Final Tips for the May 13th AQA English Literature Paper 1 Exam

Exam Structure

• Sections:
  • Shakespeare
  • 19th century novel
• Time Allocation:
  • 55 minutes on the Shakespeare question, plus 5 minutes for checking spelling, punctuation, and grammar (worth 4 marks)
  • 50 minutes on the 19th century novel question

General Advice

• Approach:
  • Think about the question in relation to the whole text.
  • Use both the extract and the wider text in your answers to demonstrate understanding.
  • High-quality answers often start by addressing the main theme using the entire text.

Example Analysis: Macbeth

• Question: How are the witches presented as powerful?
  • Extract Focus: Presents the witches as able to predict/control the future (e.g., knowing where to meet Macbeth).
  • Whole Text Focus:
    • Witches seem powerful initially but their influence diminishes throughout the play.
    • They appear less frequently as the play progresses.
  • Shakespeare’s Message: The supernatural power is illusory; explores the theme of appearances vs. reality.
• Point: Write about both the extract and the whole text to avoid losing marks.

Example Analysis: A Christmas Carol

• Question: Is Scrooge a likeable character?
  • Extract Focus: Scrooge is not likeable due to his actions (e.g., reluctance to give to charity).
  • Whole Text Focus:
    • Scrooge’s character evolves, showcasing the capacity for change and inherent goodness.
    • His transformation might make him more likeable compared to consistently good characters.

Importance of Extract Position

• Thoughtful Selection:
  • AQA selects extracts deliberately, considering the broader context.
• Exam Report Insights (2017):
  • High-performing students discuss the extract’s placement within the text and character progression.
• Approach:
  • Consider what happens before and after the extract.
  • Use structural theories or simple structural analysis.

Detailed Example: Macbeth

• Act 1, Scene 3:
  • Witches tell Macbeth he will be Thane of Cawdor.
  • Ross confirms this prophecy shortly afterward, astonishing Macbeth.
• Dramatic Irony:
  • Audience already knows about Macbeth's promotion from Act 1, Scene 2.
  • Undermines the witches' perceived power, revealing it as a chain of human actions.
• Repetition in the Play:
  • Act 4, Scene 1: Witches warn Macbeth about Macduff.
  • Audience already aware of Macduff’s actions from the preceding scene.

Example: A Christmas Carol

• Structural Juxtaposition:
  • Contrast between joyful scenes (e.g., Fred’s party) and frightening moments (e.g., ignorance and want).

Additional Resources

• Videos and guides available for deeper exam preparation.
• Encouraged to explore videos on each Shakespeare play and 19th century novel.

Conclusion

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