Downloaded from hlayiso.com
NATIONAL SENIOR CERTIFICATE EXAMINATION
NOVEMBER 2018
ENGLISH HOME LANGUAGE: PAPER II
MARKING GUIDELINES
Time: 3 hours 100 marks
These marking guidelines are prepared for use by examiners and sub-examiners,
all of whom are required to attend a standardisation meeting to ensure that the
guidelines are consistently interpreted and applied in the marking of candidates'
scripts.
The IEB will not enter into any discussions or correspondence about any marking
guidelines. It is acknowledged that there may be different views about some
matters of emphasis or detail in the guidelines. It is also recognised that,
without the benefit of attendance at a standardisation meeting, there may be
different interpretations of the application of the marking guidelines.
IEB Copyright © 2018 PLEASE TURN OVER
Skip to contentMemorandum 











View all





English HL Grade 12 IEB Paper 2 2018 Memo
IEB Grade 12 English HL Paper 2 memorandum from the 2018, 14 pages. Read online or get the free PDF download, question paper linked when available.
Publisher: IEB
English HL · Grade 12 · 2018. Memorandum, 14 pages. Read online or download the PDF.
- Subject
- English HL
- Grade
- Grade 12
- Document type
- Memorandum
- Year
- 2018
- Paper
- 2
- Publisher
- IEB
- Curriculum
- IEB
- Pages
- 14
- File size
- 295.5 KB
Loading document…
Loading document…
1 of 14
Document textSearch extracted text and jump to a page.
Downloaded from hlayiso.com
NATIONAL SENIOR CERTIFICATE: ENGLISH HOME LANGUAGE: PAPER II Page 2 of 14
MARKING GUIDELINES
ASSESSMENT RUBRIC: SHAKESPEARE: THE MINI ESSAY
• Mind map may be used by candidate in planning but no marks are awarded for planning.
• Length of response (including quotations): approximately 450 words in length.
• Markers will stop marking essays at 500 words. In this instance the conclusion (provided that it is
succinct) will be considered.
• Penalty for excessive word length: Candidate's essay will move to one level lower.
• A word count at the end of the essay is required.
• The rubric is not a checklist (tick box) but should be considered as a guide when evaluating the
Mini Essay.
• Half marks may be awarded.
Level % 30 ASSESSMENT (Knowledge, Argument, Thinking, Structure)
7++ 100 30 FULL MARK ESSAY
(Extended Abstract Level)
EXCEPTIONAL
Highly eloquent response; exhibits academic rigour; strong individual voice;
confident knowledge of text
• The essay that is awarded full marks has greater depth and scope than a
level 7.
• Candidate displays an exceptional ability to develop an argument that is
academically superior.
• Resonates a sophisticated tackling of the topic.
• Quotations integrated with exceptional ability.
• Quotations and substantiation build an argument that is logically flawless
and which exceeds expectations.
• The style of the essay is fluid and elevated.
• The essay is error free.
7+ 99–90 29 DISTINGUISHED/IMPRESSIVE
28 (Extended Abstract Level)
27
EXCEPTIONAL/ELEVATED
An impressive and distinguished essay; succinct; selects information to build
an argument with sophistication; has depth of knowledge; dips into the text
with confidence; consistent question focus
• Quotations enhance a tightly constructed argument.
• Analytical concepts developed with precision.
• All aspects of the topic have been addressed with confidence and
distinction.
• Candidate displays a thorough and impressive, in-depth knowledge of the
text, perhaps even drawing on moments of the text that distinguish the
candidate's superior, refined knowledge and understanding.
• Exceptional ability to select information to develop a succinct, carefully
crafted argument.
• Impressive/exceptional evidence of candidate's original voice.
• Demonstrates impressive individual thought and understanding through
analysing and developing an arresting argument.
• Impressively integrates and elaborates on specific textual
references/evidence.
• Maintains consistent focus without deviating from the central concern(s) of the
question.
• Candidate is able to construct exceptionally critical, relevant and
consistent connections between topic question and argument, displaying a
convincing, impressive line of logical progression.
• Exceptionally lucid and logical.
• Thorough development of mini essay structure; succinct; focused
introduction and conclusion.
• Excellent transitions between paragraphs, which enhance the development of
the argument.
• Writing reflects an impressive command of spelling, language, diction and
punctuation.
IEB Copyright © 2018 PLEASE TURN OVER
Downloaded from hlayiso.com
NATIONAL SENIOR CERTIFICATE: ENGLISH HOME LANGUAGE: PAPER II Page 3 of 14
MARKING GUIDELINES
• Essay signposted throughout, indicating that the candidate has engaged with
the question with a commendable degree of confidence.
• Transfers knowledge of the question in an elevated manner.
THIS ESSAY MAY NOT EXCEED THE REQUIRED WORD LENGTH (WORD
LENGTH PENALTY).
7 89–80 26 COMMENDABLE/EXCELLENT
25 (Extended Abstract Level)
24
SOPHISTICATED/HIGHLY DEVELOPED
A sophisticated and perceptive essay that is commendable and well-
structured; substantiation from text enhances argument
(which requires minor polish for a level 7+).
• Argument is thoroughly developed.
• All aspects of the topic have been addressed with sophistication.
• Candidate displays a thorough, accurate and confident knowledge of the
text.
• Insightful understanding of the play.
• Excellent ability to select information to develop a succinct argument, which
is clearly focused and perceptive.
• Commendable evidence of candidate's original voice.
• Demonstrates sophisticated individual thought and understanding through
analysing and developing a highly developed argument.
• Commendably integrates and elaborates on specific textual
references/evidence, although at times these could have been used with
greater effect.
• Maintains consistent focus without deviating from the central concern(s) of the
question.
• Candidate is able to construct critical, relevant and consistent connections
between topic question and argument, displaying a convincing, sophisticated
line of logical progression.
• Lucid and focused, although there may be a sense that further logical
development could have enhanced this essay further.
• Commendable development of mini essay structure; succinct; focused
introduction and conclusion.
• Excellent transitions between paragraphs.
• Writing reflects an impressive command of spelling, language, diction and
punctuation, although there may be minor stylistic flaws.
• Essay signposted throughout, indicating that the candidate has engaged with
the question with a commendable degree of confidence.
• Transfers knowledge of the question in a commendable manner.
THIS ESSAY MAY NOT EXCEED THE REQUIRED WORD LENGTH (WORD
LENGTH PENALTY).
6 79–70 23 COMPETENT/GOOD TO VERY GOOD
22 (Extended Abstract Level)
21
SKILFUL/PROFICIENT
An above average response; proficient and skilful; competent and
focused; accurate; sound argument; logical; dips into the text skilfully;
minor lapses
• Argument is developed competently and may have minor lapses.
• All aspects of the topic have been addressed with conviction OR part of the
topic has been addressed with depth and sophistication (suggesting that if all
aspects of the question had been tackled this essay could have been awarded
a 7 or 7+).
• Candidate displays a competent, accurate knowledge of the text although
there may be minor gaps that do not impact on the strength of the argument.
• Proficient understanding of the play.
• Skilful ability to select information to develop an argument, which is mostly
focused and competent. The argument in instances could have been
developed further.
IEB Copyright © 2018 PLEASE TURN OVER
Downloaded from hlayiso.com
NATIONAL SENIOR CERTIFICATE: ENGLISH HOME LANGUAGE: PAPER II Page 4 of 14
MARKING GUIDELINES
• Skilful evidence of candidate's original voice.
• Demonstrates competent individual thought and understanding through
analysing and developing an argument with skill. There may be minor lapses,
which could have been enhanced with further development.
• Integrates and elaborates on specific textual references/evidence
skilfully/proficiently, although at times these could have been used with
greater effect.
• Candidate is able to construct relevant and consistent connections between
topic question and argument, displaying a convincing, proficient line of
logical progression.
• Lucid and focused, although there may be a sense that further logical
development could have enhanced this essay further.
• Competent development of mini essay structure; succinct; focused
introduction and conclusion.
• Skilful transitions between paragraphs.
• Writing reflects a competent command of spelling, language, diction and
punctuation although there may be minor stylistic flaws/An essay in this
category may be one where the candidate displays an ability to develop an
argument that is highly commendable and distinguished (which would result
in a level 7 or 7+) but is hindered by major stylistic flaws.
• Essay signposted throughout indicating that the candidate has engaged with
the question with a commendable degree of confidence.
• Transfers knowledge of the question in a skilful manner.
THIS ESSAY MAY NOT EXCEED 500 WORDS (WORD LENGTH PENALTY)
5 69–60 20 ACCEPTABLE/SUFFICIENT
19 (Multi-structural Level)
18
SATISFACTORY/ADEQUATE
An acceptable, satisfactory essay that has broadly tackled the question. An
essay that "does the job"; answers all aspects of the topic or part of the topic
tackled well; broad and general in places but voice in evidence; accurate.
• Argument is developed in an adequate manner and may have minor
lapses/some generalisations.
• All aspects of the topic have been addressed adequately, although these
may be understood only in part OR part of the topic has been addressed
competently, suggesting that if all aspects of the question had been tackled
this essay could have been awarded a 6.
• Candidate displays adequate knowledge of the text, although there may be
minor gaps that do not impact on the argument.
• Considerable understanding of the play – there must be a sense that the play
has been read and understood in broad, general terms.
• Adequate/sporadic ability to select information to develop an argument, which
AVERAGE = 20
is satisfactory and competent. The argument in instances requires further
enhancement and development.
• Some/sporadic evidence of candidate's original voice.
• Demonstrates adequate individual thought and understanding through
analysing and developing an argument sufficiently. There may be minor
lapses, which could have been enhanced with further development/the
argument is not fully sustained/developed throughout.
• Evidence of specific textual references/evidence that is adequate/acceptable,
although at times these could have been used with greater effect.
• Candidate is able to construct adequate connections between topic question
and argument, displaying a satisfactory progression.
• Generally focused, although there may be a sense that further logical
development could have enhanced this essay further.
• Adequate development of mini essay structure; satisfactory introduction
and conclusion.
• Adequate transitions between paragraphs.
• Writing reflects a satisfactory command of spelling, language, diction and
punctuation, although there may be minor stylistic flaws/An essay in this
category may be one where the candidate displays an ability to develop an
IEB Copyright © 2018 PLEASE TURN OVER
Downloaded from hlayiso.com
NATIONAL SENIOR CERTIFICATE: ENGLISH HOME LANGUAGE: PAPER II Page 5 of 14
MARKING GUIDELINES
argument that is competent (which would result in a level 6) but is hindered by
major stylistic flaws.
• Essay signposted generally, indicating that the candidate has engaged with
the question in a satisfactory manner.
• Transfers knowledge of the question in an adequate/satisfactory manner.
THIS ESSAY MAY NOT EXCEED 500 WORDS (EXCESSIVE WORD LENGTH
PENALTY).
4 59–50 17 MARGINAL/BASIC
16 (Uni-structural Level)
15
SKETCHY/BELOW AVERAGE/UNDEVELOPED
A basic, undeveloped essay that attempts to engage with the question albeit
limited and/or unsuccessfully in parts; has glimmer(s) of analysis; does not
always dip into the text; padded with narrative; slight evidence of voice.
• An attempt to develop an argument, although it might be lacking relevance in
parts/sweeping generalisations/narrow or inaccurate in parts.
• Simplistic interpretation/partly accurate understanding/narrow
interpretation of the topic/vague reference to the topic.
• Candidate displays simplistic/flawed knowledge of the text and the argument
is drawn simplistically. There may be glimmers of analysis and
engagement.
• Broad, general understanding of the play – there must be a sense that the play
has been understood in broad, general terms/comments show thought but
are not tied to the topic.
• An attempt to develop an argument, which may be successful in
parts/unconvincing argument, which lacks substantiation or development.
There may be some substantiation used without flair.
• Slight evidence of candidate's original voice.
• Demonstrates sporadic/inconsistent individual thought and understanding
through analysing and developing simplistically. There may be lapses which
could have been enhanced with further development/the argument is not fully
sustained/developed.
• Essay is padded with intermittent narrative and occasional argument.
• Textual reference is unconvincing at times and may be either inaccurate or
flawed.
• Candidate is able to make an inconsistent attempt to use some basic
transition words or phrases, resulting in a superficial progression on the
whole.
• Marginally focused with a sense that logical development could have enhanced
this essay.
• Introduction and conclusion are simplistic and may not point to an arguable
position.
• Writing is simple, unadorned/reflects an inconsistent and limited awareness
of register/inconsistent grammar, spelling and paragraphing.
• Essay lacks signposting throughout/limited, superficial signposting.
• Transfers knowledge of the question in a simple, basic manner albeit
unimpressively and with limited success.
THIS ESSAY MAY NOT EXCEED 500 WORDS (EXCESSIVE WORD LENGTH
PENALTY).
3 49–40 14 SIMPLISTIC/SUPERFICIAL/INADEQUATE
13 (Uni-structural Level)
12
UNSOPHISTICATED/ONE-DIMENSIONAL/LIMITED
A simplistic, superficial/flawed essay that struggles to engage with the
question; evidence that text has been read; thin voice; narrative; just meets
pass mark.
PASS = 12
• A weak response but still worthy of a pass.
• Inability to sustain a personal opinion.
• A flawed argument or no argument at all/provides a simple answer to the
question.
• Essay lacks clear and logical development of ideas.
IEB Copyright © 2018 PLEASE TURN OVER
Downloaded from hlayiso.com
NATIONAL SENIOR CERTIFICATE: ENGLISH HOME LANGUAGE: PAPER II Page 6 of 14
MARKING GUIDELINES
• Candidate displays a simplistic knowledge of the text and there are gaps in
understanding and/or interpretation.
• There will be areas in the essay that are problematic or illogical.
• Not much evidence of candidate's original voice – inability to sustain or develop
an argument.
• Little or no substantiation or referencing/flawed substantiation or referencing.
• Critical thinking skills used superficially, if at all.
• Reliance on narrative.
• Absent or ineffective transitions between paragraphs.
• Essay not signposted/signposted inadequately.
• Introduction and/or conclusion flawed, with further development and synthesis
required.
• Writing is flawed.
• Weak command of spelling, language, diction and punctuation.
• Does not transfer knowledge of the question and if it does, it will do so with
lapses.
THIS ESSAY MAY NOT EXCEED 500 WORDS (EXCESSIVE WORD LENGTH
PENALTY).
2 39–30 11 POOR/MUDDLED/VAGUE
10 (Pre-structural Level)
9
TENUOUS/UNFOCUSED/INACCURATE
A tenuous, poor essay; muddled and vague and/or inaccurate; no evidence
that text has been read; not worthy of a pass.
• A weak, flawed response, which might be completely off topic.
• Essay lacks coherence.
• Inability to state a personal opinion.
• Difficult to identify any distinct argument; unfocused.
• Candidate displays poor/incomplete/flawed knowledge of the text.
• The essay is vague, muddled and lacks focus.
• Little/no/flawed substantiation.
• Paragraph links problematic.
• Reliance on narrative.
• Essay not signposted.
• Introduction and/or conclusion flawed/missing, with further development and
synthesis required.
• Writing is marred by errors, although these will not impede understanding.
• Weak command of spelling, language, diction and punctuation.
THIS ESSAY MAY NOT EXCEED 500 WORDS (EXCESSIVE WORD LENGTH
PENALTY).
1 29–20 8 EXTREMELY WEAK/FEEBLE
7 (Pre-structural Level)
INEPT/UNSKILLED
An extremely weak essay; a feeble attempt to engage with the text at times.
• A weak, flawed response, which might be completely off topic.
• Inability to state a personal opinion.
• Difficult to identify any distinct argument; unfocused.
• Candidate displays a poor/incomplete/flawed/no knowledge of the text.
• The essay is vague, muddled and lacks focus.
• Little/no/flawed substantiation.
• Paragraph links problematic.
• Reliance on narrative.
• Essay not signposted.
• Introduction and/or conclusion flawed/missing, with further development and
synthesis required.
• Writing is marred by errors, which will impede understanding.
• Weak command of spelling, language, diction and punctuation.
THIS ESSAY MAY NOT EXCEED 500 WORDS/EXCESSIVE WORD LENGTH
PENALTY
IEB Copyright © 2018 PLEASE TURN OVER
Downloaded from hlayiso.com
NATIONAL SENIOR CERTIFICATE: ENGLISH HOME LANGUAGE: PAPER II Page 7 of 14
MARKING GUIDELINES
1 19–0 6 INCOMPETENT
5 (Pre-structural Level)
4
3 LACKING ABILITY/INEFFECTUAL
2 A totally incompetent essay that displays no link to the text or the question.
1
0 • This piece will not meet the requirements of the task on any level.
• Vague, irrelevant, flawed.
• Inappropriate response to the topic.
IEB Copyright © 2018 PLEASE TURN OVER
Downloaded from hlayiso.com
NATIONAL SENIOR CERTIFICATE: ENGLISH HOME LANGUAGE: PAPER II Page 8 of 14
MARKING GUIDELINES
ASSESSMENT RUBRIC: NOVELS: LITERATURE ESSAY(30 MARKS)
• Mind map may be used by candidate in planning but no marks are awarded for planning.
• Length of response: approximately 600–650 words in length. This is a suggested length as the
cohesiveness and development of the essay will take precedence over the length. There is no penalty
for length other than the development of the argument in the essay itself.
• A word count at the end of the essay is NOT required.
• The rubric is not a check-list (tick-box) but should be considered as a guide when evaluating the
Literary Essay.
• Half marks may be awarded.
Level % 30 ASSESSMENT (Knowledge, Argument, Thinking, Structure)
7++ 100 30 FULL MARK ESSAY
(Extended Abstract Level)
EXCEPTIONAL
Highly eloquent response; exhibits academic rigour; strong individual voice;
confident knowledge of text.
• The essay that is awarded full marks has greater depth and scope than a
level 7.
• Candidate displays an exceptional ability to develop an argument that is
academically superior.
• Resonates a sophisticated tackling of the topic.
• Quotations integrated with exceptional ability.
• Quotations and substantiation build an argument that is logically flawless
and which exceeds expectations.
• The style of the essay is fluid and elevated.
• The essay is error free.
7+ 99–90 29 DISTINGUISHED/IMPRESSIVE
28 (Extended Abstract Level)
27
EXCEPTIONAL/ELEVATED
An impressive and distinguished essay; succinct; selects information to build
an argument with sophistication; has depth of knowledge; dips into the text
with confidence; consistent question focus
• Quotations enhance a tightly constructed argument.
• Analytical concepts developed with precision.
• All aspects of the topic have been addressed with confidence and distinction.
• Candidate displays a thorough and impressive, in-depth knowledge of the
text, perhaps even drawing on moments of the text that distinguish the
candidate's superior, refined knowledge and understanding.
• Exceptional ability to select information to develop a succinct, carefully
crafted argument.
• Impressive/exceptional evidence of candidate's original voice.
• Demonstrates impressive individual thought and understanding through
analysing and developing an arresting argument.
• Impressively integrates and elaborates on specific textual references/
evidence.
• Maintains consistent focus without deviating from the central concern(s) of the
question.
• Candidate is able to construct exceptionally critical, relevant and consistent
connections between topic question and argument, displaying a convincing,
impressive line of logical progression.
• Exceptionally lucid and logical.
• Thorough development of literary essay structure; focused introduction and
conclusion.
• Excellent transitions between paragraphs, which enhance the development of
the argument.
• Writing reflects an impressive command of register, spelling, diction,
language and punctuation.
• Essay signposted throughout, indicating that the candidate has engaged with
the question with a commendable degree of confidence.
• Transfers knowledge of the question in an elevated manner.
IEB Copyright © 2018 PLEASE TURN OVER
Downloaded from hlayiso.com
NATIONAL SENIOR CERTIFICATE: ENGLISH HOME LANGUAGE: PAPER II Page 9 of 14
MARKING GUIDELINES
7 89–80 26 COMMENDABLE/EXCELLENT
25 (Extended Abstract Level)
24
SOPHISTICATED/HIGHLY DEVELOPED
A sophisticated and perceptive essay that is commendable and well
structured; substantiation from text enhances argument
(which requires minor polish for a level 7+).
• Argument is thoroughly developed.
• All aspects of the topic have been addressed with sophistication.
• Candidate displays a thorough, accurate and confident knowledge of the
text.
• Insightful understanding of the novel.
• Excellent ability to select information to develop a succinct argument, which is
clearly focused and perceptive.
• Commendable evidence of candidate's original voice.
• Demonstrates sophisticated individual thought and understanding through
analysing and developing a highly developed argument.
• Commendably integrates and elaborates on specific textual
references/evidence, although at times these could have been used with greater
effect.
• Maintains consistent focus without deviating from the central concern(s) of the
question.
• Candidate is able to construct critical, relevant and consistent connections
between topic question and argument, displaying a convincing, sophisticated
line of logical progression.
• Lucid and focused, although there may be a sense that further logical
development could have enhanced this essay further.
• Commendable development of literary structure; focused introduction and
conclusion.
• Excellent transitions between paragraphs.
• Writing reflects an impressive command of register, spelling, diction,
language and punctuation, although there may be minor stylistic flaws.
• Essay signposted throughout, indicating that the candidate has engaged with
the question with a commendable degree of confidence.
• Transfers knowledge of the question in a commendable manner.
6 79–70 23 COMPETENT/GOOD TO VERY GOOD
22 (Extended Abstract Level)
21
SKILFUL/PROFICIENT
An above average response; proficient and skilful; competent and
focused; accurate; sound argument; logical; dips into the text skilfully;
minor lapses
• Argument is developed competently and may have minor lapses.
• All aspects of the topic have been addressed with conviction OR part of the
topic has been addressed with depth and sophistication (suggesting that if all
aspects of the question had been tackled this essay could have been awarded a
7 or 7+).
• Candidate displays a competent, accurate knowledge of the text, although
there may be minor gaps that do not impact on the strength of the argument.
• Proficient understanding of the novel.
• Skilful ability to select information to develop an argument, which is mostly
focused and competent. The argument in instances could have been
developed further.
• Skilful evidence of candidate's original voice.
• Demonstrates competent individual thought and understanding through
analysing and developing an argument with skill. There may be minor lapses,
which could have been enhanced with further development.
• Integrates and elaborates on specific textual references/evidence skilfully/
proficiently, although at times these could have been used with greater effect.
• Candidate is able to construct relevant and consistent connections between
topic question and argument, displaying a convincing, proficient line of logical
progression.
IEB Copyright © 2018 PLEASE TURN OVER
Downloaded from hlayiso.com
NATIONAL SENIOR CERTIFICATE: ENGLISH HOME LANGUAGE: PAPER II Page 10 of 14
MARKING GUIDELINES
• Lucid and focused, although there may be a sense that further logical
development could have enhanced this essay further.
• Competent development of literary essay structure; focused introduction and
conclusion.
• Skilful transition between paragraphs.
• Writing reflects a competent command of spelling, language, diction and
punctuation, although there may be minor stylistic flaws/An essay in this
category may be one where the candidate displays an ability to develop an
argument that is highly commendable and distinguished (which would result
in a level 7 or 7+) but is hindered by major stylistic flaws.
• Essay signposted throughout, indicating that the candidate has engaged with
the question with a commendable degree of confidence.
• Transfers knowledge of the question in a skilful manner.
5 69–60 20 ACCEPTABLE/SUFFICIENT
19 (Multistructural Level)
18
SATISFACTORY/ADEQUATE
An acceptable, satisfactory essay that has broadly tackled the question. An
essay that "does the job"; answers all aspects of the topic or part of the topic
tackled well; broad and general in places but voice in evidence; accurate.
• Argument is developed in an adequate manner and may have minor
lapses/some generalisations.
• All aspects of the topic have been addressed adequately, although these may
be understood only in part OR part of the topic has been addressed
competently, suggesting that if all aspects of the question had been tackled
this essay could have been awarded a 6.
• Candidate displays adequate knowledge of the text, although there may be
minor gaps that do not impact on the argument.
• Considerable understanding of the novel – there must be a sense that the text
has been read and understood in broad, general terms.
• Adequate/sporadic ability to select information to develop an argument, which
is satisfactory and competent. The argument in instances requires further
enhancement and development.
• Some/sporadic evidence of candidate's original voice.
AVERAGE = 20
• Demonstrates adequate individual thought and understanding through
analysing and developing an argument sufficiently. There may be minor
lapses, which could have been enhanced with further development/the argument
is not fully sustained/developed throughout.
• Evidence of specific textual references/evidence that is adequate/acceptable,
although at times these could have been used with greater effect.
• Candidate is able to construct adequate connections between topic question
and argument, displaying a satisfactory progression.
• Generally focused, although there may be a sense that further logical
development could have enhanced this essay further.
• Adequate development of literary essay structure; satisfactory introduction
and conclusion.
• Adequate transition between paragraphs.
• Writing reflects a satisfactory command of register, spelling, language,
diction and punctuation, although there may be minor stylistic flaws/An
essay in this category may be one where the candidate displays an ability to
develop an argument that is competent (which would result in a level 6) but is
hindered by major stylistic flaws.
• Essay signposted generally, indicating that the candidate has engaged with the
question in a satisfactory manner.
• Transfers knowledge of the question in an adequate/satisfactory manner.
4 59–50 17 MARGINAL/BASIC
16 (Unistructural Level)
15
SKETCHY/BELOW AVERAGE/UNDEVELOPED
A basic, undeveloped essay that attempts to engage with the question albeit
limited and/or unsuccessfully in parts; has glimmer(s) of analysis; does not
always dip into the text; padded with narrative; slight evidence of voice.
IEB Copyright © 2018 PLEASE TURN OVER
Downloaded from hlayiso.com
NATIONAL SENIOR CERTIFICATE: ENGLISH HOME LANGUAGE: PAPER II Page 11 of 14
MARKING GUIDELINES
• An attempt to develop an argument, although it might be lacking relevance in
parts/sweeping generalisations/narrow or inaccurate in parts.
• Simplistic interpretation/partly accurate understanding/narrow
interpretation of the topic/vague reference to the topic.
• Candidate displays simplistic/flawed knowledge of the text and the argument
is drawn simplistically. There may be glimmers of analysis and engagement.
• Broad, general understanding of the text – there must be a sense that the text
has been understood in broad, general terms/comments show thought, but
are not tied to the topic.
• An attempt to develop an argument, which may be successful in
parts/unconvincing argument, which lacks substantiation or development.
There may be some substantiation used without flair.
• Slight evidence of candidate's original voice.
• Demonstrates sporadic/inconsistent individual thought and understanding
through analysing and developing simplistically. There may be lapses which
could have been enhanced with further development/the argument is not fully
sustained/developed.
• Essay is padded with intermittent narrative and occasional argument.
• Textual reference is unconvincing at times and may be either inaccurate or
flawed.
• Candidate is able to make an inconsistent attempt to use some basic
transition words or phrases, resulting in a superficial progression on the
whole.
• Marginally focused with a sense that logical development could have enhanced
this essay.
• Introduction and conclusion are simplistic and may not point to an arguable
position.
• Writing is simple, unadorned/reflects an inconsistent and limited awareness
of register/inconsistent grammar, spelling and paragraphing.
• Essay lacks signposting throughout/limited, superficial signposting.
• Transfers knowledge of the question in a simple, basic manner albeit
unimpressively and with limited success.
3 49–40 14 SIMPLISTIC/SUPERFICIAL/INADEQUATE
13 (Unistructural Level)
12
UNSOPHISTICATED/ONE-DIMENSIONAL/LIMITED
A simplistic, superficial/flawed essay that struggles to engage with the
question; evidence that text has been read; thin voice; narrative; just meets
pass mark.
• A weak response but still worthy of a pass.
• Inability to sustain a personal opinion.
• A flawed argument or no argument at all /provides a simple answer to the
question.
• Essay lacks clear and logical development of ideas.
• Candidate displays a simplistic knowledge of the text and there are gaps in
understanding and/or interpretation.
• There will be areas in the essay that are problematic or illogical.
PASS = 12
• Not much evidence of candidate's original voice – inability to sustain or develop
an argument.
• Little or no substantiation or referencing/flawed substantiation or referencing.
• Critical thinking skills used superficially, if at all.
• Reliance on narrative.
• Absent or ineffective transitions between paragraphs.
• Essay not signposted/signposted inadequately.
• Introduction and/or conclusion flawed, with further development and synthesis
required.
• Writing is flawed.
• Weak command of spelling, language, diction and punctuation.
• Does not transfer knowledge of the question and if it does, it will do so with
lapses.
IEB Copyright © 2018 PLEASE TURN OVER
Downloaded from hlayiso.com
NATIONAL SENIOR CERTIFICATE: ENGLISH HOME LANGUAGE: PAPER II Page 12 of 14
MARKING GUIDELINES
2 39–30 11 POOR/MUDDLED/VAGUE
10 (Pre-structural Level)
9
TENUOUS/UNFOCUSED/INACCURATE
A tenuous, poor essay; muddled and vague and/or inaccurate; no evidence that
text has been read; not worthy of a pass.
• A weak, flawed response, which might be completely off topic.
• Essay lacks coherence.
• Inability to state a personal opinion.
• Difficult to identify any distinct argument; unfocused.
• Candidate displays poor/incomplete/flawed knowledge of the text.
• The essay is vague, muddled and lacks focus.
• Little/no/flawed substantiation.
• Paragraph links problematic.
• Reliance on narrative.
• Essay not signposted.
• Introduction and/or conclusion flawed/missing, with further development and
synthesis required.
• Writing is marred by errors, although these do not impede understanding.
• Weak command of spelling, language, diction and punctuation.
1 29–20 8 EXTREMELY WEAK/FEEBLE
7 (Pre-structural Level)
INEPT/UNSKILLED
An extremely weak essay; a feeble attempt to engage with the text at times.
• A weak, flawed response, which might be completely off topic.
• Inability to state a personal opinion.
• Difficult to identify any distinct argument; unfocused.
• Candidate displays a poor/incomplete/flawed/no knowledge of the text.
• The essay is vague, muddled and lacks focus.
• Little/no/flawed substantiation.
• Paragraph links problematic.
• Reliance on narrative.
• Essay not signposted.
• Introduction and/or conclusion flawed/missing, with further development and
synthesis required.
• Writing is marred by errors that impede understanding.
• Weak command of spelling, language, diction and punctuation.
1 19–0 6 INCOMPETENT
5 (Pre-structural Level)
4
3 LACKING ABILITY/INEFFECTUAL
2 A totally incompetent essay that displays no link to the text or the question.
1 • This piece will not meet the requirements of the task on any level.
0 • Vague, irrelevant, flawed.
• Inappropriate response to the topic.
IEB Copyright © 2018 PLEASE TURN OVER
Downloaded from hlayiso.com
NATIONAL SENIOR CERTIFICATE: ENGLISH HOME LANGUAGE: PAPER II Page 13 of 14
MARKING GUIDELINES
ASSESSMENT RUBRIC: TRANSACTIONAL WRITING
(20 MARKS = 10 + 10)
• This rubric serves to guide the marking process.
• Markers should be aware that the mark for the PURPOSE AND CONTENT element need
not correspond with the mark for LANGUAGE AND REGISTER. A candidate may, for example, achieve
a level 7 for PURPOSE AND CONTENT, and a level 5 for LANGUAGE AND REGISTER (7 + 5 = 12).
• An approximate length of 250 words is a recommended guide but this is not prescriptive. Candidates
should be encouraged to write a text that is fully developed to meet the requirements of the assessment
rubric.
• Candidates need NOT write a word count at the end of their writing.
• Half marks may be awarded.
Level Mark PURPOSE, AUDIENCE AND CONTENT LANGUAGE AND REGISTER
Specific purpose of task; response to The ability to use the mechanics of
the requirements of question; manner in language; the ability to manipulate
which the structure and content language conventions to suit the purpose
responds to purpose and audience; of question; the use of appropriate
individual voice. register to match purpose and audience.
7+ 10 AN IMPRESSIVE SCINTILLATING IMPRESSIVE COMMAND OF LANGUAGE
9 RESPONSE AND REGISTER
Purpose of task is fully met; specific Impressive use of language conventions;
format of task (varied, flexible) adhered. elegance of style; tone and mood
Sophisticated cognisance of audience; appropriate to the task; plays confidently
writing suggests that this is a piece of work with language usage; thoroughly
that is significant, has depth and engaging. Virtually error free. Diction is
breadth, impressive detail. Ideas highly sophisticated.
developed fully. Organisation of thoughts is
impressive and superior, resulting in
writing that is compelling and striking.
Individual voice. Highly original. Supplied
text is used only as stimulus.
7 8½ A LIVELY, ORIGINAL RESPONSE EXCELLENT COMMAND OF LANGUAGE
Writing provides comprehensive insight, AND REGISTER
8 understanding and reflective thought by Highly sophisticated use of language
building a focused response to the conventions and excellent understanding of
purpose and audience. A cohesive register required for the task. Language is
viewpoint has been developed precise and engaging, with notable sense
throughout, resulting in a strong, of voice and awareness of audience and
consistent voice. Original, sincere and purpose. Effectively incorporates a range of
creative. Shows clear development and varied sentence patterns to reveal syntactic
commendable depth of argument. A fluency. Writing reflects author's unique
clear, mature personal style. Skilfully personality through carefully selected diction
adapts to different audiences, purposes and register, rendering a piece that comes
and contexts. The supplied text is used to life.
only as stimulus with no cutting and
pasting into the transactional piece.
6 7½ A GOOD TO VERY GOOD (ABOVE A GOOD TO VERY GOOD COMMAND OF
7 AVERAGE) RESPONSE LANGUAGE AND REGISTER
Writing, on the whole, provides consistent Competent and at times, impressive use of
focus, understanding and thought. language. Very good understanding of
Glimmers of a focused response but lacks register to suit the purpose of the task.
consistency, which could have resulted in Language is fluent and original with evident
the writing being awarded a level 7. awareness of audience and purpose.
Evidence of personal style and voice, Incorporates varied sentence patterns that
although depth and development reveal an awareness of different syntactic
compromised in places/development and structures. May employ liveliness, sincerity
depth in evidence but personal style or humour when appropriate; the writing at
lacking or compromised. The supplied times may be too casual/personal/formal to
text is used generally as stimulus – the demands of the question. Errors do not
limited cutting and pasting impede readability. Some editing is needed.
integrated/moulded with own ideas.
IEB Copyright © 2018 PLEASE TURN OVER
Downloaded from hlayiso.com
NATIONAL SENIOR CERTIFICATE: ENGLISH HOME LANGUAGE: PAPER II Page 14 of 14
MARKING GUIDELINES
5 6½ AN ADEQUATE (AVERAGE) RESPONSE AN ADEQUATE COMMAND OF
6 An ordinary, predictable response that LANGUAGE AND REGISTER
broadly meets the requirements of the task. Use of appropriate language and register,
An awareness of audience and purpose, although not always consistently applied.
although not always convincing/consistent. Makes some attempt to include different
Makes an attempt to respond sincerely sentence patterns but with awkward or
albeit unconvincing in places. Evidence of uneven success. Occasional errors that
personal voice in places, although some detract from the writing fluency in places. In
areas jar with the question requirements. places errors may impede readability. The
Content suggests that ideas could have purpose, audience and register have been
been developed further. The supplied text understood in places. Writing is ordinary.
is used as stimulus on occasion –
cutting and pasting integrated/moulded
with own ideas.
4 5½ A LIMITED (BELOW AVERAGE) A LIMITED COMMAND OF LANGUAGE
5 RESPONSE AND REGISTER
Ideas in the paragraphs may be Register suggests limited awareness of
inconsistently organised. Glimmers of audience and purpose. Limited range of
originality, despite limited success in taking syntactic structures. Uses words that are
into account different audiences and colourless and flat. Language may be
purposes. Superficial response. Limited repetitious. Errors begin to impede
personal style. Development of ideas is readability. Editing required for clarity of
limited/partial and requires further ideas. Register not consistent with question's
elaboration; compromised development. demands.
Personal voice is limited. Over-reliance on
supplied text, which hinders personal
response in places.
3 4½ AN INADEQUATE, COMPROMISED AN INADEQUATE COMMAND OF
4 RESPONSE LANGUAGE AND REGISTER
Ideas have in instances been compromised Language is flawed and unsuitable for
by insufficient depth, development and audience or purpose. Language patterns
organisation. The purpose of the task has flawed, images stereotyped. Errors severely
been tackled unsuccessfully. Vague in impede readability; extensive editing
places. An inconsistent or incomplete required. Vague, confused sentences.
attempt. Glimmer of personal voice, albeit Register inappropriate for the task.
unconvincing. The writing is
compromised and lacks focus and
direction. Over-reliance on supplied
text, which hinders personal response.
2 3½ A POOR, MUDDLED RESPONSE A POOR COMMAND OF LANGUAGE AND
3 Little or no originality. Individual ideas REGISTER
lacking. No development and focus. Very flawed product. Erroneous.
Cohesion required. No personal style. Demonstrates lack of control of language
Reveals no awareness of the purpose of conventions, exhibiting frequent errors,
the task. Voice is flat and unconvincing/no which impedes understanding.
voice. Relies solely on supplied text.
1 2½ AN INCOHERENT RESPONSE INCOHERENT/INAPPROPRIATE
2 No evidence of originality or cohesion; no LANGUAGE AND REGISTER
1 attention to purpose, context. Development Incoherent language/inappropriate language.
lacking. A completely flawed response/ Preponderance of errors of style. Illogical.
does not address the question.
Total: 100 marks
IEB Copyright © 2018
Study this subject
Revise the topics in this paper, then practise them question by question.
- Grade 12 English Hl notes
CAPS revision notes with worked examples.
- English Hl questions by topic
Past exam questions sorted by CAPS topic, with memos where available.
- All Grade 12 English Hl past papers
Past papers by year, with memos where available.
- Grade 12 IEB past papers
More English HL and other subjects in this collection.
Recommended for this subject
More papers and memos for this grade and subject.

MemorandumIEB
English HL Grade 12 IEB Paper 1 2019 Memo

MemorandumIEB
English HL Grade 12 IEB Paper 2 2019 Memo

MemorandumIEB
English HL Grade 12 IEB Paper 1 2018 Memo

MemorandumIEB
English HL Grade 12 IEB Paper 1 2017 Memo

MemorandumIEB
English HL Grade 12 IEB Paper 2 2017 Memo

MemorandumIEB
English HL Grade 12 IEB Paper 1 2016 Memo
Related documents

Question paperIEB
English HL Grade 12 IEB Paper 2 2018 Question Paper

MemorandumIEB
English HL Grade 12 IEB Paper 2 2016 Memo

Question paperIEB
English HL Grade 12 IEB Paper 1 2018 Question Paper

AddendumIEB
English HL Grade 12 IEB Paper 1 2018 Addendum

Question paperIEB
English HL Grade 12 IEB Paper 2 2019 Question Paper

Question paperIEB
English HL Grade 12 IEB Paper 2 2017 Question Paper
More from Grade 12 English HL

Question paperIEB
English HL Grade 12 IEB Paper 1 2019 Question Paper

AddendumIEB
English HL Grade 12 IEB Paper 1 2019 Addendum

Question paperIEB
English HL Grade 12 IEB Paper 1 2017 Question Paper

Question paperIEB
English HL Grade 12 IEB Paper 1 2017 Question Paper

AddendumIEB
English HL Grade 12 IEB Paper 1 2017 Addendum

Question paperIEB