Content should:

• be appropriate for the method of assessment;
• be consistent with and reflect the breadth of the scheme of work;
• reflect age-appropriate versions of expectations of Key Stage 4 assessments;
• be fit for purpose;
• permit reasonable adjustments; and
• avoid bias.

The level of demand should:

• be consistent:
  • across all options for tasks;
  • with other assessments (departmental and across the curriculum);
  • with previous assessments; and
  • with class work and homework learning opportunities; and
• facilitate:
  • differentiation; and
  • allocation of a range of marks to reflect knowledge and skills.

The language in assessments must:

• communicate requirements:
  • clearly;
  • concisely; and
  • using correct spelling, grammar and punctuation; and
• reflect rubrics in the scheme of work or specification.

Stimulus materials, images, diagrams and charts should:

• be clear;
• avoid ambiguity; and
• avoid bias.

Assessment presentation should take into account:

• amount of time allocated;
• number of questions;
• total marks;
• marks per question;
• clear layout;
• question numbers;
• page numbers; and
• sufficient space to record answers.

An effective mark scheme enables teachers to:

• be accurate, fair and consistent in their marking; and
• differentiate accurately and consistently between a range of attainments by pupils.

Effective mark schemes:

• ensure assessments are marked consistently and fairly;
• provide the marker with a range of possible credit-worthy responses a pupil can make appropriate to the subject; and
• set out the criteria against which marks are allocated to pupils’ responses.

When choosing language and stimulus materials, ensure that they:

• are appropriate for the age of the pupils who may sit the assessment;
• enable pupils to demonstrate their level of attainment;
• require relevant knowledge, skills and understanding;
• reflect the level and objective of the assessment;
• are clear and unambiguous (unless ambiguity forms part of the assessment); and
• are not likely to cause unnecessary offence to pupils.