The Student Room Group

GCSE English Lit: 2 marks away from a 7

Hi! Happy results day to everyone!

I got my GCSE results for AQA English Literature last week. I got a 6, but I was only 2 marks away from a 7! Do you think it would be worth getting both papers remarked (review of marking) for a chance to increase my marks?

I understand the subjective nature of marking for GCSE English Literature since it is an essay based subjects so opinions and interpretations of my work can differ between different examiners. But how likely is it if I get my papers remarked, I'll be awarded those extra 2 marks to push my grade to a 7? I understand that remark cases are unsuccessful and not guaranteed most of the times.

Also I did my exams at a private examination centre. The centre's fees for getting a paper reviewed is £100 per paper. 💀💀💀 I don't know if I can afford this but I don't want to miss out on the opportunity of knowing I have explored every option of getting the best final grade possible.

Can I seek some advice and clarification on this, please? Has anyone else had any experiences of getting their English Literature papers remarked? Are remark cases more successful for essay based subjects? Shall I go through with it?

Thank you! 😭😭😭
Original post by GardenV22
Hi! Happy results day to everyone!
I got my GCSE results for AQA English Literature last week. I got a 6, but I was only 2 marks away from a 7! Do you think it would be worth getting both papers remarked (review of marking) for a chance to increase my marks?
I understand the subjective nature of marking for GCSE English Literature since it is an essay based subjects so opinions and interpretations of my work can differ between different examiners. But how likely is it if I get my papers remarked, I'll be awarded those extra 2 marks to push my grade to a 7? I understand that remark cases are unsuccessful and not guaranteed most of the times.
Also I did my exams at a private examination centre. The centre's fees for getting a paper reviewed is £100 per paper. 💀💀💀 I don't know if I can afford this but I don't want to miss out on the opportunity of knowing I have explored every option of getting the best final grade possible.
Can I seek some advice and clarification on this, please? Has anyone else had any experiences of getting their English Literature papers remarked? Are remark cases more successful for essay based subjects? Shall I go through with it?
Thank you! 😭😭😭

Well done on your GCSEs!
I would say go for the remark because since your so close to the higher grade boundary, it is extremely unlikely your numbers can decrease to the extent where your grade goes down. Worst case scenario is your grade remains the same, but it's not likely since english is essay based so it's more flexible in terms of marks.

Also, as far as I know remarks usually cost 40 to 50 pounds, not sure why it's so expensive at your centre, and exam boards usually refund the money if the grade goes up.

I'm also getting my English language remarked because I was 2 marks off the next grade, so don't worry I'm doing it too 😁
Reply 2
Original post by HarryPotter1!
Well done on your GCSEs!
I would say go for the remark because since your so close to the higher grade boundary, it is extremely unlikely your numbers can decrease to the extent where your grade goes down. Worst case scenario is your grade remains the same, but it's not likely since english is essay based so it's more flexible in terms of marks.
Also, as far as I know remarks usually cost 40 to 50 pounds, not sure why it's so expensive at your centre, and exam boards usually refund the money if the grade goes up.
I'm also getting my English language remarked because I was 2 marks off the next grade, so don't worry I'm doing it too 😁


Thank you for your insight! The heavy costs are what's discouraging me. But you're right, it's worth it since it's only 2 marks to play with! I have put everything into consideration and will think about it within the next few days! And good luck with your remark! I hope you are successful!! 😊
(edited 2 weeks ago)
Could a remark go down by like 8 marks if I am remarking 2 papers, like how common is it for English language?
Reply 4
It's very unlikely for marks to drop down by a significant amount, at least not enough for you to drop to a lower grade. English Language should be very similar to English Literature as they are both essay based subjects! ^_^

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