What's the difference - and how can I fix it - between an 8/10 and a 9-10/10 for a comparative? Or a text response, for that matter. Or an AA. What strategies should I use to pick up my marks from all around 8/10 (well, AA 7/10) to 9/10?
This is a very interesting question, but also a challenging one.
You probably have realised your English teacher won't tell you what a 10/10 response is like, because that is difficult to explain. In contrast, to maths and science where its very easy to reward marks, in English it's different. I encourage to read the rubric for each essay here:
https://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/Documents/exams/english/english-crit-descriptors-w.pdfTo score a 9-10 you must: Text response
Section A: Text response
Demonstrates a
close and perceptive reading of the text, exploring
complexities of its concepts and construction
Demonstrates an understanding of the
implications of the topic, using an
appropriate strategy for dealing with it, and
exploring its complexity from the basis of the text
Develops a
cogent, controlled and well-substantiated discussion using
precise and
expressive languageSection B: Comparative text response
Demonstrates through comparison an insightful grasp of the ideas and issues, and conceptual complexity, of the texts Achieves an assured, cohesively structured piece of writing that presents a sophisticated comparison that explores the implications of the topic
Makes fluent and effective use of language
Section C: Language analysis
Shows a
perceptive understanding of the arguments presented and the points of view expressed
Demonstrate
sophisticated insight into the ways in which written and visual language is used to
persuade
Uses language fluently and effectively