WJEC GCSE Geography A

Marking the Fieldwork EnquiryLessons from the moderation of controlled

assessment in 2013

AO1 – Knowledge & Understanding

• AO1 is generally marked accurately although some centres mark generously in level 4 where candidates need to:

• ‘Draw detailed conclusions that are fully consistent with the evidence’ rather than ‘sound’ conclusions of level 3.

AO2 – Application • Many candidates still provide only fleeting

evidence that they understand the wider concepts that underpin their particular enquiry.

• Consequently, marking is generous when centres award marks at level 4 where conclusions are simple and straightforward rather than perceptive and informed.

Not all rivers are typical

AO3 – Geographical Skills• In some centres there is a tendency for

generous marking where the teacher has designed and structured the enquiry and where candidates have been unable to show evidence of independence.

• Candidates need the opportunity to be able to pose their own geographical questions in order to access levels 3 and 4.

AO3 – Geographical Skills

• Generous marking gives credit when:– Candidates have processed all the

data (often using a limited range of techniques) rather than selecting relevant data and then selecting a variety of appropriate techniques.

– Candidates have failed to reflect on the validity and limitations of the evidence.

annotation• Annotation aids moderation of a

summative assessment.• Mark the work using the published

mark scheme or grid.• If you use the grid – use highlighters.

Note the page number within the report.

• Mark the evidence in the report in the margin eg AO2 L3. This annotation helps the moderator.

• In larger centres please moderate within the department