In Paper 1, Question 2 (Directed Writing task), how many points of information do candidates need to include? Can they include information that is not in Texts B and C?

There is not an exact correlation between the number of points from the texts that the candidate uses, and the number of marks awarded. For example, a piece of writing with 10, 15 or even 20 points of information may fail to persuade the reader, and therefore not fulfil the task. Another piece of writing, with fewer points of information, may score more highly if the candidate has evaluated and analysed the points they have included, and written in such a way as to engage the reader and achieve the task as set (e.g. to persuade the reader of their point of view). This is why the mark scheme is holistic rather than points based: it is the way the candidate uses the information that matters, not the amount of information provided

Candidates should only use information found within Texts B and C. They do not need to show any knowledge of the topic outside of the information provided in Texts B and C. However, when using the information in the Texts, candidates need to analyse, evaluate and develop the ideas contained within (it is insufficient to lift the material by copying word for word from the text). Candidates will make links between the information provided in the text, use the information to engage the reader in the way required by the question: persuading or encouraging the reader to a point of view, for example.

It is essential to keep the reader and purpose of writing in mind. For example, is the candidate writing to persuade others to share their point of view? To win a competition? To raise awareness of an important issue? Any information they choose to use from the texts needs to be used in such a way as to achieve this purpose.