Answer EITHER Question 3 OR Question 4.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme. The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. AO1: Communicate informed, personal and creative responses to literary texts, using textual references to support interpretation.
2. AO2: Analyse the language, form and structure used by writers to create meanings and effects.
3. AO3: Explore relationships and comparisons between texts, and consider texts within their social, cultural and historical contexts.
4. AO4: Use a range of vocabulary and sentence structures, with appropriate spelling and punctuation, to convey meaning clearly.
5. Level 5 (34-40 marks): Sustained, perceptive and convincing exploration of the relationship. Consistently detailed and judicious use of textual reference throughout the novella. Sophisticated analysis of Steinbeck's methods (e.g. dialogue, symbolism, characterisation, narrative perspective). Excellent understanding of social/historical context (e.g. companionship, vulnerability, 'American Dream'). Fluent, precise, and sophisticated writing.
6. Level 4 (26-33 marks): Coherent and convincing exploration of the relationship. Detailed and well-chosen textual reference. Clear analysis of Steinbeck's methods. Secure understanding of context. Clear and effective writing.
7. Level 3 (18-25 marks): Sound exploration of the relationship. Relevant textual reference. Some analysis of Steinbeck's methods. Some understanding of context. Generally clear writing.
8. Level 2 (10-17 marks): Some attempt at exploration of the relationship. Limited textual reference. Mostly descriptive, some attempt at explanation. Basic understanding of context. Limited clarity in writing.
9. Level 1 (1-9 marks): Minimal, generalised comments on the relationship. Little or no textual reference. Very limited understanding. Poor expression.