9. Grading in Maths GD7 – completed
Grading decisions in Maths level 3 units, based on GD 7 (Quality)
GD criteria. The students
work or performance:
Merit – a) is structured in a
way that is generally logical
and fluent
Examples of criteria which could be applied in
L3 Science & Engineering assignments
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
Distinction – a) is structured
in a way that is consistently
logical and fluent
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
Merit – b) puts forward
arguments or ideas which are
generally unambiguous, but
which are in a minor way
limited or incomplete.
Distinction – b) puts forward
arguments or ideas which are
consistently unambiguous
and cogent.

Merit – c) taken as a whole,
demonstrates a very good
response to the demands of
the brief/assignment.
Distinction – c) taken as a
whole, demonstrates an
excellent response to the
demands of the
brief/assignment.
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




The style of presentation and the integration of
graphs and tables are appropriate in the
context of the assignment.
Standard mathematical conventions should be
used to ensure logical structure and clarity.
Graphs and tables should have a title, the
components should be clearly labelled e.g.
columns in a table should have titles, the
appropriate units should be stated, the axes of
graphs should be clearly labelled.
The general flow of any text, and its content, is
logically and fluently expressed.
Calculations should be shown in full, and
written with a logical structure, clearly showing
the process involved in arriving at the answer.
Spelling, grammar and correct use of technical
terms in that they don’t detract from the clarity
of explanations.
Absence of contradictory information, data,
calculations, answers or explanations.
Calculations should be shown in full clearly
showing the process involved in arriving at the
answer.
Clarity of expression in descriptions,
explanations, analysis, evaluation etc.
The submitted work is proportionate in length
or content to the demands of the assignment.
The quality and appropriateness of the
resources e.g. the sources of information are
academically appropriate, they are valid and
reliable.
Criteria encompassed by the other components
of tis grade descriptor.
9. Grading in Maths GD7 – completed
How will our interpretation of these GD components influence our
selection of assessment methods?
Whatever assessment method is used, it must provide the opportunity for students to
provide evidence for the grade descriptor component(s) chosen.
For example, if GD7a is chosen the expectations of the assignment must provide the
opportunity for students to demonstrate the presentation of information in a logical and
fluent manner. Questions, for example, in a test or examination, which only require an
answer to a calculation by way of an answer, would not be the best choice against which to
judge this grade descriptor component.
or, the use of GD7b would be the appropriate when the assessment required students to
maintain a standard of consistency throughout their calculations, analysis, explanations,
evaluations etc.