Guide to Drafting Feedback

As you begin to get your drafts back, please take the time to read this post as it may help you to understand some of the things that are written in the comments on your script.

What do the letters, etc. mean?

WC = Word choice. I.e. I think you should reconsider the word you have used

Sp = Spelling

P = Punctuation. I.e. you have left something out OR you are using incorrect punctuation

Exp = Expression. I.e. I think the way you have phrased something sounds awkward and clumsy OR it may simply not make any sense!

SS = Sentence structure. I.e. the way you have constructed a sentence is awkward. In many cases, I make this comment because what you have written does not actually work as a stand alone sentence. There are often punctuation errors linked to your sentence structure lapses as well.

G = Grammar. These could be things like not using the correct tense, lapses in subject-verb agreement, issues with plurals, etc.

? = I am confused. If I type this anywhere in your draft it means that I am unclear on what you are trying to say.

So far, I am making similar comments on everyone's drafts.

These are based around a couple of key elements:

1. The need to proof-read! It is quite disappointing how few people are even willing to make use of the spell check and grammar function that is on Word, etc. When you submit a draft that still has red, green or purple/blue squiggly lines it tells me that you have been lazy :-(

2. I am suggesting that everyone go back to the criteria sheet (not just the front page of the task sheet) and check that you are addressing each element of the task in a balanced fashion.

3. Work on cohesion between ideas. You must be able to make links between your texts. This can be as simple as acknowledging that while the conflicts they are dealing with are different and the mediums (genres) are different, etc. there is a common element that in both cases they are talking about war/conflict and trying to influence the audience.

4. Make sure you are integrating your evidence.

5. Make sure you make good use of the word limit.

Image taken from Google images on 10/09/12