The Level 2 Writing test
Two writing tasks for a real reader and purpose, marked for composition and for spelling, punctuation and grammar.
| Pearson Edexcel | 60 minutes, 36 marks: task 1 is 21, task 2 is 15 |
|---|---|
| NCFE | 70 minutes, 44 marks: 22 a task |
| Spelling, punctuation and grammar | 42% of Pearson's marks; 18 of NCFE's 44 |
| Dictionary or spellchecker | Not allowed |
Document types
Tasks ask for a document a reader would really use, such as a formal letter, an email, an article, a review, a leaflet or a formal report. Each type has its own layout: a letter has addresses, a date and a matching close; an email a subject line; a report headings and a recommendation.
What composition covers
- Clear information, ideas and opinions, with enough detail for the reader
- The right format and structure, with paragraphs and linking words
- Language and register that suit the audience and purpose
- Complex sentences used accurately
Length
Each paper suggests a word range for each task. Pearson's examiners describe the shorter task as about 200 to 250 words.
Next step
How much do spelling and punctuation count?
A lot: 42% of the marks on a Pearson Edexcel paper, and 18 of the 44 marks on an NCFE paper.