Paper 1: How to Answer Question 4 (AQA GCSE English Language): Revision Notes
📚 Revision Notes
Paper 1: How to Answer Question 4
What is it asking?
- this question requires you to evaluate an opinion and analyse language
- quite simply the skills from Q2 + Q3 + evaluation = Q4
Timings
| Marks | Timings |
|---|---|
| [20] | 25-30 minutes |
Structure
- the structure is very similar to one used in your English Literature exams, as you use the same evaluative skills!
- Aim to write 3-4 paragraphs, with one paragraph arguing against the statement
infoNote
Exam tip: AQA advise candidates to almost always agree with the statement, and it's easier to do so.
| Paragraph | Explanation | Sentence starters |
|---|---|---|
| 1 • agree | focusing on one point as to why you agree with the statement | To a certain extent I agree that…because… |
| 2 • agree | focusing on a new point as to why you agree with the statement | I certainly agree that… |
| 3 • disagree | considering an alternative perspective | Alternatively however, some may put forth the notion that… |
| 4 • agree | ultimately, expressing why you still agree with the statement despite prior criticism | Ultimately, the statement holds true because… |
Top tips:
- Full marks are often awarded to students who speak about more than one character / multiple elements of the question
- Construct an argument - so coming to an objective conclusion is crucial (e.g. Despite criticism, I ultimately agree with the statement because…)