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Paper 1

Paper 1 Q4: Evaluation

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Evaluate by making a judgement and proving it with evidence.

Key Facts

  • Paper 1 Q4 is 20 marks and rewards detailed evaluation.
  • Support every point with evidence from the extract.
  • Blend language and structure to deepen analysis.
  • Aim for 4 developed paragraphs.
  • Keep the focus on the statement in the question.

Topics Covered

Judgement

What you need to know

  • Agree or disagree with the given statement.
  • Justify each point with evidence.

Exam Tips

  • Use a clear line of argument throughout.

Evidence and Analysis

What you need to know

  • Select short quotations that show the effect clearly.
  • Blend language and structure where relevant.

Exam Tips

  • Use analysis to prove your judgement.

Balanced Evaluation

What you need to know

  • Consider alternative interpretations if useful.
  • Explain why your view is stronger.

Exam Tips

  • Counterpoints work well in the final paragraph.

Conceptual Thinking

What you need to know

  • Comment on the writer's choices and impact.
  • Link to tone, atmosphere, or characterisation.

Exam Tips

  • Use "This suggests" to show inference.

Key Terms

evaluation

A judgement about how effective the writing is.

interpretation

Your explanation of meaning in the text.

tone

The writer's attitude in the text.

viewpoint

The stance taken by the writer or narrator.

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Common Exam Questions

To what extent do you agree that the writer makes the scene tense?

20 markshardPaper 1

Model Answer

Take a clear position and support it with analysis of methods and effects.

What examiners want to see

  • Clear viewpoint
  • Evidence
  • Analysis

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