GCSE English Language Tutor
Overview of the AQA English Language Exam
- Paper 1: Explorations in Creative Reading and WritingDuration: 1 hour 45 minutes
Total marks: 80Section A: Reading (40 marks)The focus on comprehension and analysis using one fiction extract (19th, 20th or 21st century). Questions include:- List four things
- Language analysis
- Structure analysis
- Evaluation question
Section B: Writing (40 marks)A creative writing task (narrative or description) is assessed for:- Content and organisation
- Technical accuracy
Paper 2: Writers’ Viewpoints and Perspectives
Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
Total marks: 80
Total marks: 80
Section A: Reading (40 marks)
The focus on comparison and analysis, using wo non-fiction texts from different time periods. Questions include:
• Summary
• Language analysis
• Comparison
Section B: Writing (40 marks)
Persuasive or argumentative writing is examined by way of a:
• Speech
• Article
• Letter
• Leaflet
Key Writing Considerations (Language)
- Use clear paragraphing and structure
- Adapt tone, form and audience
- Use a range of sentence types
- Include ambitious vocabulary
- Use accurate spelling and punctuation
- Apply persuasive or narrative techniques effectively
What Students Usually Struggle With
Not answering the question directly
Students often write everything they know about a text instead of focusing on the question. Improve by:
- • Underlining key words in the question.
- • Referring back to the question in every paragraph.
- • Using phrases like: “This suggests…” or “This shows…”
Lack of language analysis
Students often identify techniques but do not explain their effect.
Weak example: “The writer uses a metaphor.”
Improved: “The metaphor suggests the character is trapped, creating a sense of helplessness for the reader.”
Forgetting structure in writing tasks
In creative and persuasive writing, responses can become disorganised. Improve by:
- • Planning before writing
- • Using clear paragraphs
- • Using subheadings (for articles/leaflets)
- • Building ideas logically
Not varying sentence structure
Repetitive sentences can reduce marks for speaking, grammar and vocabulary. Improve by:
- • Mixing short and long sentences
- • Using questions for impact
- • Starting sentences in different ways
Weak time management
Some students spend too long on Section A and rush Section B. Improve by:
- Practising timed papers
- Sticking to recommended timings:
- Section A: ~45 minutes
Section B: ~45 minutes
How Lessons Improve These Skills
We achieve this by:
- Analysing extracts
- Planning answers
- Vocabulary
- Sentence variety
- Examiner techniques
Revision Strategies
There is focus on:
- Planning
- Timed practice
- Self assessment
- Feedback
- Model answers