The final exam is almost here! English Language Paper 2 is TOMORROW (Thursday the 6th).
Hopefully, you’ve found my other guides helpful for both literature papers and Language Paper 1.
Here’s the final (concise) guide of the set! This is how to prepare for English Language Paper 2 (AQA).
Overview of AQA Paper 2 English Language Exam
This is the second of the two language papers and is worth 80 marks, making up 50% of your GCSE English Language grade.
You have 1 hour and 45 minutes for this paper, which extends to 2 hours and 10 minutes if you get 25% extra time.
This paper focuses on non-fiction viewpoints and perspectives.
Section A: Reading
Initial Reading
Spend about 10-15 minutes reading through the sources carefully and thoroughly.
Avoid rushing; your reading ability is being tested.
Question 1: Tick 4 Boxes
Task: Tick four true statements from a selection of eight.
Time: Spend around 5 minutes, or 6 with extra time.
Tip: Focus on the specified part of the text and read carefully. Highlight where the text confirms each true statement.
Question 2: Summary of Differences/Similarities
Task: Compare a specific thing/person in both sources (2 differences or similarities).
Marks: 8
Time: Spend around 10 minutes, or 13 with extra time.
Tip: Use quotes and comment on inferences. Inferences are the meanings beneath the surface, e.g., “George’s face turned red and he raised his voice” = George was angry.
Question 3: Language
Task: Explain how the writer uses language to describe something specific.
Time: 15 minutes, or 20 with extra time.
Tip: Focus on the reader’s feelings, not the writer’s. Use quotes and zoom in on specific words.
Question 4: Compare Different Perspectives
Task: Compare the writers' perspectives, feelings, attitudes, or thoughts about a specific topic.
Time: 20 minutes, or 25 with extra time.
Tip: Discuss the writer’s feelings and analyse language, structure, and tone. Reuse quotes if relevant.
Section B: Writing
For Section B, you will be asked to write a text for a specific purpose, audience, and format (PAF). This could be:
A letter
An article
A speech
A leaflet
An essay
Key Points to Remember:
Purpose: Why are you writing? To persuade, argue, inform, or advise?
Audience: Who are you writing for? A specific person, group, or the general public?
Format: Follow the conventions of the text type. For example:
Letter: Include addresses, date, salutation, and sign-off.
Article: Use a headline, subheadings, and an engaging opening.
Speech: Address the audience directly, use rhetorical questions.
Leaflet: Include headings, bullet points, and persuasive images.
Essay: Have a clear introduction, main body, and conclusion.
Structure and Language:
Structure: Use a clear structure that suits the format. For instance, when asked to argue, a five-paragraph structure can be effective (Introduction, three main points, conclusion).
Persuasive Language: Use rhetorical devices such as:
Alliteration: For emphasis.
Direct Address: Engages the reader (e.g., “You must…”).
Facts and Statistics: Adds credibility.
Emotive Language: Evokes emotions.
Rhetorical Questions: Provokes thought.
(Some people like to use DAFOREST here.)
Punctuation: Use a wide range, including colons, semicolons, and dashes to create complex sentences and add variety.
Time Management:
Spend 45 minutes on this section, or around 56 minutes with extra time.
Final Tips:
Go back through and check your answers.
Stay calm and focused.
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