambridge O Levels, Cambridge International also offers
Cambridge IGCSE and Cambridge International A Level for further study in Food Studies as well as other
related subjects. See www.cambridgeinternational.org for a full list of the qualifications you can take.

Prior learning
Candidates beginning this course are not expected to have studied food and nutrition previously.

Progression
Cambridge O Level Certificates are general qualifications that enable candidates to progress either directly
to employment, or to proceed to further qualifications.

Candidates who are awarded grades A* to C in Cambridge O Level Food & Nutrition are well prepared to
follow courses leading to Cambridge International A Level Food Studies, or the equivalent.

1.4 How can I find out more?

If you are already a Cambridge school
You can make entries for this qualification through your usual channels. If you have any questions, please
contact us at [email protected]

If you are not yet a Cambridge school

Learn about the benefits of becoming a Cambridge school at www.cambridgeinternational.org/startcambridge
Email us at [email protected] to find out how your organisation can register to become a
Cambridge school.

4 Cambridge O Level Food & Nutrition 6065. Syllabus for examination in 2020, 2021 and 2022.
 Teacher support

2. Teacher support

2.1 Support materials

You can go to our public website at www.cambridgeinternational.org/olevel to download current and
future syllabuses together with specimen papers or past question papers, examiner reports and grade
threshold tables from one series.

For teachers at registered Cambridge schools a range of additional support materials for specific syllabuses
is available online from the School Support Hub. Go to www.cambridgeinternational.org/support
(username and password required). If you do not have access, speak to the Teacher Support coordinator at
your school.

2.2 Endorsed resources

We work with publishers who provide a range of resources for our syllabuses including print and digital
materials. Resources endorsed by Cambridge International go through a detailed quality assurance process
to make sure they provide a high level of support for teachers and learners.

We have resource lists which can be filtered to show all resources, or just those which are endorsed by
Cambridge International. The resource lists include further suggestions for resources to support teaching.
See www.cambridgeinternational.org/i-want-to/resource-centre for further information.

2.3 Training
We offer a range of support activities for teachers to ensure they have the relevant knowledge and skills to
deliver our qualifications. See www.cambridgeinternational.org/events for further information.

Cambridge O Level Food & Nutrition 6065. Syllabus for examination in 2020, 2021 and 2022. 5
Assessment at a glance

3. Assessment at a glance

For the Cambridge O Level Food & Nutrition, candidates take two compulsory components: Paper 1 Theory
and Paper 2 Practical Test.

Paper 1 Theory 2 hours

Written paper consisting of short-answer questions, structured questions and open-ended essay
questions.
100 marks

50% of total marks

Paper 2 Practical Test 2 hours 30 minutes with Planning Session of 1 hour 30 minutes

Candidates have a Planning Session of 1 hour 30 minutes one week before the Practical Test of
2 hours and 30 minutes.
At the start of the Planning Session, candidates are given their allocated test question (as detailed in
the Confidential Instructions) and three Preparation Sheets. At the end of the Planning Session, all
three Preparation Sheets are returned to the Practical Examiner.
At the start of the Practical Test, the Preparation Sheets are returned to the candidate.
100 marks

50% of total marks

Availability
This syllabus is examined in the June and November examination series.

This syllabus is not available to private candidates.

Detailed timetables are available from www.cambridgeinternational.org/timetables

Cambridge O Levels are available to centres in Administrative Zones 3, 4 and 5. Centres in Administrative
Zones 1, 2 or 6 wishing to enter candidates for Cambridge O Level examinations should contact Cambridge
International Customer Services.

Combining this with other syllabuses

Candidates can combine this syllabus in an examination series with any other Cambridge International
syllabus, except:
• Cambridge IGCSE Food & Nutrition (0648)
• Cambridge International A Level Food Studies (9336)
• syllabuses with the same title at the same level.

Please note that Cambridge O Level, Cambridge IGCSE and Cambridge IGCSE (9–1) syllabuses are at the
same level.

6 Cambridge O Level Food & Nutrition 6065. Syllabus for examination in 2020, 2021 and 2022.
 Syllabus aims and assessment objectives

4. Syllabus aims and assessment objectives

Food and nutrition gives candidates the chance to develop their knowledge and skills in an area that is
relevant to their own lives and also through understanding where food and nutrition fits in the modern,
changing, multi-cultural society. Candidates must apply knowledge gained from the food and nutrition
syllabus and use practical skills in a way that keeps in mind factors such as personal/family needs and
lifestyles, available money and foodstuffs, and how diet relates to health.

The Education Authority, Ministry or centre/s should be satisfied that there are appropriate facilities and
equipment for the practical component of the assessment. Each candidate should have sole use of a
European-type cooker or stove, a range of basic cooking equipment and access to labour-saving equipment
during the Practical Test.

Basic Equipment
Bowls, scales, measuring equipment, various knives for different purposes, various spoons and spatulas,
baking tins, cake tins, greaseproof paper etc.

Specialised Equipment
Hand whisk, draining spoons, graters, pressure cookers etc.

Desirable Equipment (not essential)

Electric mixers, liquidisers/blenders etc.

It is expected that candidates will have access to refrigerators and freezers.

Practical Examiners must be qualified to teach this subject at this level. Education Authorities, Ministries or
centres must organise their own system of teacher moderation.

4.1 Syllabus aims

The aims of this syllabus describe the educational purposes of a course in food and nutrition for the O Level
exam.

The aims are to:

1. develop candidates’ understanding of nutrition and health problems associated with diet
2. develop candidates’ understanding and awareness of how socio-economic factors affect diet
3. develop candidates’ understanding of eating patterns and dietary needs both for people of different ages
and for differing groups within society
4. develop candidates’ awareness of how the position of the consumer differs in developed and
less-developed economies and how to assess the effectiveness and validity of claims made by
advertisers
5. encourage candidates to develop aesthetic and social sensitivity to dietary patterns
6. develop candidates’ interest in the creative side and enjoyment of food and the skills necessary for food
preparation and food preservation
7. develop candidates’ food-related knowledge and skills so that they can organise and manage family
resources effectively according to the needs and lifestyles of family members
8. develop candidates’ ability to make informed judgements and choices about the use of food available to
the family unit in everyday life
9. develop candidates’ awareness of relevant mandatory and other necessary safety and hygiene
requirements.

Cambridge O Level Food & Nutrition 6065. Syllabus for examination in 2020, 2021 and 2022. 7
Syllabus aims and assessment objectives

4.2 Assessment objectives

AO1 Knowledge with understanding
Candidates are expected to:
• use scientific and technological vocabulary and terminology correctly
• show their understanding of how diet and nutritional requirements are affected by social, economic and
environmental factors
• show their understanding of scientific principles, definitions and theories
• choose suitable equipment and tools and use them correctly
• show their understanding of safety and hygiene rules and regulations
• show their understanding of basic quantities and methods and of the importance of accurate
measurement.

AO2 Handling information and solving problems

Candidates are expected to:
• read and interpret information
• translate information from one form to another
• follow and give instructions
• make use of numerical and other data
• organise and manage time, money, energy/effort, materials, equipment and tools, and interests
according to the stated criteria for a given situation
• estimate and measure accurately area, capacity, mass, quantity, shape, size, temperature, time and
weight.

AO3 Experimental skills and investigations

Candidates are expected to:
• identify problems
• follow and give instructions
• test and compare methods, materials and equipment used in food preparation
• find and interpret evidence for making judgements and choices
• give reasons for judgements and choices in the light of the evidence
• identify priorities
• assess and evaluate the effectiveness of the course of action
• observe and record observations.

8 Cambridge O Level Food & Nutrition 6065. Syllabus for examination in 2020, 2021 and 2022.
 Syllabus aims and assessment objectives

4.3 Relationship between assessment objectives and components

Paper 1 Paper 2 Approx. % total
Assessment Objective qualification
(%) (%)

AO1 Knowledge with understanding 60 15 40

AO2 Handling information and solving problems 20 60 40

AO3 Experimental skills and investigations 20 25 20

4.4 Notes
1. During the Practical Test, centres must allow enough space and satisfactory equipment for each
candidate. Each candidate must have sole use of one European-type cooker or stove.
2. The Practical Examiners must follow an assessment scheme prepared by Cambridge International. The
generic content of the Practical Test mark scheme is in section 6.3. Practical Examiners must record the
marks available and the marks awarded on the Practical Test Working Mark Sheet (see section 6.4). The
final marks that the Practical Examiner awards must reflect the requirements of the specific tasks given
in each examination series.
3. The assessment objectives are weighted to show their relative importance. The weightings do not give a
precise statement of the number of marks allocated to particular assessment objectives.

Cambridge O Level Food & Nutrition 6065. Syllabus for examination in 2020, 2021 and 2022. 9
Syllabus content

5. Syllabus content

Topic Areas of study

1. An understanding of the Diet, balanced diet, metabolism, malnutrition, under-nutrition,
terms used in nutrition and overnutrition, deficiency disease.
nutrition-related problems
2. Nutritive value of foods The sources and functions of:
• proteins (high biological and low biological value), carbohydrates
(monosaccharide, disaccharide and polysaccharide)
• fats
• vitamins (A, C, D, E, K, B group – thiamin, riboflavin, nicotinic acid
and cobalamin)
• mineral elements (calcium, iron, phosphorous, potassium, sodium,
fluoride, chloride, iodide)
• water
Sources and uses of food energy.
Sources and functions of non-starch polysaccharide (NSP)/dietary fibre.
3. Digestion and absorption Digestion at each stage of the digestive system:
• mouth
• stomach
• duodenum
• ileum
Enzymes as catalysts in digestion, including amylase, erepsin,
invertase, lactase, lipase, maltase, pepsin, rennin, trypsinogen.
Role of bile in emulsifying fats.
Absorption of nutrients, including the structure of ileum.
4. Meal planning and dietary Factors affecting food requirements.
guidelines Planning and serving of family meals.
Meals for different ages, occupations, cultures and religions.
Special needs of:
• pregnant and lactating women
• people with food allergies and intolerances, including coeliacs
• people with medical conditions linked to diet, such as diabetes
• convalescents
• vegetarians, including vegans and lacto-vegetarians
Meals for special occasions, festivals, packed meals, snacks,
beverages.
Use of herbs, spices and garnishes.
Attractive presentation of food.
Terminology describing recommended dietary intakes, e.g. Dietary
Reference Value (DRV) and Reference Daily Intake (RDI).
Use of nutritional tools.

10 Cambridge O Level Food & Nutrition 6065. Syllabus for examination in 2020, 2021 and 2022.
 Syllabus content

Topic Areas of study

5. Composition and value of Sources of protein (dairy products, eggs, fish, meat , soya); cereals
the main foods in the diet (maize, millets, oats, rice, wheat); fruits and vegetables, including
pulses and nuts; fats and oils.
6. Cooking of food Transfer of heat by conduction, convection and radiation. Principles
involved in the different methods of cooking – baking, boiling, braising,
cooking in a microwave oven, frying, grilling, poaching, pressure
cooking, roasting, simmering, steaming, stewing, use of a slow cooker.
Reasons for cooking food.
Sensory properties of food (flavour, taste, texture).
Effect of dry and moist heat on proteins, fats and oils, sugars and
starches, and vitamins to include:
• caramelisation
• coagulation
• dextrinisation
• enzymic and non-enzymic browning (Maillard reaction)
• gelatinisation
• rancidity
• smoking point
Preparation and cooking of food to preserve nutritive value.
Economical use of food, equipment, fuel and labour.
7. Convenience foods Foods partly or totally prepared by a food manufacturer – dehydrated,
tinned, frozen, ready-to-eat, cook-chill.
Intelligent use of these foods.
Advantages and disadvantages.
Food additives – types and function.
Packaging – types, materials used, advantages and disadvantages.
Labelling – information found on labels, reasons for it.
8. Basic proportions and Biscuits, cookies, scones and cakes made by creaming, melting, one-
methods of making stage, rubbing-in and whisking methods.
Pastries – shortcrust, flaky and rough puff.
Sauces – pouring and coating; roux and blended methods.
Batters – thin (pouring) and coating.
Sweet and savoury yeast products.
9. Raising agents Air, carbon dioxide, water vapour.
Ways of introducing these gases into a mixture (to include bicarbonate
of soda, baking powder, yeast).
10. Food spoilage, and hygiene Action of enzymes, bacteria, yeasts and moulds.
in the handling and storage Personal, food and kitchen hygiene, including food hygiene in shops
of food and markets.
Food storage at home, refrigeration, waste disposal.

Cambridge O Level Food & Nutrition 6065. Syllabus for examination in 2020, 2021 and 2022. 11
Syllabus content

Topic Areas of study

11. Food preservation Reasons for preserving food.
Methods of preservation and an understanding of the principles
involved:
• heating – canning, bottling
• removal of moisture – dehydrating
• reduction in temperature – freezing
• chemical preservation – sugar, salt, vinegar
• modified atmosphere packaging
• irradiation
Key points involved in milk pasteurisation and sterilisation and in the
production of UHT milk, evaporated and condensed milk, and dried
milk.
The use of enzymes and bacteria in the manufacture of cheese and
yoghurt.
12. Kitchen planning Organisation of cooking area and equipment for efficient work.
Choice, use and care of:
• work surfaces
• flooring
• walls and wall coverings
• lighting
• ventilation
13. Kitchen equipment Choice, use and care of:
• modern and traditional cookers
• thermostatic control and automatic time-controlled ovens
• microwave ovens
• slow electric cook pots
• refrigerators and freezers
• small kitchen equipment, e.g. knives, pans
• small electrical kitchen equipment, e.g. food processors, electric
kettles
Advantages and disadvantages of microwave ovens.
14. Kitchen safety, simple first Awareness of potential danger areas in the kitchen.
aid Safety precautions.
First aid for burns and scalds, cuts, electric shock, fainting, shock.

12 Cambridge O Level Food & Nutrition 6065. Syllabus for examination in 2020, 2021 and 2022.
 Practical Test

6. Practical Test

6.1 Role of the Practical Examiner

The role of the Practical Examiner is conducted either by a teacher within your centre (non-Ministry centres
only) or by a visiting examiner (Ministry centres only). Guidelines and training materials are available in the
Practical Test Handbook.

6.2 Practical Test administration

Centres should give Practical Examiners access to the Confidential Instructions, a generic mark scheme (see
section 6.3) and a specific mark scheme for Choice and Quality/Results for the relevant examination series.

Candidates are given specific test questions according to the Confidential Instructions. They are expected to
complete three Preparation Sheets within the planning time limit of 1 hour 30 minutes.

On the day of the Planning Session for the Practical Test, each candidate is given the specific test chosen
for them and three Preparation Sheets:
• Choice and Recipes
• Time Plan
• Shopping List } Plan of Work
The Preparation Sheets and the instructions for completion must be downloaded from
www.cambridgeinternational.org/samples. A copy must be made of each sheet completed by the
candidate, one for the Practical Examiner and one for use by the candidate in the Practical Test.

Choice and Recipes

Candidates list the names of the dishes they have chosen in the correct order to answer the question set.
Next to each named dish they must give a list of the exact quantities of ingredients required to make the
dish.

Time Plan
Candidates must show clearly how they plan to cook their chosen dishes within the time limit of 2 hours 30
minutes. For each dish, they must include methods, cooking times, temperatures, washing up and serving
details. They must show a sensible sequence for serving the dishes (hot, if required) at the end of the test
time. Candidates should list any special points such as special tools, preparation methods and consistencies.

Shopping List
Candidates must list the correct total quantities of all ingredients in the sections for the different
types of foods. In the section for special equipment, they should list items such as cooking dishes,
serving dishes, etc.

At the end of the Planning Session, the centre should photocopy the sheets. Centres should keep the
original of all three sheets securely and should make them available to the Practical Examiner. The Practical
Examiner must mark these sheets before the actual cooking.

Cambridge O Level Food & Nutrition 6065. Syllabus for examination in 2020, 2021 and 2022. 13
Practical Test

Centres should keep the Preparation Sheets securely. The duplicate copies should be returned to the
candidates on the day of the Practical Test so that they can be used during cooking. The duplicate sheets
must be collected in at the end of the practical assessment and held securely at the centre until the
publication of results.

Centres should give the copy of the Shopping List to the teacher as soon as possible, so that he or she can
order ingredients for each candidate.

6.3 Generic mark scheme

The detailed mark scheme allows examiners to keep a uniform standard.

To pass, a candidate must work systematically, using a reasonable degree of skill, good methods and
sound recipes. At least half of the resulting dishes should be of a good standard – well served, with good
appearance, consistency, texture and flavour. If the main dishes of the test are inedible, then a pass result
should not be given.

Allocation of marks
Practical Examiners should record the marks on the Practical Test Working Mark Sheet.

The total of 150 is divided as follows:

1 Preparation session 50
2 Method of working 55
3 Quality/Results 35
4 Serving and appearance 10

Recording candidates’ marks

Candidates’ marks for the Practical Test must be recorded on the Practical Test Working Mark Sheet
produced by Cambridge International. These forms, and the instructions for completing them, may be
downloaded from www.cambridgeinternational.org/samples. The database will ask you for the syllabus
code (i.e. 6065) and your centre number, after which it will take you to the correct forms. Follow the
instructions when completing each form.

14 Cambridge O Level Food & Nutrition 6065. Syllabus for examination in 2020, 2021 and 2022.
 Practical Test

Detailed allocation of marks

1 Planning session (maximum 50 marks) Choice and Recipes 25 marks
Plan of work 25 marks
Choice and Recipes
Choice (maximum 20 marks)
Candidates should choose dishes that meet the requirements of the specific tasks and that:
1. show a variety of skills and processes
2. combine to form well-balanced meals
3. have attractive appearance
4. show thought for economy in fuel and food
5. show an awareness of the time available for cooking and serving.

Candidates should choose quantities that are appropriate for the number being served.
Examiners should give credit for variety in texture and for inclusion of local fruit and vegetables.

Recipes (maximum 5 marks)

Candidates must clearly list the dishes they have chosen, giving the quantity of each ingredient for
each dish.

Plan of Work
Time Plan (maximum 23 marks)
1. Candidates should give a logical sequence of work, from the beginning of the test to final
serving, with each item followed through to serving stage. This is the most important part
of the plan. Candidates should be able to show that they know exactly what they are going
to do throughout the test time and must write it down in clear order, with enough time
given to each section. (10 marks)
2. Candidates must indicate the method for each dish clearly: for example, make cake –
creaming method; make sauce – roux method. (5 marks)
3. Candidates must give the oven temperature needed for each dish and the cooking time
(although this can be included in the Choice section). (3 marks)
4. Candidates should allow time for cleaning and dish-washing at convenient points in the
plan (not necessarily after every dish). (3 marks)
5. Candidates should show the time that they have allowed for serving meals, in the correct
order of courses. They do not need to give detailed timing – it is better for them to give a
sensible guide. (2 marks)

Shopping List (maximum 2 marks)

Candidates must list the correct total quantities of ingredients needed under the correct headings.
They should also list any special equipment and serving dishes that they need.

Cambridge O Level Food & Nutrition 6065. Syllabus for examination in 2020, 2021 and 2022. 15
Practical Test

2 Method of working (maximum 55 marks)

As a general guide, Practical Examiners should give 28 out of 55 for methods that just deserve a pass,
33 out of 55 for a really sound pass and 44 out of 55 for very good methods, excellent timing and a
variety of skills shown – they should only give this mark to a very able candidate. Practical Examiners
must not give more than 25 out of 55 to a candidate who shows little skill and who has not chosen
enough dishes for the available time.
Most candidates will probably get between 28 and 43 marks.
Practical Examiners should consider the following points when deciding on this mark. Cambridge
International has provided these sections to guide the Practical Examiner in choosing the total mark for
this section.
(a) The candidate’s general approach should be business-like and confident, and should show
that she/he has knowledge and clear understanding of the recipes and methods being used,
as well as good timing and organisation throughout the test. (5 marks)

(b) Manipulation – correct use of tools, skill in handling mixtures, and large and small equipment.
Correct preparation of fish, meat, vegetables, fruit, seasonings and flavourings, etc. Note that
the maximum mark available for manipulation should be reduced for low-skilled dishes. (20 marks)

(c) Judgement of consistencies of various mixtures (for example, scone mixtures, cake mixture, etc.)
before actual cooking. (10 marks)

(d) Good hygienic methods and economy in using fuel and food. (5 + 5 marks)

(e) 
Oven management – control of heat on top of the stove. Knowledge of correct oven temperatures
and positioning of dishes in the oven. Control of heat in microwave ovens, grills
and deep-fat fryers. (5 marks)

(f) Tidy and methodical work throughout. If a candidate is extremely untidy, then the Practical
Examiner can take off more than 5 marks. If this happens, the examiner should make a comment
on the Practical Test Working Mark Sheet. (5 marks)

3 Quality/Results (maximum 35 marks)

Examiners must taste all dishes and mark each dish according to flavour, texture and edibility. They must
lower the maximum mark available for simple dishes involving little skill and halve the maximum mark
available for an initial incorrect choice of dish. If this number is a decimal, it should be rounded down to
the next whole mark. Dishes added after the planning session has been completed must not be given a
mark.
When assessing the quality of finished dishes, Practical Examiners should add comments on the
Practical Test Working Mark Sheet about the flavour, texture and edibility of each dish.
Serving and appearance are assessed separately.

16 Cambridge O Level Food & Nutrition 6065. Syllabus for examination in 2020, 2021 and 2022.
 Practical Test

4 Serving and appearance (maximum 10 marks (usually 5 + 5))

Serving – sequence of serving meal, correct temperature of food and serving dishes.
Appearance – attractive presentation, tasteful garnishing and decoration. Cleanliness of dishes and
tablecloth. Correct use of doilies and dish papers. Suitable, simple flower arrangement.
One hard copy of a good quality colour photograph of each candidate’s serving table with completed
dishes is required for moderating purposes.

Important note: Examiners must scale the raw mark out of 150 to a mark out of 100.

6.4 
Practical Test Working Mark Sheet
1. Use one copy for each candidate.
2. Mark the three planning sheets before the actual cooking, using the specific mark scheme for Choice
and the generic mark scheme. Transfer these marks to the Planning section of the Practical Test
Working Mark Sheet. Give comments/annotation to explain how you have awarded marks.
3. Record on the Practical Test Working Mark Sheet the maximum mark available for the Quality/Results of
each dish, taking into account the correct choice of dishes and level of skill shown.
4. While the candidates are cooking the dishes that they have planned, complete the Method of
working, Quality/Results and Serving and appearance sections, using the specific mark scheme for
Quality/Results and the generic mark scheme. It is particularly important that you include comments/
annotation in these sections to support the marks you have awarded.

The Practical Test Working Mark Sheet and the instructions for completion must be downloaded from
www.cambridgeinternational.org/samples

6.5 Practical Test Summary Mark Sheet

Each centre must provide a Practical Test Summary Mark Sheet. Practical Examiners should complete
this, listing (in correct examination order) the candidate numbers, names, test numbers, marks for each
section of the work, a total mark (out of 150) and a scaled final mark (out of 100) for each candidate. An
independent person should check the addition of marks.

The Practical Test Summary Mark Sheet and the instructions for completion must be downloaded from
www.cambridgeinternational.org/samples

Send the following items to Cambridge International, immediately after all the practical sessions have been
completed:
• marked original copies of the candidates’ Preparation Sheets
• one completed Practical Test Working Mark Sheet per candidate
• one copy of the Practical Test Summary Mark Sheet per centre
• the Practical Examiner’s report for each practical session held (supplied with the Confidential
Instructions)
• a hard copy of a good quality colour photograph of each candidate’s serving table with completed dishes
labelled with the candidate’s number, name and test number.

You can find more detailed information about the Practical Test in the Practical Test Handbook.

Cambridge O Level Food & Nutrition 6065. Syllabus for examination in 2020, 2021 and 2022. 17
Practical Test

6.6 Note on internal moderation

If two or more teachers in a centre are acting as Practical Examiners, the centre must make sure that all
candidates are assessed to a common standard. When entering candidates from different teaching groups
(for example, different classes), the centre must make sure that the marks for each skill are moderated
internally. In practice, this means that all marks within a centre must be brought to a common standard
by the teacher responsible for co-ordinating internal assessment (i.e. the internal moderator). The aim is
to produce a valid and reliable set of marks, which reflects the relative attainment of all candidates in the
centre. The outcome of internal moderation, in terms of the number of marks added to (or subtracted from)
the candidate’s initial total, must be clearly shown when these marks are transferred onto the Practical Test
Summary Mark Sheet.

The internally moderated marks for all candidates must be recorded on the Practical Test Summary
Mark Sheet. This form, and the instructions for completing it, must be downloaded from
www.cambridgeinternational.org/samples. The database will ask you for the syllabus code, (i.e. 6065),
and your centre number, after which it will take you to the correct form. Follow the instructions when
completing the form.

18 Cambridge O Level Food & Nutrition 6065. Syllabus for examination in 2020, 2021 and 2022.
 Other information

7. Other information

Equality and inclusion

We have taken great care in the preparation of this syllabus and assessment materials to avoid bias of any
kind. To comply with the UK Equality Act (2010), we have designed this qualification with the aim of avoiding
direct and indirect discrimination.

The standard assessment arrangements may present unnecessary barriers for candidates with disabilities
or learning difficulties. Arrangements can be put in place for these candidates to enable them to access the
assessments and receive recognition of their attainment. Access arrangements will not be agreed if they
give candidates an unfair advantage over others or if they compromise the standards being assessed.

Candidates who are unable to access the assessment of any component may be eligible to receive an award
based on the parts of the assessment they have taken.

Information on access arrangements is found in the Cambridge Handbook which can be downloaded from
the website www.cambridgeinternational.org/examsofficers

Language
This syllabus and the associated assessment materials are available in English only.

Grading and reporting

Cambridge O Level results are shown by one of the grades A*, A, B, C, D or E, indicating the standard
achieved, A* being the highest and E the lowest. ‘Ungraded’ indicates that the candidate’s performance fell
short of the standard required for grade E. ‘Ungraded’ will be reported on the statement of results but not
on the certificate. The letters Q (result pending), X (no result) and Y (to be issued) may also appear on the
statement of results but not on the certificate.

Exam administration
To keep our exams secure, we produce question papers for different areas of the world, known as
‘administrative zones’. We allocate all Cambridge schools to one administrative zone determined by their
location. Each zone has a specific timetable. Some of our syllabuses offer candidates different assessment
options. An entry option code is used to identify the components the candidate will take relevant to the
administrative zone and the available assessment options.

Cambridge O Level Food & Nutrition 6065. Syllabus for examination in 2020, 2021 and 2022. 19
Cambridge Assessment International Education
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