Learn: Paper 1 Section A - Explorations in Creative Reading

Welcome!Welcome back! You've already started mastering Paper 1, and now we're going to focus on Section A: Reading. This section tests your ability to analyse and evaluate a fiction text. By the end of this lesson, you'll feel confident tackling this part of the exam!

What is Paper 1 Section A?In Section A, you're given one unseen literature fiction extract, usually from the 20th or 21st century. You'll answer four questions that test your reading skills, including comprehension, analysis, and evaluation. This section is worth 40 marks.

Assessment ObjectivesThe questions in Section A focus on specific Assessment Objectives (AOs). These include:AO1: Identifying and interpreting explicit and implicit information and ideas.AO2: Analysing how writers use language and structure to achieve effects.AO4: Evaluating texts critically, with textual evidence to support your ideas.

Question Types in Section AThere are four questions in Section A, each assessing different skills:Q1: Identify explicit and implicit information (4 marks).Q2: Analyse language (8 marks).Q3: Analyse structure (8 marks).Q4: Evaluate critically (20 marks).

Analysing LanguageIn Question 2, you'll focus on analysing the writer's use of language. This includes individual words, phrases, and literary devices (like metaphors, similes, imagery). You'll explain their effects on the reader and the meaning they create.

Analysing StructureQuestion 3 asks you to analyse the structure of the text. This means examining how the writer organises their ideas, events, or descriptions. Look at features like focus shifts, paragraphing, beginnings, and endings to explain their effect on the reader.

Evaluating CriticallyQuestion 4 asks you to evaluate the text critically. This means making a judgement about how effectively the writer presents their ideas and achieves their purpose. Use textual references to back up your points and explain why they are effective.

Review Time!Great work! You've learned about identifying information, analysing language and structure, and evaluating critically. Now let's test your understanding with a few questions.

Congratulations!You've completed the lesson on Paper 1 Section A. You now have a solid understanding of the key concepts, question types, and skills needed to tackle this section confidently. Keep practising, and you'll do great!