Exam-style question
Try this first
A student produces a project whose problem is too simple to be of A-level standard. Their documented design fully or nearly fully articulates how the solution is structured. Explain the mark adjustment that should be made and discuss why the technical solution must not be included in the same downward adjustment.
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- The documented design should first be judged against the criteria.
- The described performance would achieve Level Four, worth 10-12 marks, if the project were of A-level standard.
- Because the selected problem is too simple, the award is shifted down by two marking levels to Level Two, worth 4-6 marks.
- The technical solution must not be included in this same adjustment because the specification expressly excludes the technical solution from the downward shift.
Explanation
Why this works
The example in the requirement supplies the Level Four to Level Two adjustment. The response also needs to recognise that the rule is not applied indiscriminately: the technical solution is the stated exception.
Common mistake
No common mistake is linked to this question yet.