GCSE · Chapter 12
Mock exam: Paper 1 (reading fiction and creative writing)
By the end of this chapter you will be able to
- I can plan my time across the whole paper, and stop to move on when needed.
- I can answer Question 1 by listing four correct details.
- I can answer Questions 2 and 3 with point, evidence and effect, and structural analysis.
- I can answer Question 4 with a balanced judgement and evidence from the whole text.
- I can write a descriptive or narrative piece with a clear shape, and proof-read it.
- I can mark my own paper and set a next step.
You should already know
- Chapters 1 and 2: reading fiction
- Chapters 5, 6 and 10 to 11: writing and grammar
Where this leads
- Mock exam Paper 2 (Chapter 13)
GCSE English Language. Content follows the GCSE (9-1) subject content for England (Edexcel and AQA). Content references: Work through a full Paper 1 with reading and writing tasks under timed conditions (AO1 to AO6), Plan and manage time across the five questions, with suggested timings (check board), Mark a response against a marking guide, using levels and the "what a good answer includes" list, Identify next steps from a self-marked paper, Use retrieval, language, structure, evaluation and writing skills from Chapters 1 to 11 together.
Exercise P Do you remember?
1
FWhat are the three parts of a point, evidence and effect paragraph? Write them in order, separated by commas.
point, evidence, effect
Method. The three parts come in this order.
- Recall the order. Point first, then evidence, then effect.point, evidence, effect
- Write the answer. point, evidence, effect
Check. The order is point, evidence, effect. ✓
2
FWhat is a simile? Write the answer in one short phrase.
a comparison using like or as
Method. A simile uses like or as.
- Think about the signal. Like and as signal a simile.like or as
- Write it as a phrase. A comparison using like or as is a simile.a comparison using like or as
- Write the answer. a comparison using like or as
Check. Like a simile. ✓
3
FIn which paragraph of a fiction extract would you expect the setting to be introduced? Write one word: beginning, middle or end.
beginning
Method. Writers set the scene at the start.
- Think about the order. A setting is usually given first.first
- Choose the word. The setting is introduced at the beginning.beginning
- Write the answer. beginning
Check. Settings open a story. ✓
4
FWhich punctuation mark ends a question? Write the mark only.
?
Method. A question ends with a question mark.
- Think about a question. A question asks for an answer.asks for an answer
- Name the mark. The question mark ends it.?
- Write the answer. ?
Check. A question mark. ✓
5
FWrite one word that means the same as the word "gently". Give a synonym.
softly
Method. A synonym has nearly the same meaning.
- Think about the meaning. Gently means with care or softness.softness
- Choose a synonym. Softly has nearly the same meaning.softly
- Write the answer. softly
Check. Softly means much the same as gently. ✓
12.1
Timing and reading the paper
Video lesson: Timing and reading the paperComing soon
Context. This mock paper follows the shape of Paper 1: one fiction extract, four reading questions and one writing task. Before you start, read the whole extract once, then plan your time. Spend most of your time on the 40-mark writing task, but do not skip the reading.
Text: The bakery before dawn (original fiction extract, six paragraphs)
1The bakery was the only light on Fenwick Street before dawn. Through the steamed-up window, Joe could see the trays of loaves cooling on the racks, each one dusted with flour like a sleeping animal under snow.
2He had been working nights for three weeks now. His hands smelled of yeast and salt, and his back ached in a way that no amount of stretching would fix. Still, he liked the quiet. Nobody asked him questions at four in the morning.
3At ten past four the door chimed. A woman stood on the step, her coat wet at the shoulders and a child's drawing folded in her hand. She did not come in. She looked past Joe at the ovens, as if she were searching for someone she had lost.
4"I used to work here," she said at last. "My mother baked the rye bread on Sundays. The recipe is in a tin under the counter, I think." Joe thought of the tin. He had never opened it, and he had never been told what was inside.
5He went to the back room and found it wedged behind the flour sacks. The lid was stiff with age. When he prised it open, a single slip of paper slid out, written in faded blue ink: Joe, if you find this, the bread is yours to keep.
6When he came back, the step was empty. The drawing had been left on the counter, and beneath it a cup of tea had gone cold. Joe sat down slowly and read the note again. Outside, the first bus of the morning hissed to a stop.
| Question | Marks | Suggested time (check board) |
|---|---|---|
| Q1 list four things (reading and retrieval) | 4 | about 5 minutes |
| Q2 how language shows feeling | 8 | about 12 minutes |
| Q3 how the text is structured | 8 | about 12 minutes |
| Q4 to what extent do you agree | 20 | about 25 minutes |
| Q5 creative writing (description or narrative) | 40 | about 45 minutes, plus planning and proof-reading |
Key ideas
- Read the extract once for the overall sense, then answer the questions.
- Use the suggested time for each question, and move on if you are stuck.
- Leave about five minutes at the end of the writing task to proof-read.
Worked example 12.1.1
How long is the suggested time for Question 5 in total, including planning and proof-reading? Give roughly how many minutes.
Method. Look at the timing table for Question 5.
- Find the row. Question 5 is the last row of the timing table.Question 5
- Read the time. The suggested time is about 45 minutes, plus planning and proof-reading.about 45 minutes
- Give the answer. The writing task takes about 45 minutes.about 45 minutes
- Write the answer. about 45 minutes
Check. The timing matches the table. ✓
Worked example 12.1.2
What should you do first in the exam? Choose one: read the extract once for the overall sense, write the story at once or count the marks and stop.
Method. Test each choice against the text.
- Read what the question asks for. Decide what the sentence or the text needs.
- Test the choice. The first reading gives the sense that the questions depend on.read the extract once for the overall sense fits
- Reject the other choices. Writing at once and counting marks do not give you the sense of the extract.write the story at once and count the marks and stop do not fit
- Write the answer. read the extract once for the overall sense
Check. The choice fits the text. ✓
Worked example 12.1.3
Which question is worth the most marks? Write the number of the question.
Method. Compare the marks in the timing table.
- Read the marks. Question 5 is worth 40 marks, the most in the paper.40 marks
- Compare. The other questions are worth 4, 8, 8 and 20 marks.4, 8, 8 and 20
- Give the number. The most marks are for Question 5.5
- Write the answer. 5
Check. Question 5 has the most marks. ✓
Exercise 12A Practice: timing and reading
1
FHow many marks is Question 4 worth? Write the number.
20
Method. Read the table.
- Find the row. Question 4 is worth 20 marks.20
- Give the number. Question 4 is 20 marks.20
- Write the answer. 20
Check. Q4 is 20 marks. ✓
2
FHow many paragraphs does the extract have? Write the number.
6
Method. Count the paragraphs.
- Count. The extract has six paragraphs.six paragraphs
- Give the number. The extract has six paragraphs.6
- Write the answer. 6
Check. Six paragraphs. ✓
3
PSWhich question has the shortest suggested time? Write the number.
1
Method. Compare the times in the table.
- Compare. Question 1 has about 5 minutes, the shortest.about 5 minutes
- Give the number. Question 1 has the shortest time.1
- Write the answer. 1
Check. Q1 is the shortest. ✓
4
RWhat is the first thing to do with the extract? Write one word: read or write.
read
Method. Think about the order.
- Think about the order. You must understand the extract before answering.understand
- Name the first step. Read it first.read
- Write the answer. read
Check. Read first. ✓
5
PSWhich phrase from the timing table is about proof-reading? Write one word: planning or proof-reading.
proof-reading
Method. Look at the Question 5 row.
- Look at the row. The Question 5 row mentions planning and proof-reading.proof-reading
- Choose. Proof-reading is the phrase.proof-reading
- Write the answer. proof-reading
Check. It is in the Question 5 row. ✓
6
RGive one reason why you should read the extract before answering Question 1. One sentence.
Accept any answer that explains that the reading gives the overall sense needed to find details. For example: Question 1 asks for details, and you need to know the story to find them.
Method. Think about what the question needs.
- Question 1. It asks for details.details
- The reason. The story gives the context.context
- Write the answer. Question 1 asks for details, and you need to know the story to find them.
Check. The reason is clear. ✓
12.2
Questions 1 and 2: retrieval and language
Video lesson: Questions 1 and 2: retrieval and languageComing soon
Context. Question 1 (4 marks): list four things from the extract. Question 2 (8 marks): How does the writer use language to show how the woman feels? Write point, evidence and effect, and zoom in on one or two words.
Key ideas
- Question 1: four correct, different details, from the place the question names.
- Question 2: at least two features, each with a quotation and an effect on the reader.
- Explain effect with the word or phrase, not with a general statement.
Worked example 12.2.1
Question 1: Give one thing Joe notices about the woman in paragraph 3. Quote the words.
Method. Find what Joe sees in the woman.
- Find the detail. Paragraph 3 describes the woman's coat and a drawing.a child's drawing folded in her hand
- Check it is about her. The drawing is in her hand, so it is her detail.in her hand
- Give the detail. The detail is the drawing folded in her hand.a child's drawing folded in her hand
- Write the answer. a child's drawing folded in her hand
Check. The detail is quoted exactly. ✓
Worked example 12.2.2
Question 2: Identify the technique in "like a sleeping animal under snow". Write one word.
Method. Look for like.
- Find the signal. Like compares the loaves to an animal.like a sleeping animal
- Name the technique. A comparison with like is a simile.simile
- Write the answer. simile
Check. Like makes a simile. ✓
Worked example 12.2.3
Question 2: Explain the effect of "as if she were searching for someone she had lost." Give one effect.
Method. Explain the effect on the reader.
- Find the phrase. The phrase compares her look to a search.as if she were searching
- Explain the effect. Searching for someone lost suggests loss and hope.loss and hope
- Give the effect. It suggests the woman is lost and hopeful.it suggests the woman is lost and hopeful
- Write the answer. it suggests the woman is lost and hopeful
Check. The effect is linked to the phrase. ✓
Exercise 12B Practice: Questions 1 and 2
1
FQuestion 1 (4 marks): Give four things that Joe does or notices in paragraphs 1 to 3.
Accept any answer that gives four different, correct details from paragraphs 1 to 3 (for example the light, the loaves, the smell, the ache, the woman, her wet coat, the drawing, the ovens). For example: the bakery is the only light; the loaves are cooling; his hands smell of yeast and salt; his back aches.
Method. Find four different details from paragraphs 1 to 3.
- Detail one. The bakery is the only light.only light
- Detail two. The loaves are cooling on the racks.cooling
- Detail three. His hands smell of yeast and salt.yeast and salt
- Detail four. His back aches.ached
- Write the answer. the bakery is the only light; the loaves are cooling; his hands smell of yeast and salt; his back aches.
Check. Four details from the first three paragraphs. ✓
2
PSQuestion 2 (8 marks): How does the writer use language to show that Joe feels calm at the start? Use two examples.
Accept any answer that uses two quotations from paragraphs 1 and 2, identifies a feature in each, and explains the effect of calm or peace. For example: The writer uses the quiet and the bakery light to show calm: "Still, he liked the quiet" and "The bakery was the only light" both suggest peace and a private place.
Method. Use point, evidence and effect for each example.
- Example one. Still, he liked the quiet shows a calm feeling.he liked the quiet
- Example two. The bakery was the only light gives a peaceful picture.only light
- Explain. Both suggest a private, peaceful start to the morning.private, peaceful
- Write the answer. The writer uses the quiet and the bakery light to show calm: "Still, he liked the quiet" and "The bakery was the only light" both suggest peace and a private place.
Check. Two quotations, two effects, one clear point. ✓
3
PSQuestion 1 (1 mark): Copy the phrase that describes the coat of the woman. Write the words.
her coat wet at the shoulders
Method. Find the description of the coat.
- Find the phrase. The phrase is in paragraph 3.her coat wet at the shoulders
- Copy the words. Copy them exactly.her coat wet at the shoulders
- Write the answer. her coat wet at the shoulders
Check. The phrase is copied exactly. ✓
4
RQuestion 2 (technique): Is "the bakery was the only light" a comparison? Write yes or no.
no
Method. Check for like, as or a comparison of two things.
- Check for like or as. The phrase has no like or as.no like or as
- Decide. It describes the bakery directly, so it is not a comparison.no
- Write the answer. no
Check. The sentence describes directly. ✓
5
PSQuestion 2 (word choice): Which word in paragraph 2 suggests tiredness? Write one word.
ached
Method. Look for a word about the body.
- Look for the body. His back ached.ached
- Name the word. Ached suggests tiredness or discomfort.ached
- Write the answer. ached
Check. Ached suggests discomfort. ✓
6
PSQuestion 2 (sensory language): Give one sensory word from paragraph 2 and say which sense it appeals to.
Accept any answer that gives one sensory word or phrase from paragraph 2 and names its sense. For example: smell: "yeast and salt" appeals to the sense of smell.
Method. Find a sense word and name the sense.
- Find the word. The hands smelled of yeast and salt.smelled
- Name the sense. Smelled appeals to smell.smell
- Write the answer. smell: "yeast and salt" appeals to the sense of smell.
Check. The sense is named. ✓
7
RQuestion 2 (verb): Which verb in paragraph 6 suggests the bus arrives with noise? Write one word.
hissed
Method. Look for a sound verb in the last paragraph.
- Look for the sound. The bus hissed to a stop.hissed
- Name the verb. Hissed is a sound verb.hissed
- Write the answer. hissed
Check. Hissed suggests noise. ✓
8
PSQuestion 2: Write a point, evidence and effect sentence about the cold tea in paragraph 6.
Accept any answer that makes a point about the cold tea, quotes it, and explains an effect such as distraction or time passing. For example: The cold tea suggests that Joe has been distracted, because the drink has been forgotten for a while.
Method. Make the three parts in one sentence.
- Point. The cold tea suggests a passage of time.passage of time
- Evidence. The phrase is a cup of tea had gone cold.a cup of tea had gone cold
- Effect. The reader senses that Joe has been lost in thought.lost in thought
- Write the answer. The cold tea suggests that Joe has been distracted, because the drink has been forgotten for a while.
Check. All three parts are present. ✓
9
FQuestion 1 (1 mark): In which paragraph does the woman speak? Write the number.
4
Method. Find the speech.
- Find the speech. The woman speaks in paragraph 4.I used to work here
- Give the number. The speech is in paragraph 4.4
- Write the answer. 4
Check. The speech is in paragraph 4. ✓
12.3
Questions 3 and 4: structure and evaluation
Video lesson: Questions 3 and 4: structure and evaluationComing soon
Context. Question 3 (8 marks): How does the writer structure the text to interest the reader? Think about the opening, the turn and the ending. Question 4 (20 marks): To what extent do you agree that Joe is kind to the stranger? Give a clear judgement, use the whole text, and consider the other side.
Key ideas
- Question 3: name the structure (opening image, turn, ending) and explain its effect.
- Question 4: give a judgement (agree, partly, disagree), reasons from the whole text, and the other side.
- Plan Question 4 with three reasons and a counter-argument before you write.
Worked example 12.3.1
Question 3: Which paragraph contains the turn? Give the number.
Method. Find the moment that changes the situation.
- Find the change. The note changes the situation for Joe.the bread is yours to keep
- Find the paragraph. The note is in paragraph 5.When he prised it open
- Give the number. The turn is in paragraph 5.5
- Write the answer. 5
Check. The note is the turn. ✓
Worked example 12.3.2
Question 4: Which is the most balanced judgement? Choose one: Joe is always kind., Joe is partly kind, because he listens and helps, but he keeps the tin hidden at first. or Kindness does not matter..
Method. Test each choice against the text.
- Read what the question asks for. Decide what the sentence or the text needs.
- Test the choice. It gives a judgement and considers both sides, using the whole text.Joe is partly kind, because he listens and helps, but he keeps the tin hidden at first. fits
- Reject the other choices. The first and third options give no balanced evidence.Joe is always kind. and Kindness does not matter. do not fit
- Write the answer. Joe is partly kind, because he listens and helps, but he keeps the tin hidden at first.
Check. The choice fits the text. ✓
Worked example 12.3.3
Question 4: Give one piece of evidence that Joe is kind to the stranger. Quote the words.
Method. Find an action that shows kindness.
- Find the action. He searches for the tin the woman mentioned.He went to the back room and found it
- Explain the kindness. He takes the time to help her.takes the time
- Give the evidence. Joe went to the back room and found it wedged behind the flour sacks.wedged behind the flour sacks
- Write the answer. Joe went to the back room and found it
Check. The evidence shows kindness. ✓
Exercise 12C Practice: Questions 3 and 4
1
PSQuestion 3 (8 marks): How does the writer structure the text to interest the reader? Write one paragraph.
Accept any answer that names the opening, the turn and the ending, and explains how the order creates interest. For example: The writer opens with a quiet bakery, then introduces the woman, then the note in the tin, and ends with the cold tea and the bus. The turn in paragraph 5 makes the reader want to know more.
Method. Name the parts, then explain the effect.
- Opening. The bakery opens the story quietly.the bakery
- Turn. The note is the turn in paragraph 5.the bread is yours to keep
- Ending. The bus ends the morning on a sound.hissed
- Write the answer. The writer opens with a quiet bakery, then introduces the woman, then the note in the tin, and ends with the cold tea and the bus. The turn in paragraph 5 makes the reader want to know more.
Check. Opening, turn and ending are named. ✓
2
PSQuestion 3 (structure): Which paragraph introduces the woman? Write the number.
3
Method. Find the first sight of the woman.
- Find the woman. A woman stood on the step in paragraph 3.A woman stood on the step
- Give the number. She is introduced in paragraph 3.3
- Write the answer. 3
Check. Paragraph 3 introduces her. ✓
3
RQuestion 3 (structure): Which paragraph is the closing image? Write the number.
6
Method. Find the last paragraph.
- Find the last paragraph. The final paragraph ends with the bus.the first bus of the morning
- Give the number. The closing image is paragraph 6.6
- Write the answer. 6
Check. Paragraph 6 closes. ✓
4
RQuestion 4 (20 marks): To what extent do you agree that Joe is kind? Give your judgement and one reason. Use the whole text.
Accept any answer that gives a clear judgement (agree, partly agree or disagree) with at least one reason from the whole text. For example: I partly agree, because Joe listens to the woman and searches for the tin, but he does not speak much and waits for her to ask.
Method. Make a judgement, then support it with evidence from different parts of the text.
- Judgement. Joe is partly kind.partly kind
- Reason one. He searches for the tin.searches for the tin
- Reason two. He listens to the woman.listens
- Write the answer. I partly agree, because Joe listens to the woman and searches for the tin, but he does not speak much and waits for her to ask.
Check. The judgement uses the whole text. ✓
5
RQuestion 4 (counter-argument): Which phrase from the text suggests Joe likes to be left alone? Copy the phrase.
Nobody asked him questions at four in the morning
Method. Find a sign of Joe's distance.
- Find the phrase. He likes to be left alone.Nobody asked him questions
- Copy it. Copy the phrase exactly.Nobody asked him questions at four in the morning
- Write the answer. Nobody asked him questions at four in the morning
Check. The phrase is the counter-evidence. ✓
6
PSQuestion 4: Write a topic sentence for a paragraph about Joe's kindness. One sentence.
Accept any answer that makes a clear point about Joe's kindness in one sentence. For example: Joe shows kindness by listening to the woman and by taking the time to search for the tin.
Method. State one clear point.
- Point. Joe shows kindness.kindness
- Support. He listens and searches.listens and searches
- Write the answer. Joe shows kindness by listening to the woman and by taking the time to search for the tin.
Check. The topic sentence is clear. ✓
7
PSQuestion 3: Which word signals a turn in paragraph 5? Write one word: when, but or ever.
When
Method. Find the signal word.
- Find the signal. When he prised it open begins the turn.When he prised it open
- Name the word. When introduces the turn.When
- Write the answer. When
Check. When signals the turn. ✓
8
RQuestion 4: Give one counter-argument to the judgement that Joe is kind. One sentence.
Accept any answer that gives a fair counter-argument, such as Joe not offering help or preferring to be left alone. For example: He does not offer to help at first, and he prefers to be left alone at night.
Method. State the other side fairly.
- Other side. He does not offer help at first.does not offer
- Support. He prefers to be left alone.left alone
- Write the answer. He does not offer to help at first, and he prefers to be left alone at night.
Check. The counter-argument is fair. ✓
12.4
Question 5: creative writing (40 marks)
Video lesson: Question 5: creative writing (40 marks)Coming soon
Context. Question 5 (40 marks, check board): Write a story that begins with an unexpected message left in a bakery. Plan a hook, a build-up, a turn and an ending. Use the senses, vary your sentences, and proof-read at the end.
Key ideas
- Plan first: who, where, when, the hook, the turn and the ending.
- Use three senses other than sight at least once.
- Vary sentences: a short sentence for effect, and at least one complex sentence.
- Leave five minutes to proof-read for spelling, punctuation and agreement.
Worked example 12.4.1
Write a hook sentence for this task. One sentence.
Method. Make the first sentence surprising and specific.
- Surprise. A hidden message is surprising.hidden
- Specific. Forty years and addressed to me are specific details.forty years
- Write it. The hook raises a question.The message had been hidden in a tin for forty years
- Write the answer. The message had been hidden in a tin for forty years, and it was addressed to me.
Check. The hook is surprising and specific. ✓
Worked example 12.4.2
Which plan element comes first in a narrative? Choose one: the hook, the ending or the list of adjectives.
Method. Test each choice against the text.
- Read what the question asks for. Decide what the sentence or the text needs.
- Test the choice. The hook opens the story and gets the reader reading.the hook fits
- Reject the other choices. The ending comes last, and a list of adjectives is not a plan element.the ending and the list of adjectives do not fit
- Write the answer. the hook
Check. The choice fits the text. ✓
Worked example 12.4.3
Which technique would improve the sentence "The bakery was warm." Give one improvement.
Method. Add a sense or a precise detail.
- Find the gap. The sentence gives only a fact.warm
- Add a sense. Smell adds life to the scene.smell
- Give the improvement. Add a sensory detail such as the smell of rye bread.a sensory detail such as the smell of rye bread
- Write the answer. a sensory detail such as the smell of rye bread
Check. The improvement adds a sense. ✓
Exercise 12D Practice: Question 5 planning and writing
1
PSWrite a plan of five notes for the Question 5 task: a hook, one event, a turn, one detail, and an ending.
Accept any answer that gives five notes, one each for the hook, the event, the turn, a detail and the ending. For example: Hook: a note in a tin; event: Joe finds the tin; turn: the note is addressed to him; detail: faded blue ink; ending: the bus arrives and the tea is cold.
Method. Note one idea per part.
- Hook. A note in a tin.tin
- Event. Joe finds the tin.finds
- Turn. The note is for Joe.for Joe
- Detail and ending. Faded ink and the bus close the story.faded ink
- Write the answer. Hook: a note in a tin; event: Joe finds the tin; turn: the note is addressed to him; detail: faded blue ink; ending: the bus arrives and the tea is cold.
Check. Five notes cover the plan. ✓
2
RWhich sentence type gives a pause for effect? Write one word: simple, complex or minor.
minor
Method. Think about a sentence with no verb.
- Think about the pause. A minor sentence with no verb gives a pause.no verb
- Name the type. A sentence without a verb is minor.minor
- Write the answer. minor
Check. Minor sentences give pauses. ✓
3
PSWrite a sentence that uses the senses of smell and sound together, about the bakery.
Accept any answer that uses at least one sense other than sight in a sentence about the bakery. For example: The bakery smelled of warm rye, and the oven door clicked open with a sigh.
Method. Pick two senses and link them to the bakery.
- Smell. Warm rye is a smell.smelled
- Sound. The door clicked with a sigh.clicked
- Write the answer. The bakery smelled of warm rye, and the oven door clicked open with a sigh.
Check. Two senses are used. ✓
4
FWhich tense should a narrative usually use for the main action? Write one word: past or future.
past
Method. Think about storytelling.
- Think about the story. Most narratives tell events that have happened.happened
- Name the tense. The past is the usual choice.past
- Write the answer. past
Check. Past tense is usual. ✓
5
RWrite one sentence that uses a simile to describe the woman at the door.
Accept any answer that uses like or as to compare the woman with something, in one sentence. For example: She stood at the door like a letter that had been left too long in the rain.
Method. Choose a comparison with like or as.
- Signal. Like signals a simile.like
- Comparison. A letter left in the rain is a vivid comparison.left in the rain
- Write the answer. She stood at the door like a letter that had been left too long in the rain.
Check. The simile is clear. ✓
6
RWhat should you do with the last five minutes of Question 5? Write one word: proof-read or plan.
proof-read
Method. Think about accuracy.
- Think about accuracy. Checking the writing finds errors.errors
- Choose. Proof-read is the best use of the last minutes.proof-read
- Write the answer. proof-read
Check. Proof-reading protects accuracy. ✓
12.5
Self-marking and next steps
Video lesson: Self-marking and next stepsComing soon
Context. Mark each answer using the "what a good answer includes" list. Tick each element you have, and count the number of elements. Then set one next step for the weakest part of your paper.
Key ideas
- Question 1: four correct details. Tick one for each.
- Questions 2 and 3: point, evidence, effect, and structure with an effect.
- Question 4: a judgement, reasons from the whole text, and the other side.
- Question 5: a clear focus or shape, vocabulary, sentences, and accuracy.
Worked example 12.5.1
Question 1 has four correct details. How many marks should it earn? Write the number.
Method. Give one mark per correct detail.
- Count the details. Each correct detail earns one mark.one mark each
- Count the total. Four correct details make four marks.four correct
- Give the answer. The total is 4 marks.4
- Write the answer. 4
Check. Four details, four marks. ✓
Worked example 12.5.2
Which is the best next step after a self-marked paper? Choose one: choose one weak area and practise it, change every answer at random or stop practising.
Method. Test each choice against the text.
- Read what the question asks for. Decide what the sentence or the text needs.
- Test the choice. One clear next step targets the weakest part.choose one weak area and practise it fits
- Reject the other choices. Random changes and stopping do not improve the weak area.change every answer at random and stop practising do not fit
- Write the answer. choose one weak area and practise it
Check. The choice fits the text. ✓
Worked example 12.5.3
Name one thing a good Question 4 includes. Give one thing.
Method. Look at the marking guide for Question 4.
- Check the guide. The guide asks for a judgement.judgement
- Name one thing. A clear judgement is included.clear judgement
- Give the answer. A clear judgement is one thing a good answer includes.a clear judgement
- Write the answer. a clear judgement
Check. A judgement is required. ✓
Exercise 12E Practice: self-marking
1
FQuestion 4 is worth how many marks? Write the number.
20
Method. Check the marking guide.
- Check. Question 4 is 20 marks.20
- Give the number. The total is 20.20
- Write the answer. 20
Check. Twenty marks. ✓
2
FHow many marks does Question 2 carry? Write the number.
8
Method. Check the guide.
- Check. Question 2 carries 8 marks.8
- Give the number. The total is 8.8
- Write the answer. 8
Check. Eight marks. ✓
3
FName one element a good Question 5 needs. One phrase.
Accept any answer that names one element such as a hook, a turn, a clear focus, varied sentences or accurate spelling. For example: a clear shape with a hook, a turn and an ending.
Method. Think about the marking criteria.
- Shape. A story needs a shape.shape
- Element. A hook and an ending give shape.hook
- Write the answer. a clear shape with a hook, a turn and an ending.
Check. The element is named. ✓
4
RWhich mark is lost if you retell a fact without evaluating it? Write one word: AO2 or AO4.
AO4
Method. Think about evaluation.
- Think about evaluation. Evaluation is judging, which is AO4 for Question 4.judging
- Name the objective. The objective is AO4.AO4
- Write the answer. AO4
Check. Evaluation is AO4. ✓
5
PSWrite one next step after marking your paper. One sentence.
Accept any answer that names one specific next step for the weakest question, with a clear action. For example: I will practise planning Question 4 with a counter-argument, because I lost most marks there.
Method. Name the weakest part and the action.
- Weakest part. Question 4 lost most marks.Question 4
- Action. Practise a plan with a counter-argument.counter-argument
- Write the answer. I will practise planning Question 4 with a counter-argument, because I lost most marks there.
Check. The next step is specific. ✓
6
RShould you mark your own answers against the guide? Write yes or no.
yes
Method. Think about the value of self-marking.
- Think about the value. Self-marking shows where marks were gained or lost.gained or lost
- Decide. Self-marking is useful.yes
- Write the answer. yes
Check. Self-marking helps. ✓
7
FHow many marks is Question 1 worth? Write the number.
4
Method. Read the timing table.
- Find the row. Question 1 is worth 4 marks.4
- Give the number. Question 1 is 4 marks.4
- Write the answer. 4
Check. Four marks. ✓
8
FHow many marks is Question 3 worth? Write the number.
8
Method. Read the timing table.
- Find the row. Question 3 is worth 8 marks.8
- Give the number. Question 3 is 8 marks.8
- Write the answer. 8
Check. Eight marks. ✓
9
FWhich question asks you to write a story or description? Write the question number.
5
Method. Read the timing table.
- Find the task. Question 5 is the creative writing task.creative writing
- Give the number. The writing task is Question 5.5
- Write the answer. 5
Check. Question 5 is the writing task. ✓
10
FWhich question asks how the writer structures the text? Write the question number.
3
Method. Read the question wording.
- Find the wording. Question 3 asks about structure.structure
- Give the number. Structure is Question 3.3
- Write the answer. 3
Check. Question 3 is about structure. ✓
11
FWhich question asks whether you agree, with a judgement? Write the question number.
4
Method. Read the question wording.
- Find the wording. Question 4 asks to what extent you agree.to what extent
- Give the number. The judgement question is Question 4.4
- Write the answer. 4
Check. Question 4 asks for a judgement. ✓
12
RWhich assessment objective covers language analysis? Write the code: AO2 or AO4.
AO2
Method. Think about the reading objectives.
- Think about the objective. AO2 covers how language and structure work.language and structure
- Name the code. Language analysis is AO2.AO2
- Write the answer. AO2
Check. Language is AO2. ✓
13
RWhich assessment objective covers spelling, punctuation and grammar in writing? Write the code: AO5 or AO6.
AO6
Method. Think about technical accuracy.
- Think about accuracy. AO6 covers technical accuracy.technical accuracy
- Name the code. Spelling and grammar are AO6.AO6
- Write the answer. AO6
Check. Accuracy is AO6. ✓
14
PSWhich step helps you most in a 20-mark judgement question? Write one word: planning or rushing.
planning
Method. Think about the structure of a long answer.
- Think about structure. A plan with reasons and a counter-argument keeps the answer focused.focused
- Choose. Planning is the helpful step.planning
- Write the answer. planning
Check. Planning keeps the answer focused. ✓
15
RAfter marking your paper, what should you do first? Write one word: reflect or hide.
reflect
Method. Think about improvement.
- Think about improvement. Reflecting on the marks shows what to change.what to change
- Choose. Reflecting comes first.reflect
- Write the answer. reflect
Check. Reflection leads to improvement. ✓
Chapter summary
| Skill | Method |
|---|---|
| Timing and planning | Read once, plan time across the five questions, leave time to proof-read |
| Question 1 (4 marks) | Four different, correct details from the paragraphs the question names |
| Questions 2 and 3 (8 marks each) | Point, evidence and effect for language; the structural order and its effect for structure |
| Question 4 (20 marks) | A clear judgement, reasons from the whole text, the other side, and a balanced conclusion |
| Question 5 (40 marks) | A plan with a hook and a turn, a clear focus, varied sentences, senses and proof-reading |
| Self-marking | Tick the marking guide, find the weakest question, and set one specific next step |
Can you…?
- I can read and plan my time across all five questions
- I can give four correct details for Question 1
- I can write point, evidence and effect for Question 2
- I can name structure and its effect for Question 3
- I can write a balanced judgement for Question 4
- I can plan and write a Question 5 piece with a clear shape and proof-read it
Key terms
- retrieval
- finding and giving details from a text accurately
- judgement
- a clear view about how far a statement is true, with evidence
- counter-argument
- the other side of an argument, stated fairly
- turn
- a moment that changes the situation
- marking guide
- the criteria that show what a good answer includes
- next step
- one specific action to improve the weakest part of a paper
Exercise 12Z Check-up
1
How many marks is Question 5 worth? Write the number.
40
Method. Read the timing table.
- Find the row. Question 5 is worth 40 marks.40
- Give the number. Question 5 is 40 marks.40
- Write the answer. 40
Check. Forty marks. ✓
2
Give the number of the paragraph where Joe finds the note. Write the number.
5
Method. Find the paragraph about the tin.
- Find the note. Joe finds the note in the back room in paragraph 5.When he prised it open
- Give the number. The note is in paragraph 5.5
- Write the answer. 5
Check. Paragraph 5 has the note. ✓
3
Copy the phrase that describes the lid of the tin.
The lid was stiff with age
Method. Find the description of the lid.
- Find the phrase. The lid is described in paragraph 5.The lid was stiff with age
- Copy it. Copy the phrase exactly.The lid was stiff with age
- Write the answer. The lid was stiff with age
Check. The phrase is exact. ✓
4
Which technique is "like a sleeping animal under snow"? Write one word.
simile
Method. Look for like.
- Find the signal. Like compares the loaves to an animal.like a sleeping animal
- Name it. A comparison with like is a simile.simile
- Write the answer. simile
Check. Like makes a simile. ✓
5
Which verb in paragraph 2 tells you what Joe's hands did? Write one word.
smelled
Method. Find what the hands do.
- Find the description. The hands smelled of yeast and salt.smelled
- Give the word. Smelled is the word.smelled
- Write the answer. smelled
Check. Smelled tells what the hands did. ✓
6
What tense is most of the extract written in? Write one word.
past
Method. Look at the verbs.
- Look at the verbs. Verbs such as arrived, stood and said are past.stood
- Name the tense. The extract is mostly in the past tense.past
- Write the answer. past
Check. Past tense. ✓
7
Which phrase in paragraph 3 suggests the woman is looking for someone? Copy the words.
as if she were searching for someone she had lost
Method. Find the phrase about searching.
- Find the phrase. The phrase is in paragraph 3.as if she were searching
- Copy it. Copy the phrase exactly.as if she were searching for someone she had lost
- Write the answer. as if she were searching for someone she had lost
Check. The phrase is exact. ✓
8
Give one counter-argument to the judgement that Joe is kind. One sentence.
Accept any fair counter-argument, such as Joe not offering help at first or preferring to be left alone. For example: Joe does not offer help at first.
Method. State the other side fairly.
- Other side. Joe does not offer help at first.does not offer help
- Check. The other side is stated fairly.fairly
- Write the answer. Joe does not offer help at first.
Check. The counter-argument is fair. ✓
9
Give the plan for the opening of your Question 5 story in one sentence.
Accept any one-sentence plan with a hook and a clear event. For example: A woman returns to the bakery and asks for a recipe that was hidden for years.
Method. Write a hook and an event.
- Hook. A woman returns to the bakery.returns
- Event. She asks for a recipe hidden for years.hidden
- Write the answer. A woman returns to the bakery and asks for a recipe that was hidden for years.
Check. The plan has a hook and an event. ✓
10
Name one thing you should do in the last five minutes of the paper. One phrase.
Accept any sensible step, such as proof-read for spelling and punctuation, or check the agreement of verbs. For example: proof-read for spelling.
Method. Think about accuracy.
- Accuracy. Proof-reading finds errors.errors
- Step. Proof-read for spelling.spelling
- Write the answer. proof-read for spelling.
Check. A sensible step. ✓
Total 26 marks. Allow about 26 minutes.
Exercise 12X Exam-style questions
1
FText: "The bakery was the only light on Fenwick Street before dawn." Give one word that describes the time of day. Write one word.[1 mark]
dawn
Method. Find the word about time.
- Find the time. The phrase before dawn gives the time.before dawn
- Copy the word. The time of day is dawn.dawn
- Write the answer. dawn
Check. Dawn is the time. ✓
2
FText: "like a sleeping animal under snow." Name the technique and write one word.[1 mark]
simile
Method. Look for like.
- Find the signal. Like compares the loaves to an animal.like
- Name it. A comparison with like is a simile.simile
- Write the answer. simile
Check. Like makes a simile. ✓
3
RText: "He had never opened it, and he had never been told what was inside." Explain the effect of the repetition of "never". Use your own words.[3 marks]
Accept any answer that says the repeated never stresses Joe's lack of knowledge, which builds curiosity or mystery about the tin. For example: the repetition builds mystery about what is in the tin.
Method. Name the repetition and explain its effect.
- Repetition. Never is repeated twice.never
- Effect. It stresses his ignorance, building mystery.mystery
- Write the answer. the repetition builds mystery about what is in the tin.
Check. The effect is explained. ✓
4
RText: "Joe sat down slowly and read the note again." Explain what the adverb "slowly" suggests about Joe. Use your own words.[2 marks]
Accept any answer that says the adverb suggests Joe is thoughtful, shocked or reluctant to move on. For example: slowly suggests that Joe is shocked and thoughtful.
Method. Explain what the adverb suggests.
- Adverb. Slowly describes how Joe sat.slowly
- Suggests. It suggests shock or thought.shock
- Write the answer. slowly suggests that Joe is shocked and thoughtful.
Check. The adverb is explained. ✓
5
RText: "She did not come in." Explain what this suggests about the woman. Use your own words.[2 marks]
Accept any answer that says the woman is hesitant, uncertain or distant, or reluctant to enter the bakery. For example: she seems hesitant and unsure of her welcome.
Method. Explain the hesitation.
- Read the sentence. Not coming in shows reluctance.reluctance
- Explain. She seems hesitant.hesitant
- Write the answer. she seems hesitant and unsure of her welcome.
Check. The idea is explained. ✓
6
RText: "I used to work here." Explain how this line changes the reader's view of the woman. Use one sentence.[3 marks]
Accept any answer that says the line reveals a link to the bakery, suggesting she has a past connection and the story has a history. For example: the line reveals she has a past connection to the bakery.
Method. Explain the reveal.
- Read the line. The woman admits a past link.past link
- Explain the change. The reader sees her as connected to the bakery.connected
- Write the answer. the line reveals she has a past connection to the bakery.
Check. The change is explained. ✓
7
RText: "Outside, the first bus of the morning hissed to a stop." Explain the effect of this final sentence on the reader. Use your own words.[4 marks]
Accept any answer that says the final sentence brings the story back to the everyday world, ending on a calm, ordinary note that leaves the reader thinking. For example: it returns the story to the everyday and ends quietly.
Method. Explain the closing image and its effect.
- Closing image. The bus returns to the everyday.everyday
- Effect. The ending is quiet and open.quiet
- Write the answer. the final sentence brings the story back to the everyday and ends quietly.
Check. The ending is explained. ✓
8
RText: "Joe, if you find this, the bread is yours to keep." Explain why the note might surprise Joe. Use your own words.[3 marks]
Accept any answer that says the note is surprising because it names Joe and offers him something valuable, which suggests a hidden connection to the bakery. For example: the note names him and gives him the bread, which is a surprise.
Method. Explain the surprise.
- Name him. The note addresses Joe directly.Joe
- Explain the surprise. It offers him something valuable.valuable
- Write the answer. the note names him and gives him the bread, which is a surprise.
Check. The surprise is explained. ✓
9
RText: "Nobody asked him questions at four in the morning." Explain what this sentence reveals about Joe. Use your own words.[2 marks]
Accept any answer that says Joe likes to be left alone, which shows he values quiet and privacy. For example: he values privacy and quiet.
Method. Explain what it reveals.
- Read the sentence. No questions suggests he likes quiet.quiet
- Explain. He values privacy.privacy
- Write the answer. he values privacy and quiet.
Check. The idea is explained. ✓
10
RText: "as if she were searching for someone she had lost." Write one sentence that explains the effect of this simile on the reader.[3 marks]
Accept any sentence that says the simile suggests loss and longing, so the reader senses the woman's emotional need. For example: the image of searching suggests loss and longing.
Method. Explain the effect.
- Image. Searching for someone lost suggests loss.loss
- Effect. The reader senses longing.longing
- Write the answer. the image of searching suggests loss and longing.
Check. The effect is explained. ✓
11
RText: "She looked past Joe at the ovens." Explain what this detail adds about the woman's focus. Use one sentence.[2 marks]
Accept any answer that says she is focused on the past or the memory of the bakery, not on Joe. For example: she is focused on the past, not on Joe.
Method. Explain the focus.
- Find the focus. She looks past Joe.past Joe
- Explain. Her focus is on the past.past
- Write the answer. she is focused on the past, not on Joe.
Check. The focus is explained. ✓