‘In selecting topics for the writing tasks every effort is made to minimize factors which might disadvantage candidates from non-English-speaking backgrounds. '

'Assessment focuses on the way in which ideas are integrated into a thoughtful response to the task.’

‘Control of language (grammatical structure and expression) is an integral component of a good piece of writing. However, it is only assessed insofar as it contributes to the overall effectiveness of the response to the task and not in isolation.’

‘Candidates are not assessed on the ‘correctness’ of the ideas or attitudes they display. However pre-prepared responses and responses that do not relate to the topic will receive a low score.’