Sample Answers - Pride and Prejudice (Grades 9

Examiner's Grade

Grade 7 The examiner gave this sample answer Grade 7.
Now read the comments below to understand why this grade was given.
The examiner also provides tips on how the answer might be improved.

Comment

This answer is well written and insightful. Response to language is excellent and it may be that this candidate has been let down only by a failure to plan time more carefully. Many good points are made but some of these could have been developed further. More detailed mention of other marriages within the novel would have strengthened the argument. Crucially, this essay lacks a final drawing together of ideas that answer the question with complete conviction.

For Grades 8-9

Plan time carefully to ensure that there is a fuller conclusion summarising the main ideas.
Mention Elizabeth’s and Jane’s marriages to extend discussion to cover ideas ‘elsewhere’ in the novel.
Improve balance between specific analysis of extract and wider discussion of theme in the novel.