Back to English LiteraturePractice this
Paper 1 + 2
Exam Overview and Assessment Objectives
Both
Use the assessment objectives to plan each paragraph.
Key Facts
- Use the extract as a springboard, not a limit.
- Context is rewarded when it links directly to meaning.
- Short, precise quotations are better than long ones.
- Paragraphs should show a clear argument and method analysis.
- SPaG marks apply to Shakespeare and modern text questions.
Topics Covered
Assessment Objectives
What you need to know
- •AO1: respond to texts with evidence and developed ideas.
- •AO2: analyse language, form, and structure.
- •AO3: show understanding of context where relevant.
- •AO4: accurate spelling, punctuation, and grammar.
Exam Tips
- Build each paragraph around a quotation and analysis.
Paper 1 Breakdown
What you need to know
- •Shakespeare question is 34 marks including SPaG.
- •19th-century novel question is 30 marks.
- •Both require whole-text references beyond the extract.
Exam Tips
- Use the extract first, then broaden to the whole text.
Paper 2 Breakdown
What you need to know
- •Modern text question is 34 marks including SPaG.
- •Poetry anthology comparison is 30 marks.
- •Unseen poetry is 24 marks split across two questions.
Exam Tips
- Plan comparisons quickly before writing.
Timing and Planning
What you need to know
- •Paper 1 is 1 hour 45 minutes, Paper 2 is 2 hours 15 minutes.
- •Spend longer on the highest mark questions.
Exam Tips
- Use 1 minute per mark as a guide and leave time to check.
Key Terms
AO1
Use evidence to show understanding and a clear argument.
AO2
Analyse language, form, and structure.
AO3
Use context to deepen interpretation.
AO4
Accurate spelling, punctuation, and grammar.
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Common Exam Questions
Explain how to balance context with analysis in literature essays.
8 markseasyPaper 1 + 2
Model Answer
Embed short context links inside analysis of quotes and methods.
What examiners want to see
- ✓Context linked to meaning
- ✓Focus on the text
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