Learn: How to Answer Question 1 (Paper 1 Section A)

Welcome!You've already learned the basics of Paper 1 and explored Section A. Now, we'll focus on mastering Question 1. Let's build on your skills and help you confidently tackle this question!

What is Question 1?Question 1 asks you to identify four explicit details from the text. Explicit details are those clearly stated, so you don’t need to infer or guess their meaning. This question tests your ability to retrieve information directly from the text.

How to tackle Question 1Start by reading the question carefully to understand which part of the text it refers to. Then, highlight or underline specific details that directly answer the question. Make sure your answers are clear and match the wording in the text.

Key Strategies for Question 1To succeed in this question: Read the text carefully and focus on the lines specified in the question.Look for details that are clearly stated, not implied.Write your answers in full sentences, using the same wording as the text where possible.

Common Mistakes to AvoidBe careful not to include inferences or assumptions in your answers. For example, if the text says 'The sky was grey,' you should write 'The sky was grey' rather than 'It was about to rain,' which is an inference and not explicitly stated.

Practice ExampleNow, let’s try an example. Read the extract carefully and then answer Question 1.

Extract'The sun was shining brightly in the sky. Children ran across the park, laughing and chasing after a small dog. A man sitting on the bench watched them, smiling to himself as he read his book.'

Review Time!Great work! You've learned how to identify explicit details and avoid making inferences. Now let's test your skills with a few more questions.