Clarification details
Updated December 2019. This document has been updated in its entirety for version 3 of this standard and addresses issues that have arisen from moderation.
Demonstrating independent competence (Guidance Information 6)
Guidance Information (GI) 6 indicates that learners should have developed sufficient skills to write a response for a specific purpose independently. Assessor guidance must not compromise authenticity. Assessors may offer appropriate general guidance on aspects of writing which require further work. Assessors should not correct errors, make detailed written annotations, or provide verbal feedback identifying and commenting on individual errors in pieces of writing.
Dictionaries and electronic devices (Guidance Information 8)
Learners may use bilingual and/or monolingual English dictionaries. Monolingual dictionaries should be those designed for English language learners at level 3. Spelling and grammar checkers can also be used in word processing. Other grammar check programmes and electronic devices, such as translators and translator apps on cell phones, are not permitted because these may compromise the learner’s ability to demonstrate independent competence.
Response for a specific purpose (Guidance Information 11)
A response for a specific purpose may include a response to text, but the definition in GI11 gives a range of other possibilities, including a response to a process, e.g. learning a new skill, a response to an event, e.g. a school field trip or a Pasifika festival, or a response to new information, e.g. a news item.
Communicating the specific purpose (Performance criterion 1.1)
Learners must communicate the specific purpose of the response to achieve the standard. This can be explicit or inferred, but the purpose must be clear.
Wide range of language features and vocabulary (Criteria for Merit)
A wide range of language features and vocabulary refers to the selection of a variety of language features and vocabulary, used effectively.
Extended range of language features and vocabulary (Criteria for Excellence)
An extended range of language features and vocabulary refers to the selection of a variety of language features and vocabulary, used to communicate ideas precisely and fluently.