English Course Work Descriptors And Grades

Key Stage 4 : Written Work Descriptors and Grades Drama (pre-1914 and post-1914) and Prose Study Grade A*

Descriptors "originality of analysis and interpretation"

What you must show • • • •

A

"analytical and interpretative skill"

• • • •

B

"analytical skill"

• • • • •

C

"show insight"

D

"show understanding"

E

"show familiarity"

F

"show awareness"

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

G

"show response"

U

"make some attempt to respond"

• • • • •

presents a 'perfect' argument in terms of structure and evidence show 'flair and precision' in writing make 'subtle and discriminating comparisons' with other texts show in-depth knowledge of moral, philosophical and social significance make alternative interpretations of texts and media make cross references with other texts and media refer in detail to aspects of language (imagery, rhetorical devices), structure and characterisation make appropriate and careful comparisons with other texts and media show knowledge of moral, philosophical and social contexts understand how authors exploit language give a perceptive personal response understanding of techniques that convey meaning (alliteration, simile, metaphor, etc.) give detailed references to language, theme, structure, content and their effects understanding of historical context of text and medium give personal response understanding of ways in which meaning is conveyed. refer to language, character, themes and structure how reader/audience is intended to respond give a personal response understand meaning of texts comment on language, character, structure and theme express own views purpose of the text or medium describe on main ideas and characters describe the words used describe the structure show that know who are the characters are and what happens in texts describe similarities and differences with other texts and media know how stories are told know the main ideas of a text show that have a very basic knowledge of the text or medium know the main purpose of a text have outlined the title of the text or medium and its basic message

Key Stage 4 : Written Work Descriptors and Grades Media and Original Writing Grade A*

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

U

What you must show • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

can use a range of styles (elaborate, concise, vigorous or restrained) for effect wide-ranging vocabulary that achieves sophisticated effects perfect spelling, punctuation and sentence structure give personal interpretations paragraphs are well constructed and use linking techniques to show unity and clarity in the whole text use complex sentences with ease write persuasively use 'ambitious' vocabulary writes with confidence for difference audiences and purposes attractive presentation of work present complex ideas clearly and in detail use descriptive language to create effects can adapt style of writing for different purposes can write for different audiences use vocabulary to create effects and engage the reader can give a logical and coherent argument develop characters and settings accurate paragraphing, spelling and punctuation use vocabulary to engage the attention of the reader spelling of irregular words is accurate can communicate different opinions and viewpoints clearly write about a range of detailed ideas detailed plots and descriptions writing is organised and structured sentences are organised into paragraphs use complex sentences use a range of punctuation accurately use a style of writing appropriate to the purpose use vocabulary to create effect writing is organised uses complex sentences (where relate more than one idea) accurately full stops, capital letter and question marks used accurately express own views in some detail show awareness of purpose of the writing being produced show knowledge of tone and register shows basic organisation simple words spelled correctly basic punctuation used accurately legible handwriting includes some description, e.g. of setting, character, ideas use very simple sentence structure aware of simple rules of spelling and punctuation write basic ideas make simple statements write about events in order

Key Stage 4 : Work Descriptors and Grades Speaking and Listening Grade A*

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

U

What you must show • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

show originality and flair in contributions to discussion and talk can adapt speech according to task and audience show an in depth understanding of content use of Standard English is mature and confident content of speech is dynamic and influences others makes use of unusual vocabulary, intonation, expression and gesture can apply and cross-reference other people's ideas can take command of a situation can initiate speech and take a leading rôle in discussions listens carefully and can respond in detail to other people's ideas can understand and discuss challenging issues skilfully involve listeners and encourage their contributions able to organise discussion, summarising points and allowing the discussion to move forward leads discussion to an appropriate outcome can speak purposefully can manage challenging subjects effectively can organise speech to develop an argument to make an impact on an audience can build on points made by others in arguments uses a flexible range of vocabulary to create an effect on the audience can speak fluently can speak about a range of subjects that are challenging can speak to a range of different audiences confident use of Standard English use a wide range of vocabulary can present own point of view make relevant contributions to talk can organise own speaking when working in groups can vary the style of delivery when speaking use Standard English listen carefully and make responses that show understanding speak confidently are sensitive to different situations and audiences use Standard English listen with concentration to a range of talk speak with confidence on subjects with which you are familiar can adapt your talk according to your audience and purpose use Standard English grammar and vocabulary appropriately listen and respond carefully can speak and listen about issues that personally interest you can be heard to speak clearly listen to others begin to use Standard English correctly • make some attempt to speak and listen