If you're preparing for AQA GCSE English Language Paper 1, you’ll know that the exam is split into two sections: Section A (Reading) which focuses on analysing fiction and Section B (Writing) which tests your ability to write creatively.
Neither of this sections are easy but many of my students seem to find Section B most daunting so, in this blog post, I’ll explain what you can expect from Paper 1, Section B and give you some tips to help you to approach it with confidence.
What does AQA GCSE English Language Paper 1, Section B involve?
You’ll be given a visual prompt (such as a photograph) and a written prompt (such as an opening sentence or a specific scenario). Your task will be to write either a description based on the image or a story which starts with the opening sentence or is inspired by the scenario.
This question is worth 40 marks (50% of all the marks available for Paper 1) so it's important that you keep an eye on the clock and give yourself enough time - around 45 minutes - to complete it. This is your chance to be creative...but it’s also important to demonstrate technical accuracy in your spelling, punctuation and grammar, as 16 of the 40 marks in this section are awarded for these skills.
Assessment Objectives for Section B
AO5: Communicate clearly, effectively and imaginatively, selecting and adapting tone, style and register for different forms, purposes and audiences. Organise information and ideas using structural and grammatical features to support coherence and cohesion.
AO6: Use a range of vocabulary and sentence structures for clarity, purpose and effect, with accurate spelling and punctuation.
Top Tips - Descriptive Writing
Use sensory language to describe what characters see, hear, smell, feel or taste. This will bring the scene to life and help the reader to visualise it.
For example, instead of stating "The forest was quiet," you could write, "The soft crunch of leaves underfoot was the only sound in the still, damp air.”
Figurative language, such as similes, metaphors and personification can make your writing more engaging and imaginative. “The stars twinkled in the night sky" is an effective image but you will create a more vivid description by using personification and changing it to, “The stars danced playfully in the velvet sky.”
If you'd like a reminder of some of the key figurative language techniques, check out this guide.
You don’t have to describe everything in the image. Instead, you should focus on one moment or detail and explore it in depth.
Mixing up short sentences with longer, more detailed ones can create rhythm and flow in your writing which keeps the reader engaged and helps to build tension or suspense. For example, "The clock ticked. Each tick echoed throughout the room, a constant reminder of time slipping away."
Top Tips - Narrative Writing
Before you start writing, spend a few minutes planning the beginning, middle and end of your story. Having a clear structure will help you avoid getting stuck halfway through and ensure your narrative flows smoothly.
Grab the reader’s attention from the very first sentence. For example, “The sky was a brilliant shade of red, and for a moment, he thought the world was ending.”
How can you create suspense or tension in your narrative? Could you include an internal struggle or a dramatic external event?
Instead of telling your reader what your character is like, show them by describing their actions, dialogue and thoughts.
Whether your story ends on a cliff-hanger, a twist or a resolution, make sure it leaves a lasting impression on the reader. The conclusion should tie up loose ends (unless you’re deliberately leaving things unresolved for dramatic effect).
Technical Accuracy (AO6)
Examiners will also be looking for technical accuracy in your spelling, punctuation and grammar so you should:
Proofread your work carefully to help you to spot common spelling and punctuation errors and homophones.
Use a range of punctuation marks (such as commas, semicolons, colons and exclamation marks) but be careful not to overuse them.
Keep your tenses consistent. For example, if you start writing in the past tense, stay in the past tense unless there’s a reason to change. The same applies if you start writing in the present tense.
Structure your writing into clear paragraphs, with each paragraph focusing on one idea or event.
Would you like some more help?
If you’d like more guidance on how to tackle AQA GCSE English Language Paper 1, why not download the EHS Masterclass ebook? It's packed with expert advice and step-by-step guidance to help you feel confident and prepared for your exams. Click here for your FREE sample.
About the Author
I’m a private tutor, a former secondary school English Teacher and the founder of English Home Studies. In addition to offering 1:1 tuition sessions for students from 9 - 16 years old (Year 5 - Year 11), I create digital and printable revision guides and activity packs.
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