Making the grade - How question choice and type affect the development of grade descriptors

This paper reports on a method for the development of grade descriptors for an international Economics A-level syllabus. The syllabus assessment provi ded the opportunity to explore how different examination paper structures ( compulsory short answer written questions and longer essay type questions) and different mark schemes affected this relatively new method for developi ng grade descriptors. Quantitative analyses of candidates' marks on each qu estion on the November 1999 examination were carried out to identify the gr ade (A to E) at which candidates 'mastered' the question. Qualitative diffe rences between answers to the question from candidates achieving different grades were identified by expert judges using Kelly's Repertory Grid. These qualitative data were edited to form grade descriptors which were used in the process of grading economics examinations taken in summer 2000, and the ir usefulness was evaluated. The effects of the question choice and type on the development process are discussed.