Learn: Mastering Paper 1

Welcome!Today we'll learn how to master Paper 1: Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing. This paper focuses on analysing unseen fiction extracts and creating descriptive or narrative writing. Let's start!

Understanding Section A: ReadingSection A is about analysing an unseen literature fiction text from the 20th or 21st century. You'll answer questions that test your ability to retrieve information, infer meaning, analyse language and structure, and evaluate the text critically.

Key Assessment ObjectivesIn Section A, you will use AO1 (find information and infer meaning), AO2 (analyse language and structure), and AO4 (evaluate critically). Each question has fixed marks: Q1 - 4 marks, Q2 - 8 marks, Q3 - 8 marks, Q4 - 20 marks.

Analysing LanguageTo answer language-focused questions, identify language methods like word choices, imagery, figurative language, and rhetorical devices. Comment on how these create effects or influence the reader. For example, alliteration can make a phrase more memorable or draw attention to specific ideas.

Analysing StructureStructure questions focus on how the text is organised. Look for features like paragraphing, shifts in focus, beginnings and endings, and narrative viewpoint. Explain how these choices shape the reader's understanding or emotions.

Evaluating TextsWhen evaluating, make a critical judgement about how effectively the writer conveys ideas. Support your opinion with evidence from the text, and explain why the methods used are successful or unsuccessful.

Section B: WritingSection B requires you to produce one extended piece of descriptive or narrative writing. You will be assessed on AO5 (organisation, tone, style, creativity) and AO6 (vocabulary, sentence structures, technical accuracy).

Planning Your WritingStart by identifying the audience, purpose, and form of your task. Plan your ideas before writing, ensuring clear structure with engaging openings, coherent paragraphs, and effective endings.

Review Time!Great work! You've learned about Paper 1's structure, assessment objectives, and techniques for reading and writing tasks. Now let's test your understanding with a few review questions.