Hopefully, this question will be relatively painless for you.
However, as an English tutor, I've seen too many students lose what should be easy marks on this question! Don't be one of them...
I feel like I've probably marked thousands of question 1's, and you'd be surprised how many students miss 'easy' marks at this point. Even higher-level students!
Here are some tips to make sure you scoop up 4 marks and give yourself a great start to paper 1!
Tip #1 - Include the focus word in your answer
For example, if the question is 'list four things we learn about Larry in lines 1 - 7', then each of your four points should include the word Larry. Who's Larry, anyway?!
This makes sure you're staying focused, and that you're not including anything irrelevant.
For example... 1. Larry is very chatty. 2. Larry loves cooking. 3. Larry has a pet dog. 4. Larry likes having visitors.
Tip #2 - Check the line numbers
Yes, this may seem obvious, but since this is the first question you'll likely answer, there's a chance you may be nervous. (Please don't be though, you've got this!)
If the question says 'read the source again from lines 1 to 7', then including information you learn from line 8 will NOT get you any marks at all - even if it's technically correct.
Tip #3 - Provide 4 answers
And 4 answers only. You won't get any extra marks for trying to provide more than 4 answers, but you may start to cut into precious time better spent on the other questions.
So, please, take it from an English tutor whose job it is to help students succeed, and do not waste any precious marks!
Tip #4 - Make different points
What I mean by this, is that you should avoid saying the same thing in different ways.
For example, what not to do... 1. Larry is very chatty. 2. Larry loves talking to people. 3. Larry always has something to say. 4. Larry is open.
We get the picture, Larry likes to talk. What else do you know about him though?
Tip #5 - Double check your answers
You can use implied meaning, but double check it's saying what you think it is. Also, try to avoid reading the text and then just jotting down your answers. Make sure to check the text, write your answer, then check the text again.
Then you can move on to the next answer.
Basically, go steady with this question...
Yes, English tutors and teachers understand that you might think it's easy, but don't be over-confident and lose marks straightaway. Every mark matters.
Now you're ready to read my next post on question 2 - coming soon!
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