GCSE English Language Paper 1 focusses on reading about and writing Fiction, so it’s your opportunity to get creative and imaginative.
The first four questions on the Language paper are the Reading questions. In a nutshell they are looking for:
- Inference and deduction
- Language techniques used by the writer
- Structural Techniques used by the writer
- Establishing and hold an argument about a given statement based on the extract
Let’s be a bit more specific!
Question 1 is testing the reading skills you have been using since KS1/2: can you find information in the text.
Question 2 is asking you to show your understanding of powerful vocabulary and language techniques that the author has used in the given extract. You need to identify these and quote them and then explain to the examiner what you think the desired impact of the writer was.
Question 3 is asking for you to show the examiner that you understand the impact of how the whole extract is written. This means you are looking for changes of focus throughout the text, significant paragraphing or notable punctuation and sentences aimed at impacting the reader.
Question 4 is checking to see if you can bring these ideas together to argue about a statement provided. You will need to use the skills from the last 3 questions to create a chronological argument about the mood suggested in the statement. You can bring anything into this – vocabulary, language features, structural features and tone.
Then Question 5 is your chance to use all of the things you did or could have talked about in the first four questions, and put them in your own. This will create a solid, imaginative piece with a great structure.
Now you know, concentrate on showing the examiner what they’re looking for in each question 🙂
Looking to buy a book to help you revise GCSE English Language? You can’t go wrong with Mr Salles Guide to 100% in English Language!
Red Bird is not affiliated in any way with Mr Salles – just a fan!
Sue
Owner of Red Bird Tutoring
Sue launched Red Bird Tutoring in 2018, combining her 20+ years experience as a teacher and school leader with her interest in coaching.
Since its launch, Red Bird has helped hundreds of learners achieve success!
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