Skip to content
    English Literature GCSE

    Whole text

    What Whole text means in English Literature GCSE, as defined for AQA.

    Definitions of Whole text

    Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.

    Check what you remember

    Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Whole text in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.

    Reference: AQA

    The entire set text, which students should study and demonstrate detailed knowledge of, including key events, characters, themes and settings.
    AQA · Modern texts (study guide)
    The complete narrative, not only selected chapters or an extract, which students should study and revise.
    AQA · The 19th-century novel (study guide)

    Topics that use Whole text

    Related terms

    Using Whole text in the exam

    Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.

    Practise English Literature questions

    Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.

    Start free

    A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge

    All English Literature GCSE terms