Lower Results than Expected?

[appian]

Wonder if you could advise. DS sat an exam that he thought went well. He had been getting firsts in his essays throughout term. He studies history.

He felt the exam went well, and he thought that he had “nailed” 2/4 questions as they were perfect for his knowledge. He followed exam technique advice.

He was expecting a first in the paper.

He got 62. This brought down the entire grade from a first to a 2.1.

He says what he really really doesn’t understand it, and is certain he answered the questions correctly as has checked the paper again.

He cannot get a remark easily, and the paper as standard has been double marked.

He should be able to ask to see the markers comments on the paper. At least he'd know their reasoning then. That would hopefully identify if there's anything issues like part of the essay not being marked.

I'm assuming his writing is legible...?

If it's been double marked its unlikely that a remark would change it but worth looking into if he feels strongly that it was of a first standard.

What feedback has he had? If none, can he arrange to speak to his tutor about it? They may only be able to say fairly general things, but it could be helpful.

If he is dead certain his knowledge is fine, it might be he answered on too simple a level and didn't realise the question(s) were looking for something more in depth? Sometimes a strong student can leave out bits that have become obvious to them, too, and lose marks that way.

What Sarah said. The fact that he is talking about answering questions "correctly" suggests he doesn't quite understand the extent of what is expected of him for a history First. Certainly, the examiner will be looking for correct facts but also for strength and originality of argument. Time to speak to the tutor for feedback and suggestions on how to improve performance.

Also he says he nailed 2/4 questions whoch suggests he didn't nail the other 2.