In November 2023, we published changes to our level descriptors within (d) evaluation questions in our GCSE Religious Studies mark schemes. It was lovely that so many teachers got in touch with us to tell us how pleased they were with these changes.

We simplified language to clarify expectations at each level and improve accessibility. This included removing the ‘appraisal of evidence’ from Level 2 and Level 3 so that this skill was only included within the Level 4 criteria.

These amended mark schemes were first used in our Summer 2024 assessments, and it was great to see the impact of these changes.

What was the impact?

• More students were accessing Level 3 and Level 4.
• The mean mark on 12-mark questions has increased.
• A greater proportion of students were awarded higher marks in (d) questions. There was a greater proportion of students awarded each available mark in Level 3 and Level 4.
• Fewer students were awarded zero marks; we saw more students attempting these question types.

We were really pleased to see the impact of these amended level descriptors and are looking forward to seeing how they support your teaching going forward.

For further feedback on how these exams performed this year, please make sure you read through our examiner reports which analyse the performance of different questions. Examiner reports are available now via ResultsPlus and will be available on the relevant qualification page from 27 August.

Additionally, you can sign up to our Exam Insights events running in the Autumn term: