This update was first published on 30 January 2026. We've now published the updated sample assessment materials to reflect the new instruction to candidates on our question papers – see below.

From the June 2026 series onwards, students will be awarded full marks for correctly answering maths-based questions in GCSE Geography A (Geographical Themes) and GCSE Geography B (Geography for Enquiring Minds) exams, even if their workings are not shown.

If the final answer to a maths question is correct, full marks will be given regardless of whether workings are provided; if the answer is incorrect, students may still receive credit for demonstrating the correct method.

To reflect this change, we’re adding the following instruction to our live question papers for both qualifications:

Where appropriate, your answer should be supported with working. Marks might be given for using a correct method, even if your answer is wrong.

The instruction to ‘show your workings’ will be removed from affected questions.

Updated sample assessment materials

To reflect the change above, we've updated our sample assessment materials for the following components:

GCSE Geography A

• J383/01: Living in the UK today
• J383/02: The world around us
• J383/03: Geographical skills

GCSE Geography B

• J384/01: Our natural world
• J384/02: People and society
• J384/03: Geographical exploration

You can view and download the sample question papers and mark schemes from: 

• the Assessment > Sample assessment materials section of the GCSE Geography A and Geography B qualification pages on our website. 
• the Assessment > Exams > Sample assessment materials section of Teach Cambridge.

If you have any queries about this update, please contact the Geography Subject Team on 01223 553998 or email us at geography@ocr.org.uk.

Qualifications

• Geography A (Geographical Themes) (9-1) - J383 (from 2016)
• Geography B (Geography for Enquiring Minds) (9-1) - J384 (from 2016)