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Examination Report
June 2014
Contents
3
1 Comments on Overall Performance
The Delta Module One examination was taken by over 550 candidates from 77 centres in a wide
range of countries. As in previous sessions, mean scores were above half the marks available for
the exam for the candidature as a whole.
Percentages of candidates achieving both Merit and Distinction grades remained stable and
more than 70% of candidates achieved a Pass. Key reasons why candidates may not achieve
pass standard are as follows:
• The most common reason is that they do not possess sufficient knowledge and
experience to be able to address the different tasks and are therefore unable to perform
at Delta standard.
• A large majority of candidates have a very poor knowledge of language systems,
particularly describing grammatical and lexical form/use and phonology which can result
in a significant loss of marks in Paper One, Tasks 4 and 5. Candidates and centres alike
need to increase / improve their level of language input.
• Some candidates who enter the examination without having taken a preparation course
may have insufficient awareness of task requirements. Candidates should refer to the
previous Module One Examination reports. These give clear guidance as to what
candidates have to do in order to increase their chances of success in the examination.
• Some candidates who follow a preparation course may have received inadequate or
inaccurate centre guidance. From Examiner comments this year, this seems to have been
less of a problem than in previous sessions although some lack of accurate guidance is
still evident, particularly in terms of phonology.
• Some candidates continue not to manage their time effectively. As has been stated in
previous examination reports, Task 4 in both Papers One and Two and Task 5 in Paper
One carry a large number of marks and candidates are strongly advised to allow
adequate time for these tasks. Candidates are free to attempt the tasks in the order of
their choosing and those candidates who attempted the high scoring tasks first were
therefore able to complete them fully and maximise the number of marks that they could
gain for them. The majority of candidates attempted all the tasks but tended to
omit/produce minimal answers for section (d) in Paper One, Task 4 although it is not clear
whether this was because of lack of time or lack of knowledge.
The mean score for Paper 1 was around 55% but it was slightly lower for Paper 2 at 53% with the
overall mean score being entirely in line with previous sessions. In Paper One, Task 1 candidate
performance was reasonable, with the average number of marks achieved being 4 (see page 6 for
marks allocation by task). Candidates performed better in Task Two than in previous sessions with
the average number of marks achieved being 6. Task 3 performance was well in line with previous
sessions with an average of 9 marks achieved. The mean score of 29 for Task 4 continued to show
improvement. Candidates performed less well in Task 5 in this session with an average score of 8
marks as opposed to 12 in June 2013. Overall, candidates performed better on Paper One than in
the last three sessions.
In Paper Two, Task 1 continued to generate a high number of marks with more than half the
candidates achieving at least 12 marks. The mean score for Task 2 continued to be 16, as it was
in June 2013. However, candidates generally performed better on part (a) than on part (b) which
continues to reflect the fact that candidates need more experience, and possibly training, in
identifying the kind of principles that can inform the design of teaching material. Candidate
performance in Task 3 was slightly lower than in June 2013 with the average score being 4
marks. As in June 2013, the mean score for Task 4 was 21 marks. Examiners noted that the
4
majority of candidates responded well to the focus on approaches to teaching language and were
able to approach both parts of the task with confidence. Overall, Paper Two scores were lower
than the last three sessions because of the focus on reading skills in Tasks 2 and 3 but this was
balanced by a slightly stronger response to Paper One which indicates that candidate
performance was balanced over the two papers.
Please see each task for examiner comments on individual task performance.
General advice
Candidates are strongly advised to do the following in order to maximise their performance in the
examination:
• read the previous Examination Reports in detail to ensure that they understand how to
approach each task and how the marks are allocated. These are available on the
Cambridge English website.
• make use of the suggested times given on the question papers to complete each task -
the times relate to the number of marks available for the questions. Candidates are not
penalised if they outline more features than asked for in Paper One, Tasks 3 and 5, and
in Paper Two, Tasks 1 and 2b, but they should note that this is a dangerous strategy as
providing more features than asked for takes away time from other tasks. Adding one
more feature in these tasks may be a useful safety net but doing more than this can
jeopardise other tasks.
• read question rubrics very carefully, underlining or highlighting key points they contain. It
is essential that candidates provide the information asked for and do not provide
unrequested information. While no marks are deducted for wrong or irrelevant
information, candidate time is wasted and no marks are gained by providing unrequested
information.
• plan the order in which they are going to answer the tasks and complete at least two full
mock examinations in timed conditions to get used to the exam format and time
requirements.
• do not waste time making rough notes – there is no time available for this. Instead
candidates should do what is suggested in the above bullet point and do more tasks
under timed conditions to get used to the requirements and formats of the different tasks.
• follow the layout as suggested in each task. Use bullet points to organise their answers
and save time.
• start each task on a new page and clearly label their answers, showing what task or part
of a task they are answering.
• lay their answers out with plenty of space – candidates might find it easier to write their
answers on every other line in the answer booklet. Many answers were very cramped and
written in the margins, making it very difficult for Examiners to mark the tasks. Candidates
need to consider their audience and by leaving extra space, they can include more points
later in the exam if they realise that they have something more to add.
5
2 Delta Module One Markscheme
In Delta Module One, candidates accumulate marks across questions and it is the total
number of marks obtained across the two papers that determine which grade a candidate
is awarded. Candidates do not therefore gain a grade for each task.
Answers are marked against a detailed markscheme containing guideline answers, with
candidates being awarded marks for each correct answer given. Relevant alternative
wordings and examples are accepted. The number of marks available for each task is as
follows:
Paper 1 Paper 2
Task 1 6 Task 1 20
Task 2 12 Task 2 30
Task 3 15 Task 3 10
Task 4 40 Task 4 40
Task 5 27
Grand
Total 100 Total 100 Total 200
Points made twice within an answer are not credited twice and no marks are deducted
for wrong answers.
Paper1 Task 1
One mark is awarded for each correct answer.
Paper 1 Task 2
A total of three marks are available per answer:
one mark for the basic definition
one mark for a further point made
one mark for a correct example
Note: The further point is only awarded if the basic definition is correct; only one further
point is allowed per question; the example can be awarded a point, even if the definition is
not correct.
Paper 1 Task 3
One mark is awarded for each language feature correctly identified.
A further two marks are awarded for each correct example / illustration. An example
cannot be awarded marks if the feature is not identified.
Paper 1 Task 4
One mark is awarded for each point correctly made up to a
maximum of 40.
Note: in a, there is a maximum of five marks available and a mark is only
awarded if a correct example is given.
6
Paper 1 Task 5
a
One mark is awarded for each strength correctly identified up to a maximum of
three marks.
One mark is awarded for each example from the text illustrating the strength
identified, up to a maximum of three marks. Note: no mark can be given for an
example if its accompanying strength has not been correctly identified.
One mark is awarded for each weakness correctly identified up to a maximum of
three marks.
One mark is awarded for each example from the text illustrating the weakness
identified, up to a maximum of three marks. Note: no mark can be given for an
example if its accompanying weakness has not been correctly identified.
Additional marks may be awarded for knowledge and insight into why and how the
strengths and weaknesses aid or negate the effectiveness of the text.
b
One mark is awarded for each justification given for the weakness prioritised, up to
three marks.
One additional mark is awarded for each justification that is fully developed.
Paper 2 Task 1
One mark is awarded for each positive / negative feature identified. An additional
mark is awarded for each positive / negative feature identified if its application to the
learner is also identified.
Up to two additional marks are awarded for accurate use of four testing terms
throughout the answer. However these additional marks cannot be awarded if
more than two terms are used inaccurately and the use of the terms must occur
in valid points.
Paper 2 Task 2
Two marks are awarded for each purpose correctly identified.
One mark is awarded for each assumption listed.
Two additional marks are awarded for two reasons given for an assumption.
Paper 2 Task 3
One mark is awarded for each correct point made, up to a maximum of 10.
Paper 2 Task 4
Two marks are awarded for each correct point made, up to a maximum of 40.
7
2.3 Grading
Results are recorded as three passing grades (Pass with Distinction, Pass with Merit,
Pass) and one failing grade (Fail).
At the end of the marking process, there is a grading meeting to determine precisely
how many marks are required to obtain each of the passing grades. The grade
boundaries are set in a way that ensures that the level of knowledge required to obtain
the three passing grades:
is consistent with the band descriptors on page 7 of the Delta Modules Handbook
is the same from one session to the next
does not vary as a result of slight variations in the difficulty of the papers.
8
3 Paper 1 Task 1
For examples of Task 1 questions, detailed feedback on how to approach this task, and
comments on sample answers, see previous Examination Reports on the Cambridge English
Teaching Support website.
4 Paper 1 Task 2
For examples of Task 2 questions, detailed feedback on how to approach this task, and
comments on sample answers, see previous Examination Reports on the Cambridge English
Teaching Support website.
5 Paper 1 Task 3
The extract for this task is a writing activity for upper intermediate (CEFR B2) level learners.
Identify a total of five key language features learners at this level would need in order to
complete the activity successfully. Provide an example specific to this activity to support each
choice.
9
5.1 Guideline Answer
10
5.2 Candidate performance
The average number of marks gained for this task was 9 with most candidates being able to
identify and give an appropriate example of 3 features although lack of clear exemplification
often resulted in a loss of marks. Candidates appeared to have followed the advice from the
2013 report and were better able to identify the different types of functional language which
learners would need to complete the task successfully. Most answers were succinct and
clearly laid out.
11
5.3 Sample Answers
Skill: paragraphing – Students need to build their essays by grouping their ideas in
meaningful paragraphs in order to make it easier for the reader to follow.
Ex. Introduction - stating the topic/giving general info
Body (can be more than one) – suggestions for the schools
– reasons why they are helpful
Conclusion – summarising /
Skill: cohesive devices – Students need to use linkers in order to link their ideas meaningfully
to make it easier for the reader to understand the logical connection between ideas
(coherence)
Ex. Schools should provide students with internship opportunities so that they can have
experience before they face the worklife.
Skill: Use of modals – Students need to use a variety of modals to give suggestions to
schools, to talk about necessary changes to be made in schools etc. to express their
opinions and possible arrangements
Ex: Teachers need to guide students in their choice of profession.
Skill: use of academic language: In an essay, students need to use grammatical structures
that sound more academic – Passives. The agent is clear => schools so students need
to show that they give importance to the actions to be done by schools.
Ex: Students’ needs should be considered before developing a course plan.
Skill: Use of lexis – students need to use lexical items related to education in order to express
their ideas clearly.
Ex: curriculum => schools need to develop their curriculums by considering their students’
professional needs.
5.3.2 The following sample answer gained over half the marks available for this task
1. Grammar
Use modals to talk about what schools should do to prepare students.
e.g. “Schools must provide…”,
“Schools should give…”
2. Organisation
Clear paragraphs outlining the different topics.
2.1. Introduction
2.2. What schools should do
2.3. Practical skills vs general academic education The pro’s
2.4. Practical skills vs general academic education The con’s
2.5. Conclusion including personal opinion
3. Language for contrasting/comparing information
12
on one hand practical schools should….
on the other hand academic….
While academic schools should, the practical….
Acedemic … whereas practical …
5.3.3 The following sample answer obtained a third of the marks available
Cohesion – conjunctions for contrast e.g. furthermore, on the one hand, on the other hand.
14
6 Paper 1 Task 4
a The text is an article from a popular scientific magazine about the results of a recent study.
Identify five features of the text that are characteristic of its genre. Give one example of
each feature you identify. Do not include more than one feature of layout.
b Look at the following extracts from the text. Comment on the form and use of the
referencing items in bold as they are used in the text.
c Look at the following extracts from the text. Comment on the form of the multi-word verbs
in bold.
(ii) Identify a total of three possible problems of connected speech and word stress which
learners might have with the following:
a features of article from popular scientific magazine about results of recent study
Layout
• Picture
• Quote in bold “In Singapore it’s pretty clear that these systems would pay for themselves in
energy savings”
• Heading/title/different font size for heading Take control of your personal office
environment
• Caption / name of author Devouring electricity, Mason Inman
Organisation
• Short paragraphs in newspaper style making it accessible to non scientists e.g. lines 5-9
• Quotes interspersed between scientific facts e.g. “In an environment like Singapore ...
(lines 42-45) + Air Conditioning is a major drive ... (lines 46-49)
15
Content
• Quotes / direct speech from scientific groups to confirm scientific basis of points made, e.g.
lines 42-45 for direct speech example.
• Comments / reporting verbs e.g. Berkeley say their research shows (line 15), points out
environmental engineer Peter Nielson of Aalborg University (line 59),
• Citation full name and status used at first mention; surname only for subsequent mentions /
reference to name is given after quote, e.g. Stefano Schiavon. University of California,
Berkeley (lines 13-15) Schiavon (line 45)
• Factual information / reference to research findings/survey data e.g. Air conditioning ... and
accounts for the bulk of electricity used by buildings in Singapore (lines 46-49)
Grammar / Lexis
• Lexis related to scientific activity/research to show article is underpinned by science, e.g.
study (line 5), approach (line 10), research (line 16), simulated (line 19)
• Tentative language typical of unproven scientific claims, e.g. suggests (line 8), hinted (line
52), can (line 52)
• Passive to focus on scientific processes, e.g. is relied on (line 22), needs to be cooled (line
26)
• Informal / spoken / colloquial style to show it is a popular article, e.g. contractions WE’RE
(line 1); discourse markers though (line 55); lexis e.g. pretty clear (line 43)
• Long noun phrases e.g. A study of the effect of ... fingertips suggests (lines 5-8)
• Depersonalised topic sentences focussing on the processes to confirm scientific rigour /
seriousness e.g. Past research has shown (line 50)
• Rhetorical question to get the reader’s attention Why not in buildings too? (line 4)
• Present / past simple past simple for process, e.g. simulated (line 19) / present simple for
facts/results, e.g. needs (lines 25, 28)
Use
• Anaphoric reference to researchers at Berkeley / Stefano Schiavon and his colleagues
• Avoids repetition (of the researchers at Berkeley) / makes the text more concise
Use
• Anaphoric reference to an office building (in line 19)
16
in cooler climates, where on cold days the number of people (lines 60-62)
Form
• Relative pronoun
• Preceded by a comma
Use
• Anaphoric reference to cooler climates
• (Used to introduce) a non-defining relative clause
• Refers to a place / indicates that the writer wishes us to consider climates as a place or
group of countries rather than its literal meaning
• Makes the text more concise / avoids repetition
The following terms had to be spelt correctly for marks to be awarded for points made:
Relative / Pronoun / Definite / Article / Anaphoric / Subject
The following terms had to be spelt correctly for marks to be awarded for points made:
Participle / Intransitive / Separable / Adverb / Infinitive / Modal / Preposition
d
(i) form and use of the verbs in bold
17
We’re used to taking command (line 1)
Form
• Gerund
• Formed by adding suffix/morpheme/inflexional/bound morpheme/ –ing to the infinitive/base
form (take)
• Final e dropped
• Needed after (be) used to / part of verb pattern / used after preposition (to)
Use
• Object (of be used to)
• Delexicalised verb / the meaning is not within take but within the noun that follows it
(command)
• Part of the collocation take command
Use
• (Part of) participle clause
• It’s more concise / ellipsis of it is / takes the place of the adverbial clause while it is keeping
/ it’s more concise than an adverbial clause
Use
• Subject
• More concise / impersonal than saying If we raise…
(ii) Possible problems of connected speech and word stress (NB: only credit three
problems)
Raising a building’s temperature even a little…
• Liaison / catenation / consonant + vowel linking: Raising a /˜W/; even a/nW/
• Linking ‘r’ / intrusive /r/: temperature even temprWtjWri:vWn/
• Weak form of a /W/
• Mis-placement of stress in temperature
• (Possible) assimilation of /z/ to /s/ in building’s (because of the unvoiced /t/ at the beginning
of temperature)
18
The following terms had to be spelt correctly for marks to be awarded for points made:
Participle / Linking / Liaison / Ellipsis / Catenation / Transitive / Gerund / Intrusion / Intrusive /
Suffix / Inflectional / Morpheme
c form and use of verb forms: having identified; is approved; have returned
The focus on multi-word verbs was accessible to all the candidates although quite a few
rephrased this information from the rubric as phrasal verbs in their answer. It discriminated
well between those candidates who knew the difference between adverbs and prepositions as
particles and those who did not. Those candidates who had been trained to provide a high
level of detail in terms of form performed well.
d form of to
This part of Task 4 proved to be the most challenging as candidates struggled to identify the
correct form of the different –ing forms, provide enough detail in terms of form and also in
terms of problems of connected speech and word stress although most candidates were able
to identify two to three problems. It is unclear whether the fact that candidates performed
worse on this part of the task was because of lack of knowledge or lack of time or a
combination of both factors.
20
The most common points identified were:
• Final e in taking / raising is dropped
• -ing is needed after used to
• Raising is the subject
• Liaison/catenation/consonant + vowel linking
• Linking ‘r’/intrusive /r/
• Weak form of a /W/
• Mis-placement of stress in temperature.
6.3.1 The following sample answer gained a high number of the points available
4. a)
1) Title followed by the main body of the text.
- e.g. ‘Take control of your personal office environment’
WE’RE used to …
b) They:
Form:
- personal pronoun
- third person pural
- followed by a verb
use:
- anaphoric reference
- refers back to Stefano Schiavon and colleagues (lines 13-14)
- subject of the verb simulated
- avoids repetition
the:
Form:
- definite article
-followed by a noun
use:
22
- anaphoric reference
- refers back to ‘an office building’ (line 19)
- known information
- indicates which building we are referring to
where:
Form:
- relative pronoun
comma before it
c) taken off
Form:
- taken = past participle of the verb ‘take’
- take = regular verb
- off = adverb
- take off – intransitive multi-word verb
- ‘taken off’ is the past participle in the present perfect simple
- preceded by the auxiliary verb ‘have’ (has)
turned up:
Form:
- turn = regular verb
- turned = past participle
- up = adverb
- turned up = intransitive phrasal verb
- part of a passive construction ‘to be turned up’
pay for:
Form:
- pay = bare infinitive
- irregular verb (pay – paid – paid)
- transitive verb
- for = preposition
- dependent preposition
- follows modal verb ‘would’
d) i) taking
Form:
- present participle
- irregular verb (take – took – taken)
- transitive verb
- bare infinitive ‘take’ minus ‘e’ plus ‘-ing’
- part of the structure be used to + verb + ing
use:
keeping:
Form:
-
23
Raising:
Form:
- gerund
- transitive verb
- regular verb
- remove ‘e’ from bare infinitive and add ‘-ing’
- followed by a noun
use:
- subject of sentence
ii)
- weak form of ‘a’ pronounced with schwa /ə/
- liaison (constant – vowel linking)
e.g. Raising ‿ a /reɪzɪŋə/
even ‿ a /iːvənə/
- connecting or intrusive /r/
temperature ‿ even /temp(ə)rətʃəriːvən/
- word stress on temperature
Part a
The candidate only gains two out of a possible five marks for this section: the use of a title
and comments made by the researchers. The other three features listed could not be
credited because candidates can only be awarded for one feature of layout (the inclusion of
the name of the author is a second one); the use of relative clauses is not a key feature;
and the style of the article is informal rather than neutral. The layout of this part of the task
is clear.
Part b
The candidate is very detailed and accurate in this part of her answer and she makes 13
points out of a possible 15 with regard to form and use. She identifies all of the points in
terms of form and use of they and the and the form of where but as with other candidates
finds the analysis of the use of where more challenging and fails to recognise that it is used
to make the text more concise. She forgets to use the term anaphoric reference and
instead writes refers back to cooler climates and so misses a mark and includes irrelevant
information on non-defining relative clauses when she writes that where cannot be
replaced by that and that it adds non-essential information. Again, the layout is neat, her
spelling of terminology is accurate and it is very helpful to the examiner that she has
written on every other line and used bullet points.
Part c
Here the candidate gains 12 out of a possible 16 marks. She identifies 4 out of the 5 points in
terms of taken off and whilst it is very positive that she correctly identifies the form of off as
an adverb and states that the verb form is the present perfect simple, it is strange that she
states that taken is a regular rather than irregular verb. In terms of turned up, she identifies 4
out of a possible 7 points: it is formed of a regular past participle and adverb in the passive.
However, as with other candidates, she mis-identifies turned as being intransitive rather than
transitive and does not state that it is separable. She gains full marks for her analysis of pay
for as she makes all the points in the Guideline Answer. Layout and spelling are also
strengths in this part of her answer.
24
Part d
The candidate struggles in the first part of the task and the fact that she gains full marks for the
second part and provides a good level of detail suggests that the reason for her poor
performance in the first part is due to a lack of knowledge rather than a lack of time. She
makes 3 points in terms of the form of taking (it is formed from the bare infinitive of take, minus
e, plus –ing), but was unable to make any points in terms of the form and use of keeping, and
repeated the same information for the form of raising with the additional points that it is a
gerund and transitive. The fact that she gains less than a third of the available marks for this
part of the task indicates the challenge that candidates generally found with the analysis of
gerund and present participle forms. In terms of part (ii), she identifies four possible problems
of which the first three were credited as the rubric specifically asked for three problems. The
problems are clearly stated and illustrated with an accurate use of the phonemic script and
symbols to show the features of linking and word stress.
6.3.2 The following sample answer gained three quarters of the marks available for this
task
4a Grammar
− Use of direct and indirect speech mixed to talk about opinions of key people
− For example:- “engineer Stefano Schiavon say their research…” L13; “In an
environment like Singapore,” Schiavon says.
2 Layout
Main headline, in a large font; short paragraphs in smaller font of one or two sentences; name
of author at the bottom; picture and caption at the bottom,
For example “Take Control of Your Office Environment”, headline; “Main Item”, author;
“Devouring electricity”, caption.
3 Register
− Mostly formal register, with some semi-formal touches
− e.g.: ”individual vents…” (formal) putting control at each worker’s fingertips (semi-formal)
“personalized approach” (formal)
4 Grammar
− Use of present simple for talking about currents facts connected to the results.
− For example: “a study suggests”, “the approach costs more…”
5 Lexis/vocabulary
Lexis connected to the lexical field of research studies and results.
For example; “their research”, “results showed”, “they simulated”.
4b They stimulated…
Form:
− Third person plural pronoun
− Anaphoric reference to Stefano Schiavon and his colleagues in the previous paragraph
− Subject pronoun
Use:
Creates cohesion by connecting the ideas and the grammar of the previous paragraph to the
new one
− Formal register
− Avoids repetition
25
The building’s energy
Form:
− Definite article
− Proceeds a noun phrase
− Noun phrase constitutes “an office building” in the previous sentence – Singular
determiner
Use:
− Used because the building in question has already been introduced and we know which
one it is
− Creates internal cohesion
4c Taken off
Form:
− Multi-part verb
− Formed from a verb and a preposition (take + off)
− Present perfect simple tense
− 3rd person singular
− Taken is in the past participle form.
− Subject is “the approach”
− Phrasal verb
Turned up
Form
− Passive form
− No agent (obvious from the context, therefore ellipsis of agent)
− Multi-part verb (phrasal verb)
− Formed of verb (turn) and preposition (up) creating a new meaning
− Turned is in past participle form
− Infinitive passive
Pay for
Form:
− Bare infinitive and preposition (for)
− Bare infinitive as verb follows modal verb (would)
− 3rd person plural
− Literal meaning
− Conditional form – 2nd Conditional
26
4d (i) Taking
Form:
− Gerund (-ing form)
− Acts as part of a noun phrase with command
− Final “e” removed
− Irregular form
− Object phrase
Use:
− Semi-formal tone
− Gerund indicates an activity
− Habit
− Implies power
Keeping
Form:
− Present participle
− Regular form
− Present continuous
− Ellipsis of subject and “is” due to context making it obvious
− 3rd person singular
Use
− Ellipsis of “is” and “subject” to create cohesion in that repetition.
− Implies formality
Raising
Form:
− Gerund
− Part of a noun phrase with “a building’s temperature even a little”
− -ing form
− “e” removed
− irregular form
− subject of sentence
Use
− Formal register
− Refers to a concept
− Indicates activity
(ii)
1. There should be stress upon the even as this is one of the most important new features
of the sentence and may not be otherwise stressed.
2. Building’s temperature. The learner might assume the “ing” is pronounced /y/. In fact,
most British readers will elide the /g/ sound
3. Consonant clusters. In “building’s temperature,” there are three consonants in a row
which may be difficult for some students to pronounce.
Part a
The candidate gains four out of a possible five marks for this section: the use of a title;
direct speech; the present simple to talk about facts; and lexis related to research. The
point about formal/semi-formal style is inaccurate and the other features about layout (the
use of a picture and caption) could not be credited because candidates can only be
awarded a mark for one feature of layout. The four features are all accompanied by an
example.
27
Part b
The candidate makes 10 points out of a possible 15 in terms of form and use. He identifies
all of the points with regard to the form and use of they apart from the fact that it is a
personal pronoun. In terms of the, he does not gain a mark for its use because he does not
use the term anaphoric reference when he writes the building in question has already been
introduced and we know which one it is. He is less confident in his analysis of where and
does not state that it is preceded by a comma; it is anaphoric reference to cooler climates;
is used to introduce a non-defining relative clause or that it refers to a place. There is some
vagueness when he writes for each item that they create cohesion.
Part c
The candidate’s response to this part of the task is less confident and he only gains 7 out of a
possible 16 marks. In terms of taken off, he only recognises that it is a past participle and is
used as part of the present perfect simple. He states twice that it is a multi-part/phrasal verb
which is repetition from the rubric; mis-identifies off as being a preposition rather than an
adverb and includes unnecessary information that it is 3rd person singular (has is not bolded)
and the subject is the approach which is not included in the extract. In terms of turned up, he
only identifies that is formed of a past participle in the passive (stated twice). Again, he
includes unnecessary/inaccurate information that there is no agent, it is a multi-part/phrasal
verb and up is a preposition not an adverb. He is more confident with his analysis of pay for
as he makes three of the four points in the Guideline Answer, omitting the fact that it is a
transitive verb. However, the last three points are irrelevant or inaccurate: it is 3rd person
plural (the form does not change); it has a literal meaning (meaning is not asked for in the
rubric) and it is a second conditional (it is indirect speech).
Part d
In the first part of the task, the candidate makes 8 out of a possible 21 points but gains nothing
for the second part of the task despite outlining three potential problems. He makes 3 points in
terms of the form of taking (it is a gerund, formed without e and is the object of used to) but all
of the information provided for its use is inaccurate. His analysis of keeping is poor and he only
identifies that it is a present participle with ellipsis of it is. Regarding raising, as with the first
example, he identifies that it is a gerund with the e removed and that it acts as the subject of
the sentence. Whilst it is very positive that he correctly identifies when the items are gerunds
or the present participle, his answer contains quite a lot of irrelevant/inaccurate information
particularly in terms of use. In terms of part (ii), none of the problems cited could be credited
because they do refer to connected speech or word stress. The first one does not relate to
word stress and the second two relate to individual sounds in words which is not asked for in
the rubric – furthermore, the first of these is inaccurate and the second one is unclear because
the three consonants are not illustrated with the use of the phonemic script. This is a good
example of a candidate who has not read the rubric carefully and who also needs to have a
more secure knowledge of phonology.
28
6.2.3 The following sample answer gained less than a quarter of the marks available for
this task
Task Four a)
1. Layout is applicable to a news article
easy readable through paragraphing by public
eg large font size for header, columns, paragraphs, quotation in parenthesis in bold
2. Tone
clarity for readers, simple language,
eg the approach cosst more to install
4. Style appropriate to every day readers (popular) as well as scientific professional reader
eg putting controls at each worker’s fingertips
5. Consistency of register
Four b)
1. (line 19) They simulated an office building
Form:3rd person plural
subject noun
Use: anaphoric reference to research team
3. (line 60-62) in cooler climates, where on cold days the number of people
Form - determiner
- defining
- location
Use determiner relative clause
Four c)
1. and has never taken off commercially (11-12)
- to take off
collocation
meaning = become successfull
29
Four d)
1. we’re used to taking command (line 1)
Form:
Use:
2. backgrounding
subordinate clause which leads to the main phrase with more sense stress, repitition of
theme, weak
Part a
The candidate’s response to this part of the task is poor and he only gains 1 out of a
possible 5 marks when he identifies the use of a large font size for the heading. The
remaining points could not be credited for the following reasons: the points about the tone
and consistency of style are unclear and inaccurate; there is no example of the quotation;
he does not state what the style is (informal) and the example does not illustrate this; and
he does not state that the lexis is related to scientific activity and again the examples do not
illustrate this. Overall, the candidate’s response to the task suggests that he needs more
experience in text analysis.
Part b
The candidate’s response to this part of the task is also below Delta standard, particularly
in terms of his analysis of form, and he only gains 6 marks out of a possible 15 in terms of
form and use which are that: they is 3rd person plural and a subject and is anaphoric
reference to the research team; the is a definite article but he misses out on a mark for its
use because he does not use the term anaphoric reference; and where is used for
location.
30
Part c
The candidate’s response to this part of the task is minimal and he gains no marks for this
section. He does not attempt to analysis the form of the multi-word verbs and also fails to
analyse their use, but rather gives their meaning which is not required.
Part d
The candidate only gains 2 marks over the two parts of this task for the points that raising is a
gerund and there is linking between raising and a. He fails to provide any information on the
form or use of taking and the remaining information is either irrelevant (e.g. keeping is an
irregular verb), unclear (e.g. keeping denotes consistency, everyday), or inaccurate (e.g.
keeping is a gerund, raising is a relative clause, elision of the subject). In terms of the
phonological problems, the second one is unclear and the third one is irrelevant as it does not
focus on connected speech or word stress. Overall, it is clear from the candidate’s response to
the four parts of this task that his language analysis skills are not at Delta standard.
31
7 Paper 1 Task 5
The text (147 words) for this task is reproduced on the opposite page. It was spoken by a
learner in an elementary (CEFR A2) level class in response to the following task:
a Identify three key strengths and three key weaknesses of the text. Provide an example of
each strength and each weakness.
Your answer should focus on some or all of the areas listed below:
• Task achievement
• Accuracy of grammar
• Pronunciation: connected speech
• Pronunciation: diphthongs
• Pronunciation: word stress
b Which one of the weaknesses identified above would you choose to prioritise to help this
learner? Give three reasons for your choice.
Key strengths
• Task achievement
The learner describes the picture as required.
Example he describes the man he’s very sad, he confuse himself OR the bag and the keys
the bag is open and the keys falling down OR the clothes and the guitar There is a place to
put the clothes and under the clothes there is a guitar OR the kitchen and its contents
bread machine, table etc
[NB: candidates had to mention a minimum of one thing which is described]
32
• Accuracy of grammar
Appropriate/accurate/good control of subject-verb agreement / there is/are
Example there is a man, there is a bag, There is a place ... there is a guitar. There are two
chairs.
• Accuracy of grammar
Good/accurate control of articles/determiners/quantifiers
Example a bag the bag, the picture, some plates, so many plates
• Accuracy of grammar
Good control of singular + plurals (nouns)
Example bag, place, guitar, glass, keys, clothes, water, plates, clock, chair
[NB: candidates had to give an example of a singular and plural noun]
• Pronunciation – diphthongs
Good production of diphthongs /Wà/ and/or /Ɉ/
Example clothes, open and boiling
NB: candidates had to use the phonemic script to illustrate the correct diphthong
Key weaknesses
• Accuracy of grammar
Inaccurate use of preposition in instead of on
Example In the chair, in the table
• Accuracy of grammar
Overuse of the reflexive himself
Example a man is very disturbed himself, he confuse himself
• Pronunciation – diphthongs
Errors pronouncing diphthongs / confusion between /eˆ/ and /e/ OR replaces /ˆW/ with
/ˆÄ/ or /e/ OR confuses /eə/ with /e/
Example /eˆ/ and /e/ very /veɪrɪ/; place /ples/; bread /breɪd/; table /tebəl/
Example /ˆW/ with /ˆÄ/ or /e/ here /hˆÄr/, really /rˆÄlˆ/, materials /mæterɪælz/
Example /eə/ with /e/ there /zer/
NB: candidates had to use the phonemic script to illustrate the correct diphthong for
the example
33
• Pronunciation – Connected speech
No contracted forms, especially with there’s, there’re
Example there is a man, There are two chairs
34
• Pronunciation of diphthongs / confusion between /eˆ/ and /e/ OR replaces /ˆW/ with
/ˆÄ/ or /e/ OR confuses /eə/ with /e/
• Pronunciation – wrong word stress / equal stress on all syllables.
The least common strengths and weaknesses identified were:
• Accuracy of grammar – articles / determiners / quantifiers
• Pronunciation - diphthongs /Wà/ and/or /Ɉ/
• Accuracy of grammar – overuse of reflexive himself
• Connected speech – no contracted forms, especially with there’s, there’re.
7.3.1 The following sample answer gained most of the marks available for this task
5A 3 Key Strengths
Task achievement
− Student does describe what he can see in the picture – objects, the person and
positions of objects, even if he requires prompting by the teacher.
− For example: there is a man here … a man is very disturbed”, “(person) in the picture
(referring to the picture”, “in the chair there is a bag (referring to objects and the
positions of objects.
Pronunciation: dipthongs
− Some correct use of complicated dipthongs.
− Such as /eɪ/ and /Wà/
− the clothes /zəklðʊ’ziz/ and arranged /ærein’ʤed/
3 Key weaknesses
Accuracy of grammar:
− Misuse of prepositions.
− “In the chair”, “in the table”
− Effect of reader: Confusion about which object is referred to
Pronunciation: Dipthongs
− Mispronunciation of /eə/ dipthong
− “a man ‘here’ /hɪ:r/” “here is a table” / hi:ri:zə’ tebəl/
Accuracy of grammar
− Misuse of reflexive pronoun
− For example: “is very disturbed himself”, “he confuse himself”
5b Weaknesses to focus on
I would focus on the learners’ misuse of prepositions for three main reasons.
36
Reason 1:
− This is easy to remedy. A simple handout and explanation by the teacher can identify
this mistake easily and the rule for prepositions of place is quite simple.
Reason 2:
Transferable to other skills. The student may make the same mistake in writing and
misinterpret the meaning of “in” when listening. This can lead to confusion for himself and the
interlocutor.
Reason 3:
Fossilization. The learner is at A2 and this may be a translation produced by literally
translating a word from his language. If not remedied now, it could fossilize and become a
permanent error.
7.3.2 The following sample answer gained over half the marks available for this task
5 Strengths Weaknesses
Lexis Range
Good range of lexis for this level Pronunciation could have an overall neg effect
“bread machine” on the reader/listener as it is sometimes not
boiling water very clear
Use of collocations at this level leaves a / h i: r/ /v e i r ɪ/ /z e r a/ it’s distracting on
positive effect on the reader/listener the whole
1. Grammar
Good use of preposition (like) 1. Grammar
This is quite difficult for level A2 Poor use of prepositions would be
e.g. like a glass confusing for the listener
e.g. looks like a kitchen Many confusions with on/not in
37
in the table instead of on
2. Grammar in the upstairs
Good use of articles both definite and
indefinite articles 2. Poor pronunciation of th ð often
the table pronouncing it as /z/ (ð) needed there
a clock /z e r a/ /z e r i z ə/
the plates Poor pronunciation of plurals ie /ziz/
the chair clothes /ɵ s/
a bag
3. Over stress of some of the words such as
3. Task achievement ‘boiling water’
The learner completed the task well: /ʤed/ in /æ r e ɪ n’ʤ e d/
He used lexis to help him some of it very
complicated. 4. Connected speech could be hard to
He talked about the items he says within understand as he rolls many words into
the word limit each other
He described prepositions of place well h i:r i:zətebəl
although not always accurate he w i:pu:tmætriælz
attempted all of them in the bægizəʊpən
chair/in the table. tu: strong u sound connect with /p u: t/
Good pronunciation + connected speech would be hard to understand
good stress on word:
arranged /æ r e i n e d/ b) I would focus on the prepositions. It’s easy
Good use of pronunciation to leave a to work/focus on in class and would be
good impression on the motivating for student.
reader/listener It transfers to other genres and would be
h i: r = here easily rectified
is good for A2 level For future learning it will be of great help
to learner when advancing. Stop
fossilation early at A2 level is the key
7.3.3 The following sample answer gained very few of the marks available for this task
5)
a) Strengths
GRAMMAR
Given that this is an elementary student, their control of the present simple form is quite
good overall.
He is generally able to distinguish between ‘is’ and ‘are’ according to a singular or plural
noun e.g. The plates are not ready to
38
TASK ACHIEVEMENT
Overall the student does achieve the task by giving a good description of everything he can
see in the room, including quite a good amount of vocab
Weaknesses
DIPTHONGS
The student tends to use dipthongs where there is a weak vowel sound, therefore should be
pronounced as a schwa /ə/
e.g. /m æ t e r ɪ æ l z/
GRAMMAR
The student often uses the preposition of place ‘in’ incorrectly, where they should in fact be
using ‘on’
e.g. in the chair
CONNECTED SPEECH
The use of the long vowel sounds in parts of connected speech when they should in fact be
short vowel sounds.
e.g. /h i: r i: z ə’te b ə l/
b) I would focus on the incorrect use of prepositions of place because this would have been
something he may have already looked at during a course
There could be a risk of fossilisation if it isn’t corrected
39
8 Paper 2 Task 1
The text for this task is reproduced below and on the opposite page. It is part of a speaking test
from a Cambridge English handbook. It is being used in the following situation:
A, B and C have just arrived in the UK and a teacher is assessing their speaking
skills as part of a placement test to ensure they are put in a General English
class at the correct level. The teacher is acting as interlocutor and is using the
task below and the associated pictures on the opposite page.
Using your knowledge of relevant testing concepts, evaluate the effectiveness of the task for
the learners in this situation. Do not refer to the source of the task in your answer.
Make a total of six points. You must include both positive and negative points.
Positive Points
• Topic ‘Cafes’ is a familiar/accessible topic
• Instructions the step-by step instructions are clear / the questions are written above the
pictures
• Direct test / integrative test of speaking skills / it tests the learners’ speaking skills and
language knowledge
• Assessment mode With students talking together, the teacher has the opportunity to focus
on assessment
• Level The task is appropriate for a wide range of levels/most levels of learners because it
is open-ended
Positive Applications
• Learner reaction The learners will feel motivated to do the test / will have faith/confidence
in the test/course (because it is testing their speaking skills)
• Content/topic The learners will have something to say / be able to relate to the content / will
be interested in the topic / will want to discuss the topic
• Learner performance The learners have a chance to demonstrate their abilities / be able to
perform to the best of their abilities
40
• Data The teacher should get a clear picture of what the learners can do / the task provides
useful data of what the learners can do
• Format/instructions The learners will know what to do in the task (even though they may
not be familiar with this test format) / the students don’t need to remember the questions
• Ideas provided The learners do not have to think of ideas / ideas and language at the same
time / they won’t do badly because they lack ideas
Negative Points
• Visuals The pictures may not be clear
• Type of interaction Each student’s performance may be affected by that of their partner /
higher level / more confident speaker may dominate the discussion / some learners may
not say much
• Aim of Task Students may not be clear what they are being assessed on. They may think
that success depends on successful completion of task set (agreeing on two suggestions)
rather than speaking skills which might affect content validity
• Assessment mode The teacher has to act as an interlocutor / assess three students at the
same time
• Language avoidance Free choice of language means that students can avoid unknown
language
• Low level/weaker learners Low level learners may not understand the lexis in the
instructions/questions
Negative Applications
• Evidence of language abilities / speaking skills The teacher may not have a full picture of
the learners’ language abilities / speaking abilities / does not generate much data
• Learner performance The learners may not show their real abilities
• Learner reaction The learners may not be motivated by the test / interested in the topic /
not have faith in the test / not have faith in the teacher / may not trust the results of the test
• Assessment of learners/data The teacher can’t fully assess all of the learners / they may
not get a full picture of each learner’s abilities
NB: The following testing terms were not accepted as they did not apply to this test:
Fresh starts / placement test / achievement test / summative test / formative test / diagnostic
test / positive / negative backwash / predictive validity / consequential validity
41
8.2 Candidate performance
Candidates scored well on Task One with the average mark achieved being 11 which is in line
with previous sessions. The majority seemed clearly confident in their understanding of what is
required in this task and how best to approach it and Examiners commented it was clear when
candidates had received appropriate centre training. There were fewer instances of candidates
relying on pre-learnt answers from previous Guideline Answers although this is still an issue
with weaker candidates. Terminology was better integrated and candidates used a good range
of relevant terms, particularly direct/integrative test, content/face validity, reliability and
subjective marking when making their points. A few candidates laid their answers out as per the
Guideline Answers despite having been strongly advised against doing this in the previous
examination report, i.e. they listed points and then listed applications separately which meant
that they lost marks because the points and applications have to be clearly linked. Some
candidates identified the key points but then lost marks because they did not include
applications or repeated them – this is the main reason why candidates continue to lose marks.
The majority of candidates read the rubric carefully and therefore centred their comments
around the fact that the test was only designed to test speaking skills and the majority of the
points in the Guideline Answers were covered in candidates’ answers. Some candidates used
testing terms to organise their answers which generally meant marks could not be awarded for
their use because they were not integrated into the points that the candidates made. Poor
organisation continues to be a problem with candidates still continuing to ignore the advice
given in previous reports to use the headings Point and Application to organise their answers
which means that they often forget to include the latter and therefore automatically lose marks.
Integrative test of listening skills (listening Test may provide a range of data for scoring
to the interlocutor and other students), and to give a full picture of the students’
speaking sub-skills (agreeing, abilities, which can help with placement into
disagreeing, interrupting, turn-taking etc), a class at the right level. It also makes it
functions (giving opinions, suggesting) more authentic and mirrors real-life
and language (cafes) interaction.
Tests a wide range of skills Test of language and skills rather than
imagination. Learners do not need to be
creative or spend time trying to find ideas.
Prompts given to assist students. The picture prompts may assist low-level
Picture clues may assist visual learners. learners who may not understand the
relevant vocabulary. This would allow them
to participate in the test and demonstrate
their abilities.
43
Possible forward wash if the Lessons could be tailored to the learners’
interlocutor/marker can make detailed needs if there is a rich picture of information
notes of their strengths and weaknesses about their strengths and weaknesses. The
to pass on to the class teacher test could be diagnostic as a placement test
if the marker also becomes their class
teacher or can pass on a detailed
descriptions of their abilities.
Interaction may mean the test favours Learners may not produce enough language
dominant speakers and disadvantages to grade if they do not have a chance to
shy speakers participate in the group or can not gain a
turn. This means they may be placed at the
wrong level and thus affects the reliability of
the scoring
Colloquial and informal language may Learners may not understand the
make the instructions unclear instructions and may not realise they can ask
eg. “All right?” instead of a formal phrase for clarification. They may not perform well
and may be placed in the wrong class.
8.3.2 The following sample answer gained over half of the marks available for this task
Task One
Positive
* The test has high content validity as it is a speaking activity to test speaking ability. This
makes it an effective test for it’s purpose.
* The teacher will be able to directly collect data on each student as it is a small group of 3 that
they are listening to.
* The test has high face validity as it looks like a speaking test. This will make the test more
effective as the students engage with it.
* It gives the students an opportunity to use a wide range of language and grammar so is
effective for the teacher to see what the students are able to do.
* The data collected will be appropriate for the purpose of deciding the correct level class for the
students.
Negative
*The test contains no fresh starts so the students have no opportunity to improve if they make
mistakes, this may make the test less effective if it makes the students less motivated.
* It is subjectively marked and as the students have just arrived they may not have a good
rapport with the teacher yet and so think the test results are unreliable.
* It has a very open question allowing students to use whatever grammar and language they
want. This means the students can avoid anything they are unsure of so it is hard for the
teacher to gauge any weaknesses.
* The topic of advertising/promoting a café is not something all students will use everyday (in
General English) so the students may feel that the test is not reflective of their needs so be less
motivated and engaged
Positive:
* The test is cheap and easy to carry out so if effective for the purpose of a placement test.
8.3.3 The following sample answer gained half of the marks available for this task
1. Speaking tests are vital parts of placement tests and especially in the context of learners
arriving in the UK where they are confronted with spoken language
2. Speaking skills test includes speaking sub-skills (agreeing, disagreeing, asking for
meaning, back channelling)
4. Clear instructions
5. Limitation of speaking time may show how quickly students can express themselves
(1.5 mins a person)
6. If students get stuck they can start talking again (fresh start)
Negative points
1. One of the pair of students might not speak, in certain cultural situations or due to
shyness or because one student is the ‘talkative’ type.
3. Business context
Low validity for students who want to attend General English class
4. Subjective marking
low face validity due to not being right or wrong answers
46
5. May choose the topic they are most familiar with (i.e. football)
47
9 Paper 2 Task 2
The purpose of the extract as a whole is to develop and practise intermediate (CEFR B1) level
learners’ reading skills.
a Identify the purpose of the exercises in the box below in relation to the purpose of the
extract as a whole.
NB
Guidelines for Ecotourists,
mentioned in Speaking 1, is given
on p.34 of the extract.
b Identify a total of six key assumptions about language learning and skills development that
are evident in the exercises Guessing meaning from context 4 and Summary
completion 5 and explain why the authors might consider these assumptions to be
important for learning and skills development. State which exercise or exercises each
assumption refers to.
The extract is from an IELTS preparation coursebook. Do not refer to the IELTS exam in
your answer.
48
5 Summary completion • To train learners in summarising
• To check understanding of key points in reading text
• To practise reading for specific information / detail / intensive
/scanning
• To focus on lexis / check learners’ understanding of the lexis (in
the text)
• To practise the lexis (in the text)
• To provide a model of a summary
• To use knowledge of sense relations / synonyms / antonyms /
lexical sets to locate information / summarise
• To focus on form / word class / parts of speech / encourage
learners to use the text/context
1 Speaking • To practise paraphrasing
• To check understanding of the reading text
• To practise reading for specific information / detail
• To check meaning / practise lexis from the previous exercise
• To highlight/provide examples of language to paraphrase the text
• Reading sub-skills (scanning / reading for detail / reading for specific information /
summarising / paraphrasing) should be focused on [Exercises 4 & 5]
Because learners may not transfer these skills from L1 / learners may not have effective
sub-skills in L1
• Learners need to be able to work out/infer the meaning of unknown lexis [Exercise 4]
Because they will not always have teacher or dictionary available / helps them to deal with
challenging texts / it mirrors how we read in L1
• Learners need to read texts in depth / process texts in detail / use bottom up
processing [Exercises 4 & 5]
Because it is a difficult skill to acquire / it is a good way of exposing learners to language
• Diagnostic testing of learners is a useful classroom activity / learners are not shown
explicitly how to use context / how to paraphrase / how to guess the meaning of
unknown words [Exercises 4 & 5]
Because it ensures class time spent on what learners need / it allows the teachers or
learners to see what they can already do
49
• Learners benefit from scaffolding/having a framework/a model [Exercise 5]
Because it gives learners confidence / allows them to progress in stages / helps them to
produce an effective model
Part (a)
The majority of candidates had clearly taken on board the advice given in the last
examination report to write down at least eight purposes over the three exercises but
unfortunately, these were frequently inaccurate because they had ignored the rubric and
the focus on reading skills. Fewer candidates also interspersed assumptions with purposes
or wasted time describing how the exercises combined with others which is clear evidence
of centre training but many still list everything they can think of which results in over-long
and unfocussed answers.
Part (b)
As in previous sessions, candidates generally struggled to identify a range of assumptions and
this was exacerbated in this session by the fact that they had not recognised the reading
purposes in part (a) and so they missed out on identifying a potential five assumptions related
to reading. In addition, a significant number of candidates misread the rubric and included
assumptions about Exercise 1 Speaking whilst others found it challenging to identify
assumptions based on two exercises. Weaker candidates often produced pre-learnt
assumptions whilst others did not explicitly state which exercise/s each assumption was
evident in but fewer did this than in last June. Overall, it is clear that weaker candidates are
not looking closely at the material or doing the exercises, e.g. if they had completed the
Summary Completion exercise, they would have realised that it is cognitively challenging and
therefore included this assumption in their answers. They might also have recognised the
importance of the focus on form. Of those candidates who managed to identify 4 or 5
assumptions, a significant number did not maximise the number of marks that they could gain,
i.e. 12 or 15, because the rationale that they provided was limited, repetitive or absent from
their answer, i.e. they did not follow the rubric and explain why the authors might consider
these assumptions to be important for language learning. The Guideline Answers in this report
and previous ones provide a good range of reasons which candidates could usefully consider.
9.3.1 The following sample answer gained a large number of marks for this task
2A
Guessing meaning from context
− Gives ss practice of using their cognitive abilities to infer meaning so as to not depend
on dictionaries too much while reading
− It checks the ss’ understanding of the vocab in the box which was found in the text
− It gives ss practice of scanning the text for specific words/information
Summary completion
− Introduces/reinforces the concept of paraphrasis, which is important in all long pieces of
discourse.
− It checks the ss’ understanding of the text more in detail
− It provides further clarification of the lexis and the structure of the text by accompanying
it with the wording of the summary
Speaking 1
− |It give ss an opportunity to manipulate the ideas they just read and rephrase them.
− It gives ss a chance to practice language just learnt, which will make it easier for the ss
to recognise it the next time they see it in a reading
B
1) Students should be trained to guess meaning from context [Guessing 4], because
1) it prevents an over reliance to dictionaries
2) it promotes autonomous learning
3) it engages them at a deep cognitive level
5) It is important to look at topics which are relevant to everyone [all exercises], because
1) ss will be more engaged/attentive
2) ss will be more motivated to notice language
3) ss will be more likely to engage with the text
53
7) It is important for ss to be able to predict the part of speech of an unknown word [summary],
because
1) it gives ss an indication of its function
2) it gives ss and indication of its meaning
3) it makes it easier to guess
54
9.3.2 The following sample answer gained just over half the marks available for
this task
2a
Guessing meaning for context 2
- to analyse the language in the reading in more detail
- to extend vocabulary connected to this context and the situation of ecotourism
- to practice inductive skills, inherent in the practice of reading.
- to provide a useful list of the terms to help students talk about the guidelines in
Speaking 1.
Summary Completion 5:
- to analyse the new language from the text in detail
- to help learners pay attention (or to draw attention) to word categories to help
understand meaning when reading.
- to practice reading in detail.
- to provide a meaning for summarising a guideline, a key skill for reading and speaking
Exercise 1
Speaking 1
- to practice summarizing information, a key reading skill
- to check comprehension of the written text
- to personalize reading skills.
2b
Six key assumptions Guessing meaning for context 4 = GMFC4
Summary completion 5 = SC5
1. Students benefit from focusing on specific meaning of key words from a text.
Because it practices their reading for specific information skills and expands their
vocabulary. (GMFC4)
4. Students benefit from having a model for a communicative task (in this case
summarizing information)
Because it provides scaffolding for them and provides a clear example of what to do
(SC5)
5. Students benefit and need to practice word categories (e.g: noun, verb)
Because this aids comprehension in written tests and makes students aware of their
language, reducing errors (SC5)
55
Examiner’s comments on sample answer
The candidate identifies eleven purposes over the three exercises, of which five are valid: to
check learners’ understanding of the lexis; to focus on form; to practise reading in detail; and
to train learners in summarising in Exercise 5 Summary completion; and to check
understanding of the reading text in Exercise 1 Speaking. The remaining points made are
inaccurate or vague: in terms of Guessing meaning from context 2, the candidate does not
mention meaning of the lexis when he writes to analyse the language in the reading text and
so no marks can be given; the aim is not to extend vocabulary of ecotourism; the purpose is
not to practise inductive skills; and it is not the purpose of the exercise to provide a useful list
of terms to help students talk about the guidelines in Speaking 1. For the third exercise in
this part of the task, the purpose is to practise paraphrasing and not summarising as the
candidate states nor is the purpose of Speaking 1 to personalise reading skills. In part (b),
the candidate identifies six assumptions which lie behind the design of the material but only
three of these could be credited. These are that learners benefit from focusing on reading
skills; it is important to focus learners on form; and learners benefit from having a model.
However, the candidate only provides fully developed rationale for this last assumption. For
his point about having a model, he only gives one reason that it provides them with a clear
example of what to do. The reason given for the benefit of a focus on reading skills could not
be credited because it expands their vocabulary is not relevant to this assumption. Of the
other three assumptions that the candidate outlines, the one which states that students
benefit from focusing on lexis in a text was not referenced to an exercise and so could not
be awarded any marks and there is no evidence in this sequence of material that learners
benefit from an inductive method of learning vocabulary or that they benefit from accuracy of
form and grammar before production. In terms of the organisation of the answer, it has the
benefit of a clear layout and use of numbers but the candidate needs to use the headings of
assumption, exercise, reason one and reason two for part (b) to ensure that he addresses
the requirements of the rubric.
9.3.3 The following sample answer obtained under half the marks available for this task
5. Summary Completion
Speaking 1
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Assumption 2 to have a written record of Target Language (Ex 4/5)
R1 They can refer to it later
R2 This is what learners expect
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10 Paper 2 Task 3
Comment on the ways in which Prediction 1 and Reading for gist 3 combine with the
exercises discussed in Task Two.
The most common points made about how the exercises combine with those in Task Two were:
• Prediction 1 introduces / personalizes the topic
• Prediction 1 encourages students to generate ideas and lexis which can be used in
Speaking 1
• Reading for gist 3 checks learners understand the text / allows them to practise
skimming/reading for gist/general understanding before they read it again in Guessing
meaning from context 4 and/or Speaking 1.
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The least common points made were:
• Prediction 1 starts with an easy/fun task
• There is a balance of collaborative and individual work over the extract / the sequence
starts and ends with speaking
• Reading for gist 3 maintains the theme/topic of the extract
• Reading for gist 3 provides the text for the sub-skills work in Guessing meaning from
context 4 / Summary completion 5
• Reading for gist 3 provides a context for guessing the meaning of the lexis in Guessing
meaning from context 4 / provides the context for the summary in Summary completion
5
• Reading for gist 3 provides a variety of skills/reading skills work / provides a focus on
reading skills which leads into speaking work.
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10.3 Sample Answers
10.3.1 The following sample answer obtained a high number of marks available for
this task
3 Prediction 1
• to generate interest in the topic of the text and the subsequent exercises.
• to activate learners’ schemata in the context of ecotourism.
• to personalise the topic of the text and subsequent exercises.
• to allow learners to notice topic-specific language that they don’t have which may arise
in Guessing meaning from context 4 and summary completion 5.
• to provide an opportunity for learners to interact before a series of individual work tasks.
• to allow learners to predict some of the content of the text.
10.3.2 The following sample answer obtained just over half the marks available for this
task
Prediction 1
− it activates students’ schemata of the topic of the reading text in the other exercises
from Task 2.
− it provides an opportunity to pre-teach vocabulary connected to the reading in the other
exercises from Task 2
− by focusing on the negative effects of tourism it prepares students for the reading about
Ecotourism
− it varies the interaction pattern, as this is a group activity and the others are individual or
pair work ones (in Task 2)
− it provides a framework of speaking task – reading – speaking task.
− it allows for the personalisation of the topic of the text students need to read for the
tasks in Task 2.
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− it varies the time spent on reading the text as here students have to read quickly and in
the other tasks they have more time
10.3.3 The following sample answer obtained very few marks available for this task
1
Tk3
prediction 1
• activates learners schmata/previous knowledge
• allows the teacher to see what they know about the topic
• acts as a lead in
Reading for gist 3
• encourages learners not to focus on unknown words
• to practice skimming skills
• presents ex4 vocabulary in context.
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11 Paper 2 Task 4
The text below is a teacher trainer’s description of a way of organising a language lesson.
a What reasons are there for using PPP as described above in ELT classrooms?
b What are the advantages of organising a language lesson in the following sequence:
production, presentation, practice?
11.1Guideline Answer
• Familiarity It has been in existence for a long time / it is a familiar approach and so has
credibility / learners expect it
• Measure of progress It allows the teacher to see what the students have learned / where
they are having problems
• Authority It can appeal to learners who see the teacher as an authority figure / like the
teacher to be in control
• Accuracy It has a clear accuracy stage which meets expectations / it ensures accuracy
before fluency
• Easier for (less experienced) teachers It makes teachers feel more confident
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• Classroom Management It is good for classroom management / younger learners / large
classes / ensuring equal participation / teacher has control over the learners
• Flexible The vehicle for the presentation part can be based on a situation, a text, visuals /
can be chosen to suit the learners’ interests
• Teaching skills It is a useful part of a teacher’s repertoire / it provides useful tools for
teachers in any lesson, e.g. drilling, highlighting form/pronunciation on the board, using
CCQs, correcting errors from speaking activities
• Teacher knowledge It trains teachers to analyse language in terms of meaning, form and
pronunciation
• Learner needs Learners can see the purpose of practice and presentation and how it
relates to their needs / it makes the need for the language focus real
• Diagnostic The production stage can be used diagnostically by the teacher / the teacher
can monitor and gather information / it tests what the learners already know/allows learners
to show what they can do
• Teacher response to needs The teacher can respond to their learners’ emerging needs
rather than on what they have chosen to teach
• Student centred It’s more student centred / learners have more input into the lesson
• Measure of progress It allows the teacher to see what the students have learned
• Known language It shows learners who think that they ‘know’ the language point that they
don’t
• Language gap It shows learners where the gaps in their knowledge are
• Revision TTT is useful to revise language already covered with the group
• Time efficient It saves time because the teacher does not waste time on teaching language
the students already know
• Mixed ability All the learners in the class can participate even if their levels are different /
the learners are at different stages of development
• Higher levels It works well at higher levels / challenges learners at higher levels
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11.2 Candidate performance
Examiners commented that the focus discriminated well between experienced and less
experienced candidates, although considering the accessibility of the topic (PPP versus TTT),
a surprising number struggled to identify a range of points and some had a very narrow view
of PPP and thought that it was synonymous with being a situational presentation. Some
candidates misread Part B and took it to be still talking about traditional PPP. They then
answered this part of the task about the advantages of the sequence of PPP rather than
focusing on the change to production in the first stage. Weaker answers contained a large
amount of vagueness and repetition, e.g. about the value of each stage (rather than looking at
the approach of PPP as a whole) or reference to learning styles. However, overall
performance was in line with previous sessions and the average number of marks achieved
was 21 although there were fewer very high scoring answers than in June 2013 when the
focus was on writing skills, perhaps an indication that candidates need to think more deeply
about why and when they use different approaches to teach language in their classrooms. It
may also have been because Part B was not focussed on how they would implement the
focus in Part A in their own teaching. Very few candidates wrote off-task and they provided full
answers, although there was a lot of repetition, particularly in terms of the scaffolding provided
by PPP. A significant number of candidates chose to answer this task first, presumably
because it counts for a large number of marks, 40. This meant that they did not run out of time
and were able to provide full answers.
The most common points identified in Part A were:
• Learners expect PPP
• Using PPP makes it easier for the teacher to plan the lesson
• It makes teachers feel more confident
• It has clear staging/scaffolding
• Learners feel secure
• It appeals to learners who like the teacher to be in control
• It has a clear accuracy stage
• It moves from receptive to productive.
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Candidates are recommended to:
read the rubric very carefully
only provide the information they are asked for about a topic, i.e. keep to the point
make as many relevant different points, up to a maximum of 20 over the two sections
use bullet points rather than an essay format as candidates are marked on the number of
points that they make rather than the depth of their answers
not to write at length about one point but to make as many different points as possible
prepare for this task by reading a methodology book which covers a range of topics, e.g.
Learning Teaching (Scrivener) or The Practice of English Language Teaching (Harmer)
allow themselves enough time for both parts of the task
refer, where appropriate, to a range of learners and contexts
consider the question (where appropriate) from the viewpoints of learners, teachers,
institutional requirements, materials, etc in order to generate a greater range of ideas.
11.3.1 The following sample answer obtained three quarters of marks available for this
task
4a
• the teacher has control over what will happen in the classroom and can therefore be
better prepared. This is especially relevant for new teachers.
• language is more easily understood when presented in a meaningful context
• PPP as described here might be expected by learners
• PPP as described here is the approach followed by numerous coursebooks.
• Learners are exposed to the target language and have a chance to practice it before
being expected to produce it
• the ‘present’ stage allows for language analysis to happen early in the lesson. This may
particularly benefit analytical learners.
• the ‘practice’ stage allows for a controlled focus on form, which encourages accuracy
among the learners.
• error correction is made easier by the ‘practice’ stage. In theory, errors corrected at this
stage should be less likely to reappear in the ‘produce’ stage.
• PPP as described here conforms to the idea of scaffolding language learning i.e.
supporting learners with new language before slowly allowing them more freedom to
manipulate the language in their own way.
• the teacher has the role of informer, which may be expected in some cultures.
• all learners are given the same information and each can take away what he/she finds
important, useful or relevant.
4b
• the language focus of the lesson is more relevant to the learners’ needs and abilities.
• it allows the teacher to see how well learners are able to use a language point before
teaching it
• it allows the teacher to adapt his/her presentation stage to take account of what learners
already know about the target language.
• the ‘practice’ stage can focus more closely on areas of the target language that learners
have made errors with.
• it can be more motivating for learners to know that the teacher is reacting to what they
are (un)able to do rather than making assumptions about their abilities.
• the teacher can use real learner language from the production stage as examples or
models in the presentation stage.
• learners are more aware of their progress between the initial production stage and the
final practice stage.
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• it encourages learners to ‘notice the gap’ between what they want to do and what they
are able to do. This ‘gap’ can then be narrowed through the presentation and practice
stages.
• mixed ability classes can be better catered for because the presentation and practice
stages can be more personalised with information gathered in the production stage.
Language is more likely to be memorable as it is, to some extent, learner-generated.
Part a
The candidate makes eight valid points with an appropriate amount of detail: it is easier for
the teacher to plan the lesson; learners expect PPP; it reflects the methodology of many
coursebooks; it moves from receptive to productive use; it focuses on accuracy; it gives
opportunities for error correction; it provides support for the learners; and learners from some
cultures expect the teacher to have the role of informer. However, she also makes three
inaccurate points, i.e. that language is more easily understood when it is presented in a
meaningful context (this is also true for other ways of presenting language); the presentation
stage allows for language analysis to happen early in the lesson which can appeal to
analytical learners (this is too general a point); and all learners are given the same
information and can take away what they find useful (this applies to all other ways of
presenting language).
Part b
Here the candidate makes seven valid points: it makes the language more relevant to the
learners (stated three times); it allows the teacher to see how well learners can use a
language point before they teach it; it therefore allows the teacher to adapt their presentation
in terms of the learners’ needs (stated twice); it can be motivating for the learners; learners are
more aware of their progress; it shows learners where the gaps in their knowledge are; and it
is useful in mixed ability classes. The answer is well expressed and clearly signposted via the
use of bullet points.
11.3.2 The following sample answer obtained half the number of marks available for this
task
• learner expectations – the PPP model is so widely used that any deviation from this can
cause learners to question the usefulness of the tasks and negatively affect their
motivation
• it is logical to introduce the new language gradually, before using it in a freer way
• the clear staging creates a feeling of progression which can be motivating for students
• by gradually building up to free production, students are likely to retain more information.
• most coursebooks use this model so it is easily teachable and more valid from the
learners perspective.
• the teacher is able to pre-teach lexical items that he or she knows from experience are
likely to cause difficulties, thus saving time.
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4b Advantages of using production, presentation, practice
• Students are able to demonstrate what they already know. This can have two functions:
a) It can be motivating when a student realises they are able to use the language
without input.
b) It allows the teacher to identify the students’ weaknesses and concentrate on these
in the presentation and practice stages of the lesson
• Teacher can identify weaker students in the group and focus on them.
• Students can see their own errors and where they need to improve making the
learning process more efficient. Students are able to take ownership of the learning.
• By identifying errors early on more class time can be spent on correction and
elimination of these errors.
• A break from the norm of PPP can be refreshing and motivating for students.
• this model mirrors the acquisition of a first language and so could be considered
more effective.
Part a
The candidate makes four valid points: PPP is widely used and learners expect it; it reflects
the methodology of many coursebooks; it has clear staging; and learners find it motivating.
However, he also includes four inaccurate or irrelevant points, i.e. that it is logical to
introduce the new language gradually (this is not necessarily true at higher levels); learners
are likely to retain more information by gradually building up to free production (this is not the
case); the repetition involved in PPP aids retention (this is also not the case); and the
teacher is able to pre-teach lexical items (this is not relevant).
Part b
Here the candidate makes six valid points: it reflects how we learn a second language more
closely; it allows the teacher to see how well learners can use a language point before they
teach it; it therefore allows the teacher to concentrate on the learners’ needs in the language
focus stage; it can be motivating for the learners (stated twice); it shows learners where the
gaps in their knowledge are; and it saves time because the teacher does not waste time on
teaching language the learners already know. The candidate makes two points which could
not be credited because they are unclear or irrelevant, i.e. that it is a top-down approach which
reinforces that the students already know (it is not clear what the candidate means here) and
the teacher can identify the weaker students in the group and focus on them (this approach
does not necessarily ensure that this will happen).
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11.3.3 The following sample answer obtained under half of the marks available for this
task
T4
a) Reasons for PPP
• Aims/goals lesson aims are achievable and clear.
• new teachers helps build confidence and understanding of the lesson stages.
• learner needs it allows less confident learners to follow the lesson clearly. ideal for lower
levels A1/A2
• Drilling activities use in the presenting/production part, which mirrors the behaviourist
approach
• Controlled practice allows the teacher to focus on accuracy instead of fluency.
• freer practice helps motivate learners when they see the progress they are making.
• stakeholders/school policy certain schools may insist on teachers using this method in
their school
• krashen i+1 it allows the teacher to build on what the learner already knows (input + 1)
b) Advantages
• Clear stages learners can follow the pace of the lesson
• Grammar accuracy learners like to learn grammar and helping them improve their
accuracy will motivate them
• Grammar learners believe this is their weakness, so it will raise motivation
• achievable targets will increase learners confidence and motivation.
• lower levels A1/A2 level students like stability, which this method gives them.
• contextualised language grammar forms/vocabulary are presented in semi authentic
texts
• freer practice Allows learners to demonstrate their whole language range which builds
up confidence.
• Recall learners are more likely to remember language chunks that they practiced.
Part a
The candidate makes six valid points: the lesson aims are clear and achievable; PPP builds
the confidence of new teachers; it has clear staging; it is useful for lower levels; it has a clear
focus on accuracy; and it is motivating for learners. However, he also makes three inaccurate
points, i.e. drilling activities mirror the behaviourist approach (this is not relevant); certain
schools may insist on teachers using this method (this point is too general); and it allows the
teacher to build on what the learner already knows (this could apply to any way of presenting
language).
Part b
The problem with this part of the candidate’s answer is that he has not read the rubric carefully
and discusses the advantages of Presentation, Practice, Production rather than Production,
Presentation, Practice and therefore only gains two marks for this part of his answer when he
states that the learners will find the approach motivating and it allows the learners to show
what they can do. None of the other points made are relevant to this part of the task.
Candidates should ensure that they read the rubric for this task very carefully.
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