Question 3 Breakdown + Examples: AQA GCSE English Language Paper 1

At first, it seems like Question 3 on AQA GCSE English Language Paper 1 is quite difficult - because you need to understand how to analyse structural features. However, if you break it down, it actually ends up being very similar to Question 2 on Paper 1.

In this post, we will give you a breakdown of Question 3 from the AQA GCSE English Language Paper 1, and some example student answers. If you’re looking for more support, click the ‘Learn More’ button below to view our complete AQA GCSE English Language Papers 1 and 2 Teaching + Revision pack:

Steps to Answering Question 3

Question 3 asks you to analyse the structure of the text: you have to think about how the writer organises ideas, events, and settings to interest the reader. You’ll need to explain how the writer’s choices affect the reader and contribute to the overall impact of the text.

This is worth 8 marks, so aim to write 2–3 detailed paragraphs in your response.

1. Read the Question Carefully
   Look for the focus of the question—what specific part of the text are you being asked to analyse?

2. Identify Key Structural Features
   Look for elements like:

• Openings: How does the text start? Does it introduce a character, setting, or mystery?

• Shifts in focus: How does the writer move the reader's attention from one thing to another?

• Paragraph lengths and pacing: Are there short, dramatic sentences or longer, descriptive ones?

• Build-up and resolution: How does tension rise and fall?

• Tension, Punctuation, Cyclical Structures and other features are also important - be sure to learn a big list of features and make sure you can confidently analyse them and their effects.

3. Explain the Effect on the Reader
   Discuss how these structural choices engage the reader, for instance, they may create tension, or build interest, suspense or fear.

4. Use Evidence and Analysis
   Provide specific examples from the text, and analyse them in detail.

View a past paper here: Nov 2021 Past Papers + Mark Scheme: AQA GCSE English Language Paper 1

Mid-Grade Example Paragraph

Question: How does the writer structure the text to build suspense?

The writer begins the extract with a slow and detailed description of the setting, focusing on the stillness of the forest. For example, the writer describes, “The trees stood silent, their branches unmoving under a heavy sky.” This creates a calm but eerie atmosphere, making the reader feel uneasy and expectant of something unsettling. As the extract progresses, the focus shifts to a mysterious figure moving through the forest. The short sentences in this section, such as “A branch snapped. She froze,” quicken the pace and heighten the suspense, as the reader is left wondering who or what is approaching. This structural shift from calm to tension keeps the reader engaged and builds a sense of anticipation.

High-Grade Example Paragraph

Question: How does the writer structure the text to build suspense?

The writer carefully crafts suspense through a gradual build-up of tension, starting with a still and ominous description of the forest. The opening line, “The trees loomed overhead, casting shadows that seemed to shift with every breath of wind,” immediately immerses the reader in an unsettling atmosphere, creating a sense of foreboding. The initial focus on the environment isolates the character, making her vulnerability clear. As the extract progresses, the focus shifts subtly from the setting to the character’s increasing anxiety, marked by short, fragmented sentences such as, “A branch snapped. Her breath caught. Silence.” This fragmented structure mirrors her panic and forces the reader to share her unease. The tension culminates with the writer delaying the reveal of the figure’s identity, using phrases like “a shape moved in the darkness” to maintain ambiguity. This deliberate withholding of information keeps the reader on edge, fully immersed in the character’s fear.

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This bundle includes:

Writers' Viewpoints and Perspectives

• Section A Breakdown (Analysis of Perspectives)

• Section B Breakdown (Nonfiction Writing)

• How to Write Comparative Analysis + Summaries

• Planning Support for Persuasive + Informative Writing

• Example Student Responses, L5-L9

• Example Full Mark Answers by a Tutor

• Practice Papers Written by an AQA Examiner

• Nonfiction Writing Practice Questions

• Grade Boundaries Explained

• Mark Scheme Breakdown

• BONUS MATERIAL: How to write great speeches, letters, diary entries + articles

Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing

• Section A Breakdown (Creative Reading)

• Section B Breakdown (Creative Writing)

• How to Analyse Language Features + Structural Devices

• Planning Support for Creative Writing

• Example Student Responses, L5-L9

• Example Full Mark Answers by a Tutor

• Practice Papers Written by an AQA Examiner

• Creative Writing Practice Questions

• Grade Boundaries Explained

• Mark Scheme Breakdown

• BONUS MATERIAL: Reading Support + Recommended Short Stories