Using Past Papers Effectively in English Literature - AQA

Past Papers and Mark Schemes

• Created to support exam preparation.
• Intellectual property of AQA, reproduced with permission.

Practicing Questions

• Offers tips to approach exam questions effectively.
• Focuses on structuring answers, identifying themes, and using evidence.
• Helps in identifying strengths and areas needing more practice.
• Advice prepares for the type of questions likely to be encountered.

Top Tips: Paper 1

1. Shakespeare (Section A)

• Trend: One question on the Shakespeare text studied.
• Approach:
  • Analyze extract in detail, linking it to the play as a whole.
  • Highlight evidence to support answers.
  • Connect extract to the wider play context.
  • Include relevant points for a comprehensive answer.
  • Marked for technical accuracy (spelling, punctuation, grammar with 4 available marks).

2. Pre-1914 Novel (Section B)

• Trend: One question on the Pre-1914 novel studied.
• Approach:
  • Similar to Shakespeare question with extracts provided.
  • Focus on a character or theme using provided bullet points.
  • Annotate extracts for strong evidence.
  • Identify literary techniques in quotes for higher marks.

Top Tips: Paper 2

1. Modern Prose or Drama (Section A)

• Trend: Two questions available, choose one.
• Preparation:
  • Revise themes, characters, plot, context, and key quotes.
  • Use precise quotations or paraphrase if necessary.

2. Poetry Anthology (Section B)

• Trend: Question about the poetry anthology.
• Approach:
  • Identify correct poetry cluster and question.
  • Compare one provided poem with another from the anthology.
  • Focus on language and structure to present ideas.
  • Explain techniques in detail for high marks.

3. Unseen Poetry (Section C)

• Trend: Often unfinished due to time management issues.
• Approach:
  • Allocate 40-45 minutes, adjust based on strengths.
  • Attempt both questions in Section C.
  • Reuse quotes and ideas from both poems.
  • Focus on language, structure, and theme, not context.
  • Support points with evidence and explain techniques.

Example Question

• Section C includes an unseen poem and a question about it.
• Example provided: Some Days

Revise English Literature

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