boellWIKI

As you (have) become a sixth-former, the written assessment will look rather different from what you have been used to so far. In fact, you will find that you need to write coherent texts about complex issues.

Usually, an assessment comprises three out of these four domains:
(1) Comprehension and reproduction;
(2) Analysis and reorganisation;
(3) Evaluation and text production;
(4) Mediation.

These domains also structure the assessment, as you will often find a text as a basis for following assignments. Logically, you would first have to show that you understand what is written in the fictional or non-fictional text; second, you might be asked to analyse the text with regard to its structure and/or language (register, tone, stylistic devices, etc.); third, you could be asked to discuss or comment on certain aspects of the text, using facts from the text given as well as using the knowledge acquired during your coursework.

Once you are familiar with the different types of assignments, you will find it easy to deal with them. It will certainly help to know in advance what you are expected to do when you get a certain task. To familiarise yourself with the various task formats (so-called “Operatoren”), check the list of assignments issued by Berlin's education authority: Click here to download file.

Written assessments will be marked according to the criteria laid down by Berlin's education authority (SenBWF). Teachers will use the official assessment grid to evaluate the skills you demonstrate in your text(s). “Klausurgutachten” is the magic word, and while teachers are likely to use an online-tool to apply the criteria, you can find a downloadable / printable version below.

Language is devided into foundation (Basis/GK) and higher level (Profil/LK). Language skills usually account for 60 per cent of your mark.

☛ How to improve language and style

Content is marked according to the tasks given (cf. the 'four domains' mentioned above). Content points make up 40 per cent of your total mark. However, the criteria for content apply to both foundation and higher-level students.

Download: Bewertungsraster Klausuren in der Oberstufe (gültig ab 2016/17