The answer to the example shown below seems right to most, yet the pupil scored a "0".

That is because the keyword in the question is "relationship" and "conclude". Thus the pupil is expected to analyse the data and provide the pattern in the data.

The correct answer should be :
As the mass increases, the extension of the spring also increases.
Score for this answer : Full marks

To acquire the right skills to better your child's performance in Primary Science, attend "Learn with your Child" Primary Science Workshop for parents.

Date : 14 March 2009, Saturday
Time : 1pm - 4pm
Venue : Auditorium @ Serangoon Gardens Country Club

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Yes, yes, yes! opend-ended qns torture! Last time we just memorise definitions and standard answers. Now cannot work.

What's this process skills about? Also how much is that being tested on?

If i may put it this way...if transportation gets you from place to place, process skills in science is the transportation that help pupils arrive at a deeper understanding of scientific concepts.