A guide to level marking...

Use the information on this page to solve the mystery of LEVEL MARKING...

Remember...the truth is out there...

Questions from recent GCSE examinations will be tackled by the geogeordie in an attempt to show you the style of answer that would get you marks in each of the three different levels:

Basic (1-2 marks) or (1-3 marks)
Clear (3-4 marks) or (4-6 marks)
Detailed (5-6 marks) or (7-8 marks)

Let's see examples of answers to the following question:

Using examples of earthquakes, explain why some cause more deaths than others (6 marks)

Pupil X wrote...

"If the earthquakes are really big more houses will fall down than with small earthquakes so more people will die. And if there are lots of people in a city then there will be more deaths than if you were in a field."

Notice the simple statements and lack of examples


Pupil Y wrote...

"If an earthquake is large (high on the Richter Scale) it is likely to cause more deaths than if it is small. Some earthquakes happen in LEDCs where the buildings are not built as well and so collapse more easily killing more people. This happened in Bam, Iran in December 2003. Also, if an earthquake hits a city, more people will die as there will be a greater population density than in the countryside."

Notice the use of clear statements that are explained in more detail. An example, although brief, is also used.


Pupil Z wrote...

"Earthquakes that hit poor, less wealthy areas of a country do more damage, as seen in Bam, Iran in 2003, where an earthquake at 6.5 on the Richter Scale killed thousands. The people died because poor quality houses made from mud and wood crumbled under the shaking, creating dust which prevented breathing, and debris that crushed people. Three days previously, a quake also measuring 6.5 on the Richter Scale hit the USA. It killed only 3 people, because buildings are built with iron and steel frames, as well as reinforced concrete, and as a result buildings remained standing causing less deaths. Alaska, in 1964 which was a huge earthquake, killed only 131 people due to such a low population density. On the other hand, Japan, 1995, the death toll was 5500 as the quake hit a major city in which population density was very high. Another reason for more deaths is resources, as seen in Afghanistan in 2003. A level 6 quake on the Richter Scale killed 2000 and 3000 were injured. Resources were scarce, resulting in rescue teams not having the means to gain access."

Notice how this answer is made up of many clear statements. This answer is detailed and makes good use of examples. There is also a good structure (three main points with associated examples).