Band Descriptors (1=A)

BAND DESCRIPTORS TABLE/ 25

0/0–1 No answer / Insufficient to meet the criteria for Band 8.
Band 8
2
3
4
Limited attempt to respond
• shows some limited understanding of simple/literal meaning

Band 7
5
6
7
Some evidence of simple personal response
• makes a few straightforward comments
• shows a few signs of understanding the surface meaning of the text
• makes a little reference to the text

Band 6
8
9
10
Attempts to communicate a basic personal response
• makes some relevant comments
• shows a basic understanding of surface meaning of the text
• makes a little supporting reference to the text

Band 5
11
12
13
Begins to develop a personal response
• shows some understanding of meaning
• makes a little reference to the language of the text (beginning to assume a
voice in an empathic task)
• uses some supporting textual detail

Band 4
14
15
16
Makes a reasonably developed personal response
• shows understanding of the text and some of its deeper implications
• makes some response to the way the writer uses language (using suitable
features of expression in an empathic task)
• shows some thoroughness in the use of supporting evidence from the text

Band 3
17
18
19
Makes a well-developed and detailed personal response
• shows a clear understanding of the text and some of its deeper
implications
• makes a developed response to the way the writer achieves her/his
effects (sustaining an appropriate voice in an empathic task)
• supports with careful and relevant reference to the text

Band 2
20
21
22
Sustains a perceptive and convincing personal response
• shows a clear critical understanding of the text
• responds sensitively and in detail to the way the writer achieves her/his
effects (sustaining a convincing voice in an empathic task)
• integrates much well-selected reference to the text

Band 1
23
24
25
Answers in this band have all the qualities of Band 2 work, with further
insight, sensitivity, individuality and flair. They show complete and sustained
engagement with both text and task.