The four assessment criteria (A–D)
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Flip to reveal answersWhat are the four Paper 1 criteria?
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All 10 Flashcards — The four assessment criteria (A–D)
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Question
What are the four Paper 1 criteria?
Answer
A Understanding · B Analysis & evaluation · C Focus & organisation · D Language.
Question
Criterion A rewards…
Answer
Understanding and interpretation, supported by well-chosen references.
Question
Criterion B rewards…
Answer
Analysis AND evaluation of the writer's choices (not feature-spotting).
Question
Criterion C rewards…
Answer
A focused, well-organised response (intro, paragraphs, conclusion).
Question
Criterion D rewards…
Answer
Clear, precise, academic and accurate language (your own writing).
Question
How is each criterion scored at SL?
Answer
Each out of 5 — total /20.
Question
Where do most students lose marks?
Answer
B (describing not evaluating) and C (listing devices, no focus).
Question
Can one good sentence hit several criteria?
Answer
Yes — an evaluated, quoted, precisely-worded point hits A, B and D at once.
Question
What earns Criterion C across the essay?
Answer
Keeping every paragraph pointed at one clear thesis.
Question
Do the criteria matter equally?
Answer
Yes — each is /5; don't chase one and neglect the others.
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Full study notes for The four assessment criteria (A–D)
Topic 3.1 hub
The guided-analysis method
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English A Lang & Lit exam skills
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