What are the marking criteria?

The marking criteria vary by subject and age group. Various elements of the essay are assessed, and the following indicates the relative weighting applied to most essays:


The total maximum score is 100, divided among the categories as follows:


1. Content (30 Marks)

Evaluate the essay based on how effectively it addresses the essay title, its relevance, and its depth of understanding.

  • 27-30: Exceptional. The essay provides a comprehensive, insightful response, directly addressing the title with clarity, originality, and depth. The ideas are well-developed and relevant.
  • 23-26: Excellent. Demonstrates strong understanding and focus on the essay title, though there may be minor gaps in depth or originality.
  • 19-22: Good. Covers the topic with adequate focus and relevance but lacks depth, originality, or critical insight in some areas.
  • 15-18: Satisfactory. Attempts to address the essay title but lacks focus, with some irrelevant or superficial content.
  • 10-14: Weak. Limited understanding of the topic, with significant gaps in relevance and clarity.

  • 0-9: Poor. Minimal or no attempt to address the essay title. The essay may be incomplete or irrelevant.


2. Word Choice & Structure (20 Marks)

Evaluate the essay’s vocabulary, sentence structure, and overall coherence.

  • 18-20: Exceptional. A wide range of vocabulary and varied sentence structures enhance clarity, purpose, and effect. Minimal errors in spelling or punctuation.
  • 15-17: Excellent. Strong vocabulary and generally well-structured sentences, with occasional minor errors that do not detract significantly.
  • 12-14: Good. Adequate vocabulary and structure, though repetitive phrasing or awkward sentence construction may be present.
  • 9-11: Satisfactory. Some relevant vocabulary is used, but errors in word choice or sentence structure hinder clarity and coherence.
  • 6-8: Weak. Limited vocabulary and inconsistent sentence structures that detract from readability.

  • 0-5: Poor. Simplistic or inappropriate vocabulary with serious structural issues, making the essay difficult to follow.


3. Research & Critical Analysis (20 Marks)

Assess the depth of analysis, quality of reasoning, and how well evidence is interpreted to support arguments.

  • 18-20: Exceptional. Insightful analysis, with well-supported arguments and a deep understanding of the topic. Demonstrates the ability to synthesize information from multiple perspectives.
  • 15-17: Excellent. Strong analysis with thoughtful insights and supported arguments, though some points could benefit from deeper exploration.
  • 12-14: Good. Demonstrates an attempt at analysis, with reasonable inferences, though some arguments may lack depth or supporting evidence.
  • 9-11: Satisfactory. Some effort to analyze and reason, but arguments are underdeveloped or weakly supported.
  • 6-8: Weak. Limited or shallow analysis, with minimal critical engagement with the topic.
  • 0-5: Poor. Minimal or no attempt at analysis or critical reasoning.

4. Using Evidence & Inference (20 Marks)

Evaluate the use of evidence, citations, and the ability to draw logical conclusions.

  • 18-20: Exceptional. Evidence is drawn from reputable sources, integrated seamlessly, and cited correctly. Conclusions are logical and well-supported.
  • 15-17: Excellent. Strong use of evidence with accurate citations, though integration or depth of analysis could be improved.
  • 12-14: Good. Adequate use of evidence, though some sources may be less credible or poorly integrated. Citations are mostly accurate.
  • 9-11: Satisfactory. Some evidence is provided, but it is inconsistently applied, with errors in citation or unclear inferences.
  • 6-8: Weak. Limited or anecdotal evidence, with inconsistent or incorrect citation. Conclusions may lack support.
  • 0-5: Poor. Minimal or no evidence used, with unsupported or illogical conclusions.

5. Spelling, Grammar & Punctuation (10 Marks)

Assess the accuracy of grammar, spelling, and punctuation and its effect on readability.

  • 9-10: Exceptional. Virtually error-free, with polished and professional use of language throughout.
  • 7-8: Excellent. Minor errors in spelling, punctuation, or grammar that do not detract from readability.
  • 5-6: Good. Noticeable errors, but the essay remains comprehensible. Some refinement needed.
  • 3-4: Satisfactory. Frequent errors in spelling, punctuation, or grammar that affect clarity and readability.
  • 1-2: Weak. Significant and repeated errors that impair understanding.
  • 0: Poor. Writing is illegible or incomprehensible due to numerous language issues.