Paper 1 Overview (AQA GCSE English Language): Revision Notes
📚 Revision Notes
Paper 1 Overview
This paper, titled "Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing," emphasises understanding how writers use language and structure to create meaning. Keep this in mind as you answer questions.
When reading, focus on the writer's language and structural choices. In your own writing, consider how your vocabulary, syntax, punctuation, and structure create meaning.
infoNote
To prepare, read as many novels and short stories as possible and focus on learning new words.
Key timings:
| Total marks | Total time allowed |
|---|---|
| 80 | 1 hour 45 minutes |
| Questions | Timing | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Q1 | 5 minutes | Multiple-choice comprehension : 4 marks |
| Q2 | 12–15 minutes | How does the writer's use of language… 8 marks |
| Q3 | 12–15 minutes | How does the writer structure… 8 marks |
| Q4 | 25–30 minutes | To what extent do you agree? 20 marks |
| Q5 | 35–40 minutes | Descriptive/Narrative Writing 40 marks |
| TOTAL | 1 hour 45 minutes | 80 marks |
Q1 has changed: It is now a multiple-choice question testing your basic understanding of the text.
- Read the question carefully — answers may be very similar.
- Eliminate wrong options before choosing your answer.
- Don't spend too long — it's only worth 4 marks.