Merit Grade Descriptors

Merit descriptors Indicative characteristics

In order to achieve a merit
the learner must:
M1
 identify and apply
strategies to find
appropriate solutions
The learner’s evidence shows:
 effective judgements have been made (1.1)
 complex problems with more than one variable have
been explored (1.2)
 an effective approach to study and research has been
applied (1.3)
 other (1.4)

 relevant theories and techniques have been applied

(2.1)
 a range of methods and techniques have been
applied (2.2)
 a range of sources of information has been used (2.3)
M2  the selection of methods and techniques/sources has
 select/design and apply been justified (2.4)
appropriate  the design of methods/techniques has been justified
methods/techniques (2.5)
 complex information/data has been synthesised and
processed (2.6)
 appropriate learning methods/techniques have been
applied (2.7)
 other (2.8)

 the appropriate structure and approach has been

used (3.1)
 coherent, logical development of principles/concepts
for the intended audience (3.2)
 a range of methods of presentation have been used
M3
and technical language has been accurately used
 present and
(3.3)
communicate
 communication has taken place in familiar and
appropriate findings
unfamiliar contexts (3.4)
 the communication is appropriate for familiar and
unfamiliar audiences and appropriate media have
been used (3.5)
 other (3.6)
Distinction Grade Descriptors
Distinction descriptors
In order to achieve a
The learner’s evidence shows:
distinction the learner must:
D1
 Use critical reflection to evaluate own
work and justify valid conclusions
D2
 Take responsibility for managing and
organising activities
D3
 Demonstrate
convergent/lateral/creative thinking
Indicative characteristics
 conclusions have been arrived at
through synthesis of ideas and have
been justified (1.1)
 the validity of results has been
evaluated using defined criteria (1.2)
 self-criticism of approach has taken
place (1.3)
 realistic improvements have been
proposed against defined
characteristics for success (1.4)
 other (1.5)
 autonomy/independence has been
demonstrated (2.1)
 substantial activities, projects or
investigations have been planned,
managed and organised (2.2)
 activities have been managed the
unforeseen has been accommodated
(2.3)
 the importance of interdependence has
been recognised and achieved (2.4)
 other (2.5)
 ideas have been generated and
decisions taken (3.1)
 self-evaluation has taken place (3.2)
 convergent and lateral thinking have
been applied (3.3)
 problems have been solved (3.4)
 innovation and creative thought have
been applied (3.5)
 receptiveness to new ideas is evident
(3.6)
 effective thinking has taken place in
unfamiliar contexts (3.7)
 other (3.8)