Marking candidates’ examination scripts
A script is a candidate’s written response to an examination paper, so the life of a script begins in the examination room where every IB examination is conducted according to the same clearly defined procedures. At the end of an examination the Diploma Programme coordinator must collect all scripts, examination papers and other examination material. The scripts are arranged in numerical order based on each candidate’s session number, packaged securely and sent to the appropriate examiner within 24 hours. The examination papers are held securely for at least 24 hours before they can be released to teachers and candidates.
Examiners are expected to receive their full allocation of scripts within 10 days of candidates sitting the examination. Examiners have only 18 days in which to:
- mark their allocation
- send a sample of marked scripts to their team leader
- complete a report on the performance of candidates in their allocation
- submit all marks to the IBO using Examnet
- ensure that all remaining scripts are mailed to the IBO.
These tasks are extremely demanding and time-sensitive; hence schools are encouraged to send their scripts using a courier service to ensure both security and speedy delivery.
In addition to relying on a detailed markscheme, each assistant examiner is able to contact a team leader to ask for advice on marking. Each team leader in turn reports to a principal examiner with whom they raise any issues about the marking. This hierarchical structure provides moderation and support in what has been proven to be a reliable way for awarding bodies.
