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English Language

AQA GCSE English Language (8700)

The English Language GCSE consists of 2 papers that are 50% each. There is also a non examination 'Spoken Language' element that is assessed by the class teacher. This accounts for 0% of the GCSE but acts as a separate endorsement for the candidate being awarded the GCSE.  

Paper 1:

Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing and looks at how writers use narrative and descriptive techniques to engage the interest of readers. The written exam is 1 hour and 45 minutes, accounts for 80 marks and 50% of the GCSE. 

Section A: Reading

One literature fiction text

Reading– one single text 40 marks (25%)

  • 1 short form question (1 x 4 marks)
  • 2 longer form questions (2 x 8 marks)
  • 1 extended question (1 x 20 marks)

Section B: Writing

Descriptive or narrative writing

  • Writing (40 marks) (25%)
  • 1 extended writing question (24 marks for content, 16 marks for technical accuracy)

Paper 2:

Writers' Viewpoints and Perspectives and looks at how different writers present a similar topic over time. The written exam is 1 hour and 45 minutes, accounts for 80 marks and 50% of the GCSE. 
 

Section A: Reading  
One non-fiction text and one literary non-fiction text.

  • Reading (40marks) (25%)  – two linked texts
  • 1 short form question (1 x 4 marks)
  • 2 longer form questions (1 x 8, 1 x 12 marks)
  • 1 extended question (1 x 16 marks)

Section B: Writing 
writing to present a viewpoint 

  • Writing (40 marks) (25%)
  • 1 extended writing question (24 marks for content, 16 marks for technical accuracy)

Non-examination Assessment: Spoken Language 

This is set by the teacher throughout the course and is marked by the teacher. It is a separate endorsement and accounts for 0% of the GCSE. The areas assessed are: 

(AO7–AO9)

  • Presenting
  • Responding to questions and feedback
  • Use of Standard English

Topics Covered per Half Term 

 

Term  Year 10  Year 11
Autumn 1 

Paper 1, Fiction. 

  • Questions 1, 2 and 3.

Paper 1

  • Reading and writing skills revision.
Autumn 2

Paper 1, Section A

  • Question 4: Evaluation.

Paper 2

  • Reading skills revision
Spring 1

Paper 1, Section B:

  • Writing to Describe and Narrate.
 Whole Paper 2 revision.
Spring 2 

Paper 2

  • Questions 1, 2 and 3
  • Reading Non-fiction 
 Ongoing examination practice.
Summer 1 

Paper 2, Question 4:

  • Comparing non-fiction
 Ongoing examination practice.
Summer 2 

Paper 2 Section B:

  • Writing from a viewpoint
 GCSE 

 

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