There are five skill levels. Level 1 is the least complex, and Level 5 is the most complex. At each new level, individuals need to demonstrate more competency than they do at the previous levels. For example, Level 3 builds upon the skills used at Levels 1 and 2. With the increased skill required at each level, the writing that individuals produce communicates more clearly and smoothly as they move to level 5. At the same time, errors become less frequent and less serious.
In all cases, examinees read a written prompt and then write their response. Examinees with extremely limited reading skills may be unable to produce a response that is sufficiently on topic to receive a valid Business Writing score.
| Level |
Characteristics of Responses |
1
View sample item |
- The writing is in English but is difficult to understand because of a large number of errors
- The majority of the sentence structures are incorrect
- A large number of major grammatical, mechanical, and word usage errors interfere with communication
- Rude or overly casual language, tone, and style may be inconsistent with standard business English
- No organization is evident
- An attempt is made to communicate ideas, but there is little or no development or support
|
| Level |
Characteristics of Responses |
2
View sample item |
- The writing is generally understandable
- Some correct sentence structures are used, although sentences may be simple or repetitive
- Enough correct mechanics, word usage, and grammar are used to convey an idea, although many errors may somewhat interfere with comprehension
- Rude or overly casual language, tone, and style may be inconsistent with standard business English
- Some organization is evident but with an unclear focus and few or no transitions
- The ideas presented are generally understandable but are not expanded
|
| Level |
Characteristics of Responses |
3
View sample item |
- The writing is clear with some errors
- Most of the sentences are complete, and some variety and complexity are attempted
- Few mechanical, grammatical, and word usage errors occur so that the response is adequately conveyed but may be repetitive; the spelling is generally correct
- Style and tone are generally consistent with standard business English; the writing may have somewhat casual language but does not contain slang or rude language
- Some organization is evident, but the writing may lose focus at some points; transitions are simple
- Ideas are adequately developed, but they may be limited in depth and thoroughness; supporting examples tend to be general and details are relevant, but they may be repetitive
|
| Level |
Characteristics of Responses |
4
View sample item |
- The writing is clear with almost no errors
- All sentences are complete, and they are generally varied in length and complexity
- The few mechanical, grammatical, and/or word usage errors that occur do not interfere with communication; word usage is precise and varied
- Style, tone, and language are consistent with standard business English; the writing contains no rude or overly casual language
- The writing is organized and maintains consistent focus but may lack clarity; transitions are effective, if not especially varied
- Most of the ideas are well developed with relevant supporting examples and details
|
| Level |
Characteristics of Responses |
5
View sample item |
- The writing is clear, precise, and generally free of errors
- The writing communicates in a professional, courteous manner
- Correct, complete sentences are used and are varied in length and complexity
- Few or no errors in grammar and/or mechanics occur, and any present do not interfere with communication; word usage shows considerable precision and variety
- Style, tone, and language are consistent with standard business English; the writing contains no rude or overly casual language
- The organization is smooth and maintains clear and consistent focus from beginning to end; transitions are varied and effective, creating a seamless flow of ideas
- The ideas are well developed and elaborated on with relevant supporting examples and specific details; the writing shows insight, perception, and depth
|
