English Literature Mark Scheme

Level 1 (1–6 Marks)

• Response to the Text (AO1): The response is simple, with minimal personal response and limited reference to the text.
• Critical Style: Little evidence of a critical approach or sustained analysis; the response is largely descriptive or basic.
• Context (AO3): There is little awareness of relevant context, and minimal or no comment on the relationship between the text and its context.
• Textual Evidence: There is little supporting reference to the text or only very basic examples.

Level 2 (7–12 Marks)

• Response to the Text (AO1): The response may be largely narrative but includes some personal response. There is some reference to the text, but it may lack consistent or secure focus.
• Critical Style: There is some evidence of a critical style, but the interpretation may not be fully developed or may lack depth.
• Context (AO3): Some awareness of the relevant context is shown, with a few comments on how the context impacts the interpretation of the text.
• Textual Evidence: Some reference to the text is made, but it may not always be fully relevant or focused.

Level 3 (13–19 Marks)

• Response to the Text (AO1): The response demonstrates a relevant personal response, with clear and focused supporting references to the text. Interpretation is sound and relates well to the text.
• Critical Style: There is an appropriate critical style, with clear and well-supported interpretations that are sound and focused.
• Context (AO3): A sound comment is made on the relevant context, considering how the historical, social, or cultural context affects the text.
• Textual Evidence: Relevant and focused textual references are used to support the analysis.

Level 4 (20–26 Marks)

• Response to the Text (AO1): The response is fully engaged with the text, offering a developed personal response and detailed analysis. It is well-supported by well-chosen references to the text.
• Critical Style: The critical style is sustained and well-developed. Interpretation is insightful, with clear and well-chosen references to support the argument.
• Context (AO3): There is sustained comment on the relevant context, with a detailed awareness of how context shapes the meaning of the text.
• Textual Evidence: The response uses well-chosen textual references effectively to build and support the argument.

Level 5 (27–32 Marks)

• Response to the Text (AO1): The response is assured, showing a high level of engagement with the text. The personal response is discerning and underpinned by carefully selected references.
• Critical Style: The critical style is mature, with perceptive understanding and insightful interpretation. The references to the text are discerning and precisely chosen.
• Context (AO3): The understanding of the relevant context is excellent, and the relationship between the text and context is seamlessly integrated into the analysis.
• Textual Evidence: The response integrates textual references cohesively, supporting an in-depth and sophisticated analysis.

AO4 Mark Scheme (Spelling, Punctuation, and Grammar)

• Level 1 (1–2 Marks): The spelling and punctuation are generally accurate, with reasonable control of vocabulary and sentence structure. Any errors do not hinder understanding.
• Level 2 (3–5 Marks): Spelling and punctuation are mostly accurate, with a considerable range of vocabulary and sentence structures. There is good general control of meaning.
• Level 3 (6–8 Marks): The response consistently uses accurate spelling, punctuation, and grammar. Vocabulary and sentence structures are varied and sophisticated, contributing to a clear and coherent response.

Guidelines for Writing a Strong Response

• Start with a clear introduction: Outline the key points you will discuss, including your interpretation of the text and any key themes or ideas you plan to explore.
• Personal Response (AO1): Make sure your response reflects your personal engagement with the text. Show your own interpretations and reactions to the characters, themes, and language.
• Critical Style (AO1): Your response should demonstrate critical thinking. Use specific examples from the text to support your analysis, and link these examples to broader themes or ideas.
• Context (AO3): Show an understanding of how the historical, social, or cultural context informs the themes and characters in the text. You can also comment on how the text reflects the time period it was written in.
• Textual Evidence: Always support your ideas with clear quotes or references to the text. Use these quotes effectively, explaining how they contribute to your analysis.

By focusing on these key areas, you will be able to produce a strong, insightful, and well-supported response to the question, demonstrating both a deep understanding of the text and its context.