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Understanding the Marking Scheme for the Leaving Cert: Tips and Strategies for Success

Updated: Mar 27, 2023

1. Introduction to the Marking Scheme

The marking scheme for the Leaving Cert is an important aspect of the exam process, as it determines how your exams are graded and what grades you will receive. Understanding the marking scheme and how it works can help you feel more confident and prepared for the exam, and it can also give you a better sense of what you need to do to succeed. In this post, we'll explore some tips and strategies for understanding the marking scheme for the Leaving Cert.



2. Familiarize Yourself with the Marking Scheme

One of the first steps in understanding the marking scheme for the Leaving Cert is to familiarize yourself with it. This means knowing what types of questions are asked on the exams and how they are graded.


The marking scheme for the Leaving Cert varies depending on the subject, but in general, exams are divided into two or three sections, with each section worth a specific number of marks. For example, an English exam may be divided into two sections, with Section A worth 50 marks and Section B worth 50 marks.


It's a good idea to ask your teacher or school administration for a copy of the marking scheme for your exams, as this will give you a better understanding of how the exams are graded.



3. Understand the Grading Criteria

In addition to understanding how the exams are divided and how many marks each section is worth, it's also important to understand the grading criteria for each exam. This means knowing what types of answers are expected and what types of answers will earn you higher marks.


For example, on an English exam, you may be expected to provide detailed and well-supported answers that demonstrate your understanding of the material. On a math exam, you may be expected to show your work and explain your solutions in order to earn higher marks.


By understanding the grading criteria for your exams, you'll know what you need to do to earn the highest marks possible.



4. Practice with Past Papers

Practicing with past papers is an important part of preparing for the Leaving Cert exams. By working through past papers, you'll get a sense of the types of questions that are asked on the exams and how to approach them. You'll also get a feel for the time pressure, which can be helpful on exam day.


In addition to helping you understand the types of questions that are asked, practicing with past papers can also help you understand the marking scheme and grading criteria for your exams. By reviewing the answers and marking schemes for past papers, you'll get a sense of what types of answers earn high marks and what you need to do to succeed on the exams.

5. Seek Help When Needed

If you're struggling to understand the marking scheme or are having difficulty preparing for the Leaving Cert exams, don't be afraid to seek help. This could mean asking your teacher for clarification, meeting with a tutor, or seeking support from school resources such as a guidance counselor. It's important to address any challenges or issues you're facing as soon as possible, rather than letting them build up and become overwhelming.

6. Conclusion

The marking scheme for the Leaving Cert is an important aspect of the exam process, as it determines how your exams are graded and what grades you will receive. To understand and succeed on the exams, it's important to familiarize yourself with the marking scheme, understand the grading criteria, practice with past papers, and seek help when needed. By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to success on the Leaving Cert exams.

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