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Listen
Assessment of Achievement Programme
Report of the First AAP Survey of Social Subjects Enquiry Skills (2002)
Appendix F: The 'best fit' scheme used for evaluating pupils' writing
Level Descriptions using a 'Best Fit' Approach
Read the piece of writing, ideally more than once.
- Do the language and structure meet the conventions of the genre?
- Does the writing address the purpose of the task?
Once you are satisfied that the writer has addressed the task set, using professional judgement, mentally award the writing a level. Read the description for the appropriate level and decide if the piece of writing fits the description. Because you are using a 'best fit' approach, the piece of writing might not meet the criteria fully. This is acceptable. However, the writing must meet the criteria highlighted in bold for a particular level to be awarded. If the writing appears to sit equally well at two levels, look for the relative strengths and weaknesses within the writing and decide if the strengths outweigh the weaknesses or vice versa.
If in your professional judgement a piece of writing is insufficient to meet the requirements for Level A, record it as a 'P'. Record 'R' if the content is irrelevant and 'N' if no response.
Level A
The writing conveys one or two details which are linked and mostly relevant. Common linking words are used to organise ideas (eg and, then). A capital letter and a full stop are used to mark at least one sentence. Commonly used words are spelt accurately.
Level B
The writing conveys a main idea with sufficient information to make the message clear. The information is mostly organised logically. Common linking words are used to organise ideas into sentences (eg and, then, but, so, that) and punctuation is beginning to support what has been written.
An increased range of commonly used words is spelt accurately.
Level C
The writing conveys a clear sense of ideas that are organised logically in the main. In the main, the punctuation supports what has been written. Less commonly used words are spelt with increasing confidence and accuracy.
Level D
Ideas are described in detail and are logically and clearly organised throughout. The writing includes relevant and consistent supporting detail. There is some variety in sentence structure and most sentences are punctuated accurately. Most of the words needed for the task are accurately spelt.
Level E
The writing begins to convey discernment. Ideas are logically and clearly organised throughout and are well-linked and supported with appropriate detail. There is appropriate variety in sentence structure and sentences are accurately constructed, linked and punctuated. Spelling is accurate in the main.
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