Hey does anyone have advice on how long to spend on extended response questions for the 3&4 exam? i know it varies depending on whether u start front to back or back to front on the exam pages but I'm scared I'm spending too long. thanks
The exam has 120 marks, and runs for 150 mins writing time.
Thus, that would be 1.25 marks per minute
For the 10 marker 12-18 mins is a good time range to dedicate- this will give you sufficient time to write the essay, you don't want to spend too long since in the end it is only 10 marks, you still have 110 marks to obtain.
Marking criteria: there is not set criteria (here is a guide)
- Defining psychological terminology and accurate use of such terms, justifying their relevance
- Discussion of relevant psychological information, ideas, concepts, theories and/or models and the connections between them
- Analysis and evaluation of data, methods and scientific models and ability to apply scenario
- Clear, controlled, succinct expression
So how are answers marked?
Spoiler
They are marked holistically, examiners are trying to reward you there is not set points expected for a complete answer
Psychological definitions/ terminology (0.5-1 mark)
Discussion of the three concepts (separate paragraphs), in a sophisticated manner that demonstrates a high level of understanding + incorporation of scenario (7-9 marks )
Clear, controlled expression (0.5-1 mark)
Complete answers will score better than an incomplete answer
*Usually for answers scoring <5 marks acquire 1-2 marks for definitions
**Answers scoring 9-10 marks must achieve all three criteria (i.e. good use of expression, sophisticated language)
***The marks I have put is a guide, and not what VCCA actually use