Paper 1 Question 2 Breakdown: AQA GCSE English Language
AQA GCSE English Language Natasha Tabani AQA GCSE English Language Natasha Tabani

Paper 1 Question 2 Breakdown: AQA GCSE English Language

When preparing for AQA GCSE English Language Paper 1, understanding the demands of each question is key to securing top marks. Question 2 focuses on language analysis, testing your ability to explore how a writer uses words, phrases, language features and techniques to influence the reader. It’s worth 8 marks and typically requires a short but detailed response.

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Edexcel IGCSE Poetry: Grade Boundaries + Mark Scheme
Edexcel IGCSE, Mark Scheme, Grade Boundaries Natasha Tabani Edexcel IGCSE, Mark Scheme, Grade Boundaries Natasha Tabani

Edexcel IGCSE Poetry: Grade Boundaries + Mark Scheme

Before writing your own essay, it can be helpful to go through a few different example answers that are around the specific level you’re aiming for. It’s always good to read student exemplar scripts with examiner feedback too, to get an idea for how the essay will be marked. You also need to understand the mark scheme and the grade boundaries in detail.

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Othello AQA Tragedy: How to do the Extract  Question
Othello, English Literature, Essay Writing Natasha Tabani Othello, English Literature, Essay Writing Natasha Tabani

Othello AQA Tragedy: How to do the Extract  Question

For ‘Aspects of Tragedy’ A Level (AQA, 7717 English Literature B), you have to write two separate questions on Othello: An extract or passage-based question that focuses on close reading and linguistic analysis, and a wider reading general essay question that focuses more on themes and context. This post takes you through how to do the extract question. 

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Othello AQA Tragedy Grade Boundaries Explained
Othello, William Shakespeare, English Literature Natasha Tabani Othello, William Shakespeare, English Literature Natasha Tabani

Othello AQA Tragedy Grade Boundaries Explained

Firstly, it’s important to note that grade boundaries change a bit each year - so if you want to secure a specific grade, for example, an ‘A’, then I would recommend getting to a point where your writing is consistently at least 3-4 marks into an A standard, just in case the boundaries shift a bit on the year of your specific exam. 

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Descriptive Writing Grade 9 Example: The train
Creative Writing, English Language Natasha Tabani Creative Writing, English Language Natasha Tabani

Descriptive Writing Grade 9 Example: The train

Descriptive writing is all about painting a vivid picture in the reader’s mind. For GCSE students, mastering this skill involves using sensory details, figurative language, and strong imagery to bring scenes to life. Whether describing a futuristic cityscape or an otherworldly experience, students should focus on engaging all the senses—sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste—while crafting immersive atmospheres. Effective descriptive writing should evoke emotions, transport the reader to a different place, and create a lasting impact.

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10 Futuristic Descriptive Prompts for GCSE Creative Writing
Creative Writing, English Language Natasha Tabani Creative Writing, English Language Natasha Tabani

10 Futuristic Descriptive Prompts for GCSE Creative Writing

The future has always been a source of inspiration for writers, offering limitless possibilities for creativity. Whether it's exploring advanced technology, dystopian societies, or intergalactic travel, futuristic settings allow writers to push the boundaries of their imagination. Here are ten descriptive writing prompts designed to inspire GCSE students to craft vivid and thought-provoking narratives.

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Question for AQA Jekyll + Hyde 2023
Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, Essay Writing Natasha Tabani Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, Essay Writing Natasha Tabani

Question for AQA Jekyll + Hyde 2023

In Robert Louis Stevenson's The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, the opening chapter introduces a chilling account that sets the tone for the novel's exploration of duality and human nature. In the 2023 AQA GCSE English Literature exam, students were presented with the following extract, where Mr. Enfield recounts to Mr. Utterson his unsettling encounter with Mr. Hyde.

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