Entry Level Certificate in ESOL International (Entry 3 ...€¦ · Gatehouse Awards Entry Level Certificate in ESOL International (E3) Writing Mark Scheme Gatehouse Awards Entry Level

Gatehouse Awards Entry Level Certificate in ESOL International (E3) Writing Mark Scheme

Gatehouse Awards

Entry Level Certificate in ESOL International (Entry 3)

WRITING

MARK SCHEME


Overview of the Writing Assessment The Entry 3 (B1) Writing examination consists of three tasks. The total time allocated for the Writing examination is 50 minutes. Examiners will base their assessment decisions on the Candidate examination scripts. Assessment decisions will be subject to moderation activity and scripts will also be checked by our internal staff as part of a regular sample, and in situations where Examiners report any irregularities or identify potential instances of malpractice during the written examination. The pass mark for the writing examination is 66%. Overview of Candidate Knowledge, Skills and Understanding

Unit Name: GA IESOL Writing – Entry 3 CEFR Criteria met/assessed via:

Unit Number: M/503/8746

Candidate can: write messages communicating enquiries, explaining problems or conveying simple information, getting across comprehensibly the points he/she feels are important

Gatehouse Awards Writing Task 1

write personal letters describing experiences, feelings and events in some detail.


write very brief reports to a standard conventionalised format, which pass on routine factual information and state reasons for actions.


write straightforward connected texts on a range of familiar subjects within his/her field of interest, by linking a series of shorter discrete elements into a linear sequence.

Gatehouse Awards Writing Tasks 2 & 3

write straightforward, detailed descriptions on a range of familiar subjects within his/her field of interest.

Gatehouse Awards Writing Task 2 & 3

http://register.ofqual.gov.uk/Unit/Details/M_503_8746


Writing Task 1 - Short Informal Message (8 marks) Indicative Performance Levels The performance samples below are designed to provide Examiners with illustrations of the range of written texts that can be expected. Each sample is accompanied by Examiner’s comments, which provide additional guidance and explanation why marks have been allocated. Two marks should be given for each element of the task (i.e. requesting in the bullet points in the task) relevant and intelligible. One mark should be given for partially correct information. If the task has not been attempted, has been entirely misinterpreted, or the response is illegible, a score of ‘0’ is awarded. Sample Task 1 You plan to meet your friend Ali for a coffee on Saturday. However, you now need to cancel. Write a short note to Ali:

apologising for cancelling cancelling the arrangement explaining why you need to cancel suggesting another date

Write 50 – 60 words. Sample Answer 1

Hi Ali

I am very sorry. I have to cancel our coffee on Saturday. I can’t come with you because I’m taking my son to the doctor. He’s been ill all week.

How about we go at Monday next week? I can meet you at the café at about 11am.

Love,

Zahir


Examiner’s comment: Sample 1 covers all four points listed in the task, and it is highly relevant and legible. Despite a

slight error with the preposition on Line 4, the note fully meets the standard expected at Entry

level 3 (B1). A full score of 8/8 is given.

Sample Answer 2

Examiner’s comment:

Sample 2 covers the first three points required in the task. However, one point is deducted for

the first element of information as the Candidate wrote ‘I feel bad’, which although does imply

an apology, does not explicitly state this. The note is relevant and legible and even though

there is a simple mistake in line 2, it does not detract from the message. The fourth element of

information has not been covered, therefore 2 points have been deducted.

Marks

1st element of information

2/2

2nd element of information

2/2

3rd element of information

2/2

4th element of information

2/2

Total marks available for task 1

8

Total marks awarded for task 1

8

Hello my friend

I am no coming for coffee with you on Saturday this weekend. I feel bad about this. I can’t come because I need to work on Saturday.

Love from

Mosh.


Score

Sample Answer 3

Examiner’s comment

Sample 3 does not address either of the first two elements required by the task. It appears that

the Candidate has not fully understood the task, but they have not entirely misinterpreted it,

therefore no further marks will be awarded. The Candidate does not cancel an existing

arrangement or apologise, therefore no marks are awarded for these elements. Despite

explaining illness in the note, the Candidate has not used this information to intelligibly cancel

the meeting. She does, however, propose an alternative day for the meeting. Not fully relevant

to the task, this will be awarded only half marks for that element.

Marks


1/2


2/2


2/2


0/2


8


5

Hello, Ali how are you today? I not well today and I have a cold. I very busy with college classes. Do you want coffee on Saturday? I’m not working on Saturday. If you can come, please call me on 07845 5522. If Saturday is not good with you, we can have coffee on Sunday.

Love from

.Your Friend, Sujata.


Score

Marks


0/2


0/2


2/2


1/2


8


3


Writing tasks 2 and 3 When making the assessment decision, examiners are reminded that:

A score of ‘3’ in any given area, in any given task: indicates that the Candidate has fully met the requirements and has met, or even exceeded, the level of skills, knowledge and understanding at Entry 3 (B1) level. The knowledge, skills and understanding are clearly fully established.

A score of ‘2’in any given area, in any given task: indicates that the Candidate has met the level of skills, knowledge and understanding at Entry 3 (B1) level required in the majority of areas, whilst other areas may be in need of some refinement. The knowledge, skills and understanding are established in the majority of areas although in some areas may still be in the process of being consolidated.

A score of ‘1’ in any given area, in any given task: indicates that the Candidate’s

knowledge, skills and understanding at Entry 3 (B1) level are still emerging. The Candidate makes attempts at demonstrating the knowledge, skills and understanding; however does not meet the requirement in the majority of areas.

A score of ‘0’ in any given area, in any given task: indicates that the Candidate does not

have the ability to attempt the task and does not have the knowledge, skills or understanding to produce the writing expected at Entry 3 (B1) level.

Writing Task 2 – Long Composition (informal) The Candidate’s performance in this task is scored based on the following four categories:

Task Achievement

Vocabulary (including range, control and spelling)

Grammar (including range and control)

Structure (including coherence, format, punctuation)

The total number of marks available for the task is 15.


Task 2 Mark Scheme 3 2 1 0

Task Achievement Weighted x2

Candidate covers all four points required in the task and word count is met or exceeded.

Candidate covers at least three of the points required in the task and word count is met.

Only one or two points required by the task are covered and/or word count is substantially below what is required.

Text produced is mostly not relevant to the task and/or less than 50% of the required word count produced. No further marks will be awarded for the task.

Vocabulary (range and control, including spelling)

Candidate’s vocabulary

range allows them to easily

complete the task. Few

errors of vocabulary usage,

including spelling.

The range of language used is

sufficient to get by in the

interaction required, with some

elements of circumlocution.

Vocabulary errors do not

compromise the

communication.

The range of vocabulary is

limited and/or lexical

items frequently misused.

Uses basic sentence

patterns with some

memorised phrases.


inadequate for the level, and

does not allow the candidate

to complete the task.

Grammar (range and control)

Uses a wide range of

structures expected at this

level with reasonable

accuracy, with few mistakes

present.

Uses an adequate range of


level.

Errors are present but the meaning is still clear.

Uses only a limited range

of very simple structures

correctly. Frequent errors

in structures expected at

this level result in

communication being

disrupted.

The range of structures is




Structure (coherence, format, punctuation)

There are clear paragraphs including introduction, development and conclusion. The text is cohesive and coherent. Few or no punctuation errors.

Candidate uses paragraphs mostly correctly. To signify introduction, development and conclusion. The text is mostly cohesive and coherent. Punctuation errors do not impede communication.

Limited attempt at the use of appropriate format or cohesive devices. Punctuation errors are frequent.

The Candidate shows no awareness of appropriate format or cohesive devices. Punctuation errors make the text almost impossible to follow.


Indicative Performance Levels The performance samples below are designed to provide Examiners with illustrations of the range of written texts that can be expected. Each sample is accompanied by Examiner’s comments, which provide additional guidance and explanation why marks have been allocated or deducted. Sample Task 2

You went to your cousin’s wedding last week. Write an email to your friend telling them about the wedding. You should write about: The place where the wedding was held The atmosphere on the day The food that was served What you enjoyed the most

Write 90-100 words. Sample Answer 1

.

Hello Maria

I hope you are ok. Do you remember my cousin Amy? Her wedding was last week!

It was in Northport so I had to go on the train and then Amys sister picked me up from the

station. The wedding was in an old church in the city centre, and everyone feeled very happy

and excited for the young couple!

All my family were there, and lots of friends. We had a big dinner in a room decorated with

white flowers. The food was really tasty. But my favourite part was the first dance – Amy

danced so beautifuly with her husband.

I hope my wedding will be so beautiful!

See you soon

Carina


Examiner’s comment The text addresses the task very well. All four required elements have been addressed, and the word limit has been exceeded. The Candidate has demonstrated a wide range of vocabulary and grammatical structures which are accurately and consistently applied despite a couple of errors (‘feeled’ instead of ‘felt’,’beautifuly’ instead of ‘beautifully’). Whilst one of the errors is in a structure which should be mastered at the level (past verb form), elsewhere in the text the Candidate demonstrates that she is able to apply this structure correctly. The answer also clearly demonstrates the Candidate’s ability to write in an informal style and structure such a text cohesively. Despite minor errors, this answer is awarded full marks. 15/15 Score Task Achievement x2 Vocabulary Grammar Structure

3 x 2 3 3 3


Sample Answer 2

Examiner’s comment:

This is a good text overall, which addresses most elements of the task (venue, food, the most

enjoyable aspect, but not the atmosphere). The text meets the word count expectation. A

sufficient range of structures are used, but some inaccuracies occur in structures and spellings.

Vocabulary is used mostly correctly, and spelling is accurate enough to be followed most of the

time. Grammatical errors do not distract the reader and can be interpreted correctly based on

the context. The text is organised in a linear description with clear paragraphs, and appropriate

register is used. 11/15

Score

Task Achievement x2 Vocabulary Grammar Structure 2 x 2 2 2 3

Dear Evi,

I’m writing about a wedding I attended. It was in June that I went to it. I like to make

weddings, do you like the weddings too?

I was waiting since two years to go to this wedding and it was more good than others. It was at

family home. The bride wore a red sari. Her husband was looking very hansome.

It was a big wedding with tradishonal band for music playing in the garden and dining rooms.

A feast was neccesary and served for the evening guests and it was hot and spicy food, and

that I enjoyed the most.

Take care

Noreen.


Sample Answer 3

Examiner’s comment The text in sample answer 3 does not meet the standard expected at Entry 3 (B1) level. It covers approximately 50% of the expected word count and there are multiple grammatical and vocabulary errors throughout the letter. The Candidate does not give any detail in her description and the vocabulary is limited, including the word ‘presence’- it is unclear whether it is a spelling mistake for ‘presents’ or a poor lexical choice in a phrase referring to ‘atmosphere’. The grammatical errors are present in structures which should be established at this level. Spelling mistakes throughout also detract from coherence. In addition, linking devices are limited to the use of conjunction ‘and’, with the separation of lines indicating only a rudimentary ability to organise the text. 6/15 Score Task Achievement x2 Vocabulary Grammar Structure

1 x 2 1 1 2

Dear Vincent My daurter and I went to a wedding gone before last month in England. I found the wedding a suprise very good. Do you like to go? I am happy to see it and never see that before these days. Chefs prepare all us very nice bankuet and guests gives many nice presence.. Clara


Writing Task 3 – Long Composition (formal) Task 3 requires the Candidate to write a formal letter, report or simple essay. Stimulus material is provided. The purpose of this task is to test the Candidate’s ability to use more formal language, present an account of factual information, and make a recommendation. They are expected to produce 90-100 words. The Candidate’s performance in this task is scored based on the following four categories:

Task Achievement

Vocabulary (including range, control and spelling)

Grammar (including range and control)

Structure (including coherence, format, punctuation)

The total number of marks available for the task is 15.


Task 3 3 2 1 0

Task Achievement Weighted x2

Candidate summarises all factual information relevant to the task. Word count is met or exceeded.

Candidate summarises most of the factual information relevant to the task and word count is met.

The text produced covers only limited elements of the content required by the task and / or word count is substantially below the level.

Text produced is not relevant to the task and/or less than 50% of the required word count produced. No further marks will be awarded for the task.

Vocabulary (range and control, including spelling)

Candidate’s vocabulary

range allows them to easily

complete the task. Few

errors of vocabulary usage,

including spelling.

The range of language used

is sufficient to get by in the

interaction required, with

some elements of

circumlocution. Vocabulary

errors do not compromise

the communication.


limited and/or lexical

items frequently misused.

Uses basic sentence

patterns with some

memorised phrases.





Grammar (range and control)

Uses a wide range of


level with reasonable

accuracy, with few mistakes

present.

Uses an adequate range of


level.

Errors are present but the meaning is still clear.

Uses only a limited range

of very simple structures

correctly. Frequent

errors in structures

expected at this level

result in communication

being disrupted.

The range of structures is




Structure (coherence, format, punctuation)

There are clear paragraphs including introduction, development and conclusion. The text is cohesive and coherent. Few or no punctuation errors.

Candidate uses paragraphs mostly correctly. To signify introduction, development and conclusion. The text is mostly cohesive and coherent .Punctuation errors do not impede communication.

Limited attempt at the use of appropriate format or cohesive devices. Punctuation errors are frequent.

The Candidate shows no awareness of appropriate format or cohesive devices. Punctuation errors make the text almost impossible to follow.


Indicative Performance Levels The performance samples below are designed to provide Examiners with illustrations of the range of written texts that can be expected. Each sample is accompanied by Examiner’s comments, which provide additional guidance and explanation why marks have been allocated or deducted. Sample Task 3 Your manager has asked you to organise a weekend break for all the staff. You have looked at two possible locations. Write a formal letter to your manager comparing the two locations, and recommend one of them. Write 90-100 words. Here’s a copy of your notes:

Place 1 – Blackpool How far: 120 miles. Very busy & noisy! Popular with young people ( bars & nightclubs).

Cheap accommodation (bed & breakfast hotels).

Place 2 – Bridlington How far: 30 miles. Quiet and relaxing. Popular with retired people. Nice for walks.

Higher cost of accommodation!

Place 2 – Bridlington How far: 120 miles. Quiet and relaxing. Popular with retired people. Nice for walks.

Higher cost of accommodation!


Sample Answer 1

Examiner’s comment Some complex sentence structures and the mostly accurate use and range of grammar and vocabulary in this text indicate that the Candidate is clearly meeting and exceeding what is expected. The word count has been significantly exceeded and a comprehensive summary of all the facts has been provided, the content is all relevant and the text is accurate in the most part, with only two spelling errors, one instance of incorrect verb form and an incorrect pronoun, which do not detract from the meaning at all. The ideas are presented logically, with excellent use of paragraphing and organisation of text. 15/15 Score

Task Achievement Vocabulary Grammar Structure 3 x 2 3 3 3

Dear Mr Jones Regarding the staff weekend break. I have looked at two locations for the short break, and would like to tell you what I have found and suggest that us book to go to Birdlington. I find that Blackpool is over 3 hours away and although it’s cheap to stay, it may be busy in August. I’m not sure it’s the right place as staff don’t like nightclubs. I found that Bridlington is a relaxing location for our short break and it’s not too far to travel. There’s a good theatre in the centre and tickets are good value. It’s also good for walks in the fresh air. It might be sligtly more expensive for the hotel but I really encourage you to choose this break as it would be popular. Yours, Barbra.


Sample Answer 2 Examiner’s comment This is a good letter, which addresses all elements of the task, despite the mistake of referring

to a day out rather than a weekend break. The text meets the word count expectation. A range

of grammatical structures and vocabulary are used accurately, but some inaccuracies occur in

structures and spellings. The errors don’t lead to any misunderstandings for the reader and the

whole text can be interpreted correctly. However, the text is not well organised, with no

attempt to use paragraphs although the introduction ‘dear manager’ and ‘sincerely’

demonstrates some limited understanding of the need to format a letter. 9/15

Score


Dear manager

I write about the day we are arranging for us and for the other staff. I looked at two

places that are nice for small holiday for staff and here it is. We can go to Blackpool in the

north or Bridlington. One is very busy and the second one is quiet. Blackpool is popular

with young people who like to go for drinks in the bars but the other is better for us

because it is nice for the cinema and walking around in. Bridlington is the place that is

better as it is the quieter place with good walks and I am advicing that this is the holiday

you choose too if it is not too expensive for the company.

Sincerely, Taj


Sample Answer 3 Examiner’s comment The response here is below the level required. The text does not make a comparison between the locations detailed in the stimulus material and it does not cover the relevant points in the task, yet there is an attempt to make a recommendation. The structures used are basic, contain some errors and the Candidate here makes little attempt at expanding on the topic. The recommendation is clear in the final line of the body of the letter. The text organisation shows that the Candidate has recognised the requirement for a more formal text by use of the heading but has been unable to consistently apply this and produce a letter format other than the initial address. The text is significantly under the word count expected, at just over 50% of the minimum required. 5/15 Score


WEEKEND WITH STAFF IN COMPANY To My Manager We are now interested in a weekend with staff at Blackpool place location. It is a nice location for nightclubs. We no know the prices hotels in locations. What will we pay? The Blackpool location is not expenshive. Let’s go to Blackpool next weekend together. Thank you Zara.

Documents

Entry Level Certificate in ESOL International (Entry 3 ...€¦ · Gatehouse Awards Entry Level Certificate in ESOL International (E3) Writing Mark Scheme Gatehouse Awards Entry Level