Guidance

Geography: grade descriptors for GCSEs graded 9 to 1

Updated 6 September 2017

Applies to England

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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/grade-descriptors-for-gcses-graded-9-to-1/grade-descriptors-for-gcses-graded-9-to-1-geography

1. Grade 8

1.1 To achieve grade 8 candidates will be able to:

  • demonstrate relevant and comprehensive knowledge, understanding and application of geographical information and issues
  • demonstrate perceptive understanding of complex interactions and interrelationships between people and the environment and between geographical phenomena
  • construct sustained and convincing arguments to draw well-evidenced conclusions
  • use and evaluate a wide range of geographical skills and techniques effectively

2. Grade 5

2.1 To achieve grade 5 candidates will be able to:

  • demonstrate mostly accurate and appropriate knowledge, understanding and application of geographical information and issues
  • demonstrate clear understanding of interactions and interrelationships between people and the environment and between geographical phenomena
  • construct coherent arguments to draw conclusions supported by evidence
  • use a range of geographical skills and techniques accurately, showing understanding of their purpose

3. Grade 2

3.1 To achieve grade 2 candidates will be able to:

  • demonstrate limited knowledge, understanding and application of geographical information and issues
  • demonstrate basic understanding of aspects of interactions and interrelationships between people and the environment and between geographical phenomena
  • make straightforward comments with some reference to evidence
  • use some basic geographical skills and techniques with limited accuracy
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