Clarification details
Updated December 2019. This document addresses issues that have arisen from moderation.
Demonstrating independent competence (Guidance Information 5)
Guidance Information 5 indicates that learners should have developed sufficient skills to write a text for a practical 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 7)
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 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.