How much does handwriting and vocabulary weigh in Paper 2, Question 1?

Examiners do not assess handwriting or use of vocabulary and these do not appear in the band descriptors. Instead, examiners base their judgement on the mark scheme which covers:

• candidates’ understanding of the text,
• candidates’ reference to the language and how the writer achieves effects,
• how much candidates use supporting references.

On occasion, poor handwriting and insufficient vocabulary can prevent a candidate from making their answer understood. If an examiner is not able to understand what a candidate has written, they may not be able to credit the answer appropriately.