Preparing for Your AQA Language Paper 1 (Free Lesson)

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The AQA English Language exam is a comprehensive test of reading, comprehension, and writing skills, designed to assess a student’s ability to understand and analyze both language and structure in written texts. As the November resits approach, it is essential to understand the exam’s structure and develop effective strategies to maximize your performance. This article will cover tips and guidance based on the video by Adam, who shares detailed insights on how to approach the resit effectively.

Understanding the Exam Structure

The AQA English Language Paper 1 exam is divided into two sections. Section A assesses your ability to read and analyze a text, while Section B tests your creative writing skills. In Section A, you will encounter a single extract (about a page and a half in length) from a novel, and you will need to answer four questions about this extract. Here is a breakdown of the questions and how to approach them:

Question 1: Simple Comprehension

The first question is a straightforward comprehension question. It usually asks you to list four things about a particular element in the text. For example, the video explains how a typical question might ask for four facts about hyenas from the provided extract.

Tips for Success:

• Quickly skim the text to locate the relevant facts.

• Spend only about 2 minutes on this question.

• Double-check the lines you are required to refer to, as answering outside the given line range can result in lost marks.

Question 2: Language Analysis

Question 2 is where you will be asked to analyze the writer’s use of language. This can include examining the use of literary techniques, such as metaphors, similes, and word choices, and explaining how these techniques contribute to the overall effect of the text. Adam uses the acronym "JAM WINS" to help remember key language features:

• Juxtaposition

• Alliteration

• Metaphor

• Word choices

• Imagery

• Nouns

• Similes

Approach:

• Start by identifying key phrases in the extract that showcase interesting language techniques.

• Analyze how these techniques are used to describe the subject, focusing on why the writer made these choices.

• Plan to write two paragraphs with two to three pieces of evidence per paragraph.

Question 3: Structural Analysis

This question focuses on the structure of the text. Here, you will analyze how the writer organizes the text to create interest and engage the reader. Adam’s acronym for this question is FPPS:

• Focal Points

• Pace

• Punctuation

• Sentence Forms

In this part of the exam, you will be expected to describe how the writer’s choices in terms of structure—like changing the pace or shifting the focus—affect the reader’s experience.

Approach:

• Look for changes in pacing, such as short or long sentences, to identify moments of tension or calm.

• Analyze shifts in the narrative's focus, such as moving from one character’s perspective to another, to explain how it keeps the reader engaged.

• As with Question 2, aim for two paragraphs with two to three pieces of evidence.

Question 4: Evaluation

The final question is an evaluation task, where you will be asked to evaluate a statement about the extract, such as whether a character is presented as frightening or amusing. You need to analyze both language and structure together to assess how the writer achieves their purpose.

Approach:

• Identify whether you agree, disagree, or partially agree with the statement.

• Support your judgment with evidence from the text.

• Look for ways the writer uses both language and structure to convey meaning and create an effect.

• Aim to write three paragraphs, each supported by two to three pieces of evidence.

Time Management and Exam Strategies

Managing your time effectively is crucial to succeeding in the AQA English Language exam. Here are some key time management tips:

• Question 1: Spend only about 2 minutes, as it is a simple comprehension task.

• Question 2 & 3: Allocate around 12 minutes each for these questions. Make sure to include planning, writing, and reviewing your answers within this time.

• Question 4: This is the most time-consuming question, worth 20 marks. Spend about 25 minutes on this task, allowing yourself time to plan and develop a well-structured response.

Conclusion

The AQA English Language Paper 1 exam can seem daunting, but with careful planning and an understanding of the exam structure, you can significantly improve your chances of success. Use the acronyms "JAMWINS" for language analysis and "FPPS" for structure to help organize your thoughts and focus on the key elements the examiners are looking for. Above all, remember to manage your time wisely, allocate enough time for each question, and give yourself moments to plan your responses.

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