Marking Criteria for GCSE English

Speaking and Listening (En 1)

Grade A*

(49-54) marks

Candidates show an exceptionally high ability in handling a wide range of roles. They adapt readily to task and audience, showing originality andflair where appropriate, and exhibiting a depth of understanding of challenging content. They are sensitive in their choice of speech style and their use of standard English vocabulary and grammar is mature and assured. They listen perceptively to a range of complex speech.

Grade A

(43-48 marks)

Candidates initiate speech and take a leading role in discussion, responding in detail to the ideas of others. They understand and discuss aspects of challenging content. They show an assured use of standard English vocabulary and grammar in a range of situations and for a variety of purposes. They listen and respond to a range of complex speech.

Grade B

(37-42 marks)

Candidates speak purposefully in a range of contexts of increasing complexity, managing the contributions of others. They exhibit confidence and fluency in talk and show effective use of standard English vocabulary and grammar in a range of situations. They listen with some sensitivity and respond accordingly.

Grade C

(31-36 marks)

Candidates speak with fluency and make significant contributions to talk in a variety of different contexts. They show a competent use of standard English vocabulary and grammar in situations which demand it. They adapt their talk to a range of different audiences, showing judgement in their choice of style and delivery to interest listeners. They listen closely and sympathetically, responding as appropriate.

Grade D

(25-30 marks)

Candidates make relevant contributions to talk and are able to organise speech in collaborative contexts, varying their style of delivery as appropriate. They are increasingly aware of the need for, and use of, standard English vocabulary and grammar. They listen carefully and make responses which show some understanding.

Grade E

(19-24 marks)

Candidates speak confidently in different contexts, showing sensitivity to situation and audience. They generally use standard English vocabulary and grammar where appropriate. They listen with concentration to a range of talk.

Grade F

(13-18 marks)

Candidates speak with some confidence in a range of familiar contexts, communicating clearly and adapting and organising talk to audience and purpose. They use some features of standard English vocabulary and grammar appropriately. They listen carefully to a range of talk and respond appropriately.

Grade G

(7-12 marks)

Candidates speak and listen with regard to personal interests and familiar contexts. They speak audibly and listen to others, showing some recognition of the functions of standard English.

Unclassified

(1-6 marks)

Candidates make some attempt to speak and listen