Paper 1 Grading Rubric

Paper 1: Prose and performance

Criterion A: Understanding of the novel and selection of the extract

• Has the student chosen a relevant extract in relation to the question?
• How well does the student understand the extract in relation to the novel as a whole?

Marks	Level descriptor
0	The work does not reach a standard described by the descriptors below.
1	There is limited understanding of the text but it is not effectively substantiated with few or irrelevant references.
2	There is some understanding that is given a limited support by references to the text.
3	There is an adequate understanding that is supported by relevant references to the text.
4	There is a good understanding that is supported by relevant and detailed references to the text.
5	There is a perceptive understanding that is supported by detailed and well-chosen references to the text.

Criterion B: Ideas for dramatization based on interpretation of the literary text

• Has the student successfully linked ideas for dramatization to the chosen text?
• How well are these ideas justified in relation to the chosen text?

Marks	Level descriptor
0	The work does not reach a standard described by the descriptors below.
1–2	There are credible ideas for dramatization, though most are vague or impractical, with limited or no justification in relation to the original text.
3–4	There are credible ideas for dramatization, though some may be vague or impractical; there is some justification in relation to the original text.
5–6	There are credible ideas for dramatization, which are adequate and justified in relation to the original text.
7–8	There are good, practical ideas for dramatization, which are well justified in relation to the original text.
9–10	There are excellent practical ideas for dramatization, which are well justified and provide original insights into the text.

Criterion C: Use of language

• How accurate, clear and precise is the language used in the essay?
• How appropriate is the choice of register, style and terminology for this task? (“Register” refers, in this context, to the student’s use of elements such as vocabulary, tone, sentence structure and terminology appropriate to the task. Terminology relates to the forms of prose and drama.)

Marks	Level descriptor
0	The work does not reach a standard described by the descriptors below.
1	Comprehensible language is used to a limited degree. There are significant lapses in grammar, spelling and sentence construction.
2	There is some degree of clarity and coherence in the use of language. There is some degree of accuracy in grammar, spelling and sentence construction.
3	There is clear and coherent use of language. There are only a few significant lapses in grammar, spelling and sentence construction. The register is generally appropriate.
4	The use of language is clear, varied and precise. There are no significant lapses in grammar, spelling and sentence construction. The choice of register is suitable.
5	The use of language is clear, varied, precise and concise. There are no significant lapses in grammar, spelling and sentence construction. The choice of register is effective.