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[bawny34]

Hi,

I am tutoring a person for the CAE advanced exam.

Still relatively new to teaching exam English and just have a quick question about the word count in writing activities.

The word count requirement is between 220-260 words.

I am just wondering what happens if a student goes over that word count? For example I got a homework assignment from the student that went to 300 words which is obviously too much. What sort of penalty occurs in this instance in an exam situation? I have been reading some literature but can't find this answer.

Many thanks.....

[HLJHLJ]

The official line is that it won't be graded. The examiner draws a line across the page at the word limit and everything beyond that is ignored. So for example, they will lose marks for not having a suitable ending. However, unofficially, I've been told most examiners will at least skim read it.

Personally, I'm very hard on word counts when teaching exam skills. They form part of the instructions and following them is part of the test. Otherwise, they go into the exam thinking it's fine to go over the limit and then they could get a tough grader, which could cost them dearly.

[bawny34]

Thank you very much for clarifying that. It is very helpful.

Conversely, if they are below the word count, what is the implication? Is their work totally discounted or just heavily penalised?

Any feedback would be much appreciated. As I said, I am new to Exam English.

[HLJHLJ]

There is a small penalty for being under (sorry, I can't be more specific) but they will also lose marks indirectly by having less material to grade. Every word written is a chance to impress and gain an extra mark. So every word under the count is a missed opportunity.

[bawny34]

Thanks again