Formal Marking:
* Your teacher: This is the most common and ideal way to get your paper marked. Your teacher is familiar with the exam specifications and marking criteria and can provide you with valuable feedback.
* An examiner: If you are preparing for a specific exam board, you can contact them and request an official marking service. They will charge a fee for this service, but it will provide you with a realistic assessment of your performance.
Informal Marking:
* A tutor: A private tutor can also mark your paper and offer you personalized feedback.
* A friend or family member who is good at English: While not as comprehensive as professional marking, this can still be helpful for identifying areas for improvement.
* Online resources: Websites like Marked by Teachers and MyTutor offer marking services for a fee.
Tips for getting the most out of your marking:
* Ask for specific feedback: When requesting marking, be clear about what you want to know. For example, do you want to know your overall grade, feedback on specific questions, or suggestions for improvement?
* Use the feedback to improve: Don't just look at the grade; focus on the feedback provided and use it to identify your strengths and weaknesses.
* Practice, practice, practice: The best way to prepare for the exam is to practice writing essays and getting feedback on your work.
Remember, the goal of marking your past paper is to identify areas for improvement and build confidence before the actual exam. Choose a marking option that best suits your needs and budget.