GCSE Language Paper 1 Revision Notes

Introduction

• Focus on Language Paper 1 exam.
• Both presenters, Mr. Sallys and another tutor, provide different perspectives and tips.
• Different learning styles mean different tips will resonate with different learners.

Exam Layout

• Five Questions:
  1. First four assess reading.
  2. Fifth assesses writing.

Question 1 Tips

• Marks: 4
• Advice:
  • Start with Q1 to warm up.
  • Write a minimum of four statements.
  • Avoid one-word responses.
  • National average is 3.5 marks.

Question 2: Language Question

• Marks: 8
• Advice:
  • Write at least two PEEL paragraphs (Point, Evidence, Explanation, Link).
  • Use evidence from the beginning and middle/end of the section.
  • Language techniques to look for: Simile, Metaphor, Alliteration, Pathetic Fallacy, Hyperbole.
  • Alternate opinion focuses on: Personification, Simile, Metaphor, Alliteration, Sibilance.
  • Aim to make 8 separate points using quotes and explanations.

Question 3: Structure Question

• Marks: 8
• Advice:
  • Write two PEEL paragraphs.
  • Contrast beginning and end of the text.
  • Look for sentence types, listing, or repetition.
  • Focus on beginning and end to show understanding of full extract.
  • Mention circular structures if applicable.
  • Use the phrase "The writer focuses on... because...".

Question 4: Evaluation Question

• Marks: 20
• Advice:
  • Agree with statement and write four PEEL paragraphs.
  • Balance language and structure points without recycling from previous questions.
  • Aim to write 20 points; partial disagreement can help evaluate.
  • Write at speed to cover enough material.

Question 5: Creative/Descriptive Writing

• Marks: 50% of total paper
• Advice:
  • Choose creative writing question (story).
  • Use Story Mountain Structure:
    • Beginning: Set the scene.
    • Build-Up: Character's adventure.
    • Problem: Obstacle faced.
    • Resolution: Solving the problem.
    • Ending: Cliffhanger or unexpected ending.
  • Alternate advice:
    • Start at the crisis to engage readers quickly.
    • Focus on details and character to slow down time.

Conclusion

• Different approaches cater to different learners.
• Future video on Language Paper 2 for further advice.