GCSE English Language - Paper One: Reading Guide

Exam Preparation

• Bring three different color highlighter pens to efficiently extract and access information from passages.

Question 1: Understanding Command Words

Question 1a

• Command word: Give
  • Means to lift words or phrases directly from the text.
  • Example Answer: "Passenger pigeon and dodo" gets the marks.

Question 1b

• Command word: Explain
  • Requires using your own words to answer.
  • Example: "Candidates for extinction" means possible choices to be brought back to life.

Question 1c

• Command word: Give
  • Look for the relevant information and make slight inferences.
  • Example: Scientists excited by woolly mammoths’ potential to slow climate change.

Question 1d

• Command word: Identify
  • No need to reword, just pick out information.
  • Example: Retrieve DNA from mammoth remains, alter DNA of Asian elephants.

Question 1e

• Using your own words: Explain why some disagree with Project Mammoth.
  • Example points include it being a "gimmick" or distracting from biodiversity.

Question 1f - Summary Question

• Read Text B
• Use highlighters for organized note-taking.
• Group information logically.
• Avoid introductions, conclusions, or commentary.

Question 2: Text Analysis

Question 2a

• Locate synonyms for underlined words in the given text.
  • Example: "Shattered" for "broken suddenly."

Question 2b

• Explain meanings of underlined words using synonyms.
  • Contextual understanding is key.
  • Example: "Dying" bulb means "fading."

Question 2c

• Explain Natalia's experiences/feelings with examples from the text.
  • Choose specific phrases and explain their significance.

Question 2d - Writer's Effect

• Analyze language use in paragraphs.
• Choose three examples per paragraph, focus on imagery.
• Provide concise explanations of meaning and effect.

Question 3: Creative Response

• Role-play as a character (e.g., the grandfather) to answer interview questions.
• Use three highlighters to match text evidence to questions.
• Answer format: Point, Detail, Development (thought/feeling/consequence).
• Use own words and creative writing to score writing marks.

General Tips

• Use a structured approach to answering questions.
• Maintain clarity and conciseness in responses.
• Practice inference and using supporting details effectively.