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Paper 1 + 2
Exam Overview and Assessment Objectives
Both
Use the assessment objectives as a revision checklist.
Key Facts
- Paper 1 reading is 40 marks and writing is 40 marks.
- Paper 2 reading is 40 marks and writing is 40 marks.
- Short, precise quotations score higher than long copied chunks.
- Every writing task must show clear audience, purpose, and form.
- Accuracy is worth up to 16 marks across each writing question.
Topics Covered
Paper 1 Breakdown
What you need to know
- •Q1: 4 marks retrieval from fiction extract.
- •Q2: 8 marks language analysis.
- •Q3: 8 marks structure analysis.
- •Q4: 20 marks evaluation.
- •Q5: 40 marks creative writing (AO5 and AO6).
Exam Tips
- Match time to marks: longer time for Q4 and Q5.
Paper 2 Breakdown
What you need to know
- •Q1: 4 marks retrieval from Source A.
- •Q2: 8 marks summary and synthesis of both sources.
- •Q3: 12 marks language analysis of one source.
- •Q4: 16 marks comparison of viewpoints.
- •Q5: 40 marks transactional writing (AO5 and AO6).
Exam Tips
- Use both sources in Q2 and Q4 every paragraph.
Assessment Objectives
What you need to know
- •AO1: identify and interpret information and ideas.
- •AO2: analyse language, form, and structure.
- •AO4: evaluate texts critically and support opinions.
- •AO5: communicate effectively for purpose, audience, and form.
- •AO6: use accurate spelling, punctuation, and grammar.
Exam Tips
- Build every paragraph around evidence and explanation.
Timing and Planning
What you need to know
- •Plan writing tasks for 5 minutes before you start.
- •Leave 5 minutes to proofread for AO6 marks.
Exam Tips
- Use 1 minute per mark as a simple time guide.
Key Terms
AO1
Find and interpret explicit and implicit information.
AO2
Analyse language, form, and structure.
AO4
Evaluate texts and support opinions.
AO5
Communicate clearly for purpose, audience, and form.
AO6
Use accurate spelling, punctuation, and grammar.
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Common Exam Questions
Explain how to divide your time across each paper.
8 markseasyPaper 1 + 2
Model Answer
Plan briefly, then spend longer on high-mark questions and leave time to check.
What examiners want to see
- ✓Clear timings
- ✓Reference to mark allocation
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