The module classifications have slightly different meanings at
Stage 1 and at
Stages 2–4.
The criteria outlined below are similar to the Module Classification Criteria
agreed for Stages 2–4.
However the mark ranges at Stage 1 have slightly different meanings.
The criteria given here are designed for modules given as part of
Honours degree programmes in Mathematics & Statistics,
but do not necessarily apply to other Stage 1 modules taught by the School.
The criteria should apply in broad terms to the candidates examined on a module, but it is
accepted that principles of natural justice should deter examiners from departing from the mark
order on rubric marks and that, on occasion, this could lead to a slight mismatch between the
given criteria and the scaled marks for a small number of candidates. Moreover these criteria are
to be applied to the written examination paper in isolation, with the same criteria applied in a
much broader way to regular coursework.
Excellent: 70–100
A thorough understanding of the syllabus at a routine level and a good understanding of a
majority of the syllabus at a deeper level. A mark in excess of 85 should only be used in
exceptional circumstances and should indicate that the candidate has conducted significant
independent study and has a good understanding of the material at a deeper level than that
presented to the student body as a whole.
Good: 60–69
At least a sound understanding of the syllabus at a routine level and a good understanding of
some of the syllabus at a deeper level. In addition, either a thorough understanding of the
syllabus at a routine level or a good understanding of a majority of the syllabus at a deeper level.
Satisfactory: 50–59
A general understanding of the syllabus, but evidence of some deficiencies in knowledge and
understanding. There should be a sound understanding of the syllabus at a routine level or a good
understanding of some of the syllabus at a deeper level.
Weak Pass: 40–49
Some understanding of the syllabus, adequate comprehension of basic facts and principles.
Borderline Fail: 35–39
Some understanding of the syllabus, comprehension of basic facts and principles in part, but not
considered adequate for the award of a Pass mark.
Fail: 0–34
Failure to meet the criteria even for a Borderline Fail.
Examiners are expected to take into account the background of the
students. Stage 3 and 4 students at a given point on the scale should
be expected to have a better grasp of basic material and greater
ability to answer routine questions than Stage 2 students. The criteria
outlined below should apply in broad terms to the candidates examined
on a module, but it is accepted that principles of natural justice
should deter examiners from departing from the mark order on rubric
marks and that, on occasion, this could lead to a slight mismatch
between the given criteria and the scaled marks for a small number of
candidates. Moreover these criteria are to be applied to the written
examination paper in isolation, with the same criteria applied in a
much broader way to regular coursework.
First Class Honours (I): 70–100
A thorough understanding of the syllabus at a routine level and a
good understanding of a majority of the syllabus at a deeper level. A
candidate awarded a first class mark is expected to have the potential
ability to conduct independent research successfully at postgraduate
level in the subject area of the module. A mark in excess of 85 should
only be used in exceptional circumstances and should indicate that the
candidate has conducted significant independent study and has a good
understanding of the material at a deeper level than that presented to
the student body as a whole.
Second Class Honours, Division 1 (II.1): 60–69
At least a sound understanding of the syllabus at a routine level
and a good understanding of some of the syllabus at a deeper level. In
addition, either a thorough understanding of the syllabus at a routine
level or a good understanding of a majority of the syllabus at a deeper
level.
Second Class Honours, Division 2 (II.2): 50–59
A general understanding of the syllabus, but evidence of some
deficiencies in knowledge and understanding. There should be a sound
understanding of the syllabus at a routine level or a good
understanding of some of the syllabus at a deeper level.
Third Class Honours (III): 40–49
Some understanding of the syllabus, adequate comprehension of basic facts and principles.
Borderline Fail: 35–39
Some understanding of the syllabus, comprehension of basic facts and principles in part, but not considered adequate for the award of a Third Class mark.
Fail: 0–34
Failure to meet the criteria even for a Borderline Fail.
First Class Honours (I): 70–100
A thorough understanding of the syllabus with evidence of critical
thought and analysis. A candidate awarded a first class classification
is expected to have the potential ability to
conduct independent research successfully at postgraduate level.
Second Class Honours, Division 1 (II.1): 60–70
A sound understanding of the syllabus. A candidate awarded a second
class (division 1)
classification is expected either to show evidence of first class
ability but in a limited range of modules or to have demonstrated
thorough understanding in a wide range of subjects, albeit short of
first class standard in many cases.
Second Class Honours, Division 2 (II.2): 50–60
A general understanding of the syllabus, but evidence of some deficiencies in knowledge and understanding.
Third Class Honours (III):40–50
Some understanding of the syllabus, adequate comprehension of basic facts and principles.
Pass Degree: 35–40
Some understanding of the syllabus, as regards basic facts of the
subject. Sufficient progress beyond Stage 1 to justify the award of a
degree, but not sufficient to meet the criteria for an Honours degree.
Fail: 0–34
Failure to meet the criteria for the award of a Pass degree.
(A failing candidate may nevertheless be eligible for a
Higher Education Diploma or Certificate.)
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