Learn: Paper 1 Section A - Explorations in Creative Reading

Welcome!Since you've already studied 'Mastering Paper 1,' we're now ready to dive deeper into Section A. Today, you'll learn how to approach unseen literature fiction texts and answer the four reading questions effectively.

What is Paper 1 Section A?In Paper 1 Section A, you'll read an unseen literature fiction text from the 20th or 21st century. You'll answer four questions, testing your ability to retrieve information, analyse language and structure, and evaluate the effectiveness of the writer's methods. This section is worth 40 marks.

Question 1: AO1 - Identifying explicit and implicit informationThis question is worth 4 marks and asks you to select information from a specific part of the text. You'll need to identify explicit (clearly stated) and implicit (implied) details. For example, if the text describes a character as 'clutching their coat tightly,' you might infer that they are cold or nervous.

Question 2: AO2 - Analysing language and structureThis question is worth 8 marks and focuses on how the writer uses language and structure to create meaning or impact. You might be asked about specific words, sentence types, or structural features like shifts in focus. Using subject terminology is key to gaining marks here.

Using Subject TerminologySubject terminology refers to the specific terms used to describe language and structural techniques. For example, 'alliteration' refers to the repetition of consonant sounds, and 'juxtaposition' highlights contrasts in ideas or images. These terms should be used accurately in your responses.

Question 3: AO2 - Analysing structureThis question is worth 8 marks and asks you to focus more closely on how the text is organised. Consider aspects like the opening, shifts in focus, paragraphing, and the ending. For example, does the text start with a description and end with dialogue? How does this affect the reader?

Question 4: AO4 - Evaluating criticallyThis question is worth 20 marks and asks you to make judgements about how effective the writer's choices are. You'll need to explain why particular methods or ideas work well, using evidence from the text to support your points.

How to Evaluate EffectivenessWhen evaluating, consider the impact of the writer's choices on the reader. For example, if the writer uses vivid imagery to describe a setting, how does this help you imagine the scene? Use phrases like 'This is effective because...' to make your evaluation clear.

Review Time!Great work! You've explored the four key questions in Paper 1 Section A. Let's review the concepts with some practice questions.