Mark allocation across sections: what the requirement means

1. Specification focus. Section A will be allocated 40 marks, and Section B will be allocated 40 marks to give an equal weighting to the reading and writing tasks.
2. Why it matters. The skill is assessed through the quality of the response, not through a memorised label. Examiners reward choices that are accurate, relevant and clearly connected to meaning, purpose or audience.

Mark allocation across sections: a reliable method

1. Identify what is assessed. Translate the requirement into an observable action such as identify, analyse, compare, evaluate or craft. This prevents irrelevant work.
2. Connect skill to evidence. Know what a successful response must contain: a clear point, appropriate textual support or crafted writing choices, and developed explanation.
3. Prioritise marks intelligently. Use the paper's instructions and mark allocation to judge depth and time. Do not spend equal time on tasks with different demands.
4. Review against the criterion. Before finishing, check that every paragraph performs the named skill rather than merely discussing the topic.

Mark allocation across sections: worked application

1. Model the thinking. If the command word is analyse, summary alone cannot fulfil it. Each paragraph needs a relevant detail, identification of the writer's choice and an explanation of how that choice shapes meaning.
2. Develop rather than list. One developed example normally shows greater control than several labels. Explain the relationship between choice, evidence and effect.