AQA · A-Level · English Language
Course version: 7702 · Version from Sept 2017
In preparation for the writing, students will study a range of style…
Full specification wording
Original writing: In preparation for the writing, students will study a range of style models before selecting and analysing one style model in detail.
This guidance explains how to prepare for the original writing task by studying a range of style models and then selecting and analysing one in detail.
Checked against the AQA 7702 specification (opens in a new tab) on .
- Point 2 of 4
- 4 key terms
Study notes
From the checked teaching notes for this specification point.
The idea
This guidance explains how to prepare for the original writing task by studying a range of style models and then selecting and analysing one in detail. You should read widely across genres and registers, noting how each model shapes meaning through lexical choice, syntax, figurative language, cohesion and graphology. After this survey, choose one model that best supports your own writing intention. Analyse it closely: identify its audience and purpose, map its structural and stylistic features, and evaluate how those features create effects you can adapt. Record your analysis as annotations on the model itself, linking each observation to a specific technique and its effect. This annotated model becomes part of your folder and a practical reference during drafting. The aim is not to copy the model but to understand its craft so you can make informed choices in your own original writing.
Common mistakes and how to put them right
Misunderstanding: any single text can serve as a style model without comparison.
Put it right: The requirement is to study a range of models first, then select one for detailed analysis, so breadth of reading precedes depth.
Misunderstanding: analysis means summarising what the model is about.
Put it right: Analysis should examine how language and structure create effects, not merely retell content.
Misunderstanding: the annotated model is optional preparation.
Put it right: The annotated style model is a required component of the submitted folder, so annotations must be completed and retained.
Exam tips
- Keep a reading log of at least three different style models, noting genre, audience, purpose and two or three distinctive language features for each.
- When you select your detailed model, annotate it with clear labels that name the technique and explain its effect, using arrows or margin notes linked to specific lines.
- Use your annotated model actively while drafting: refer back to it to justify your own choices in the reflective commentary.
Try the lesson
The start of the Original writing: In preparation for the writing, students will study a range of style models before selecting and analysing one style model in detail. lesson, made from checked teaching notes for this specification point.
Have a go first
According to the specification, what must students do before selecting and analysing one style model in detail?
Listen
This guidance explains how to prepare for the original writing task by studying a range of style models and then selecting and analysing one in detail. You should read widely across genres and registers, noting how each model shapes meaning through lexical choice, syntax, figurative language, cohesion and graphology. After this survey, choose one model that best supports your own writing intention. Analyse it closely: identify its audience and purpose, map its structural and stylistic features, and evaluate how those features create effects you can adapt. Record your analysis as annotations on the model itself, linking each observation to a specific technique and its effect. This annotated model becomes part of your folder and a practical reference during drafting. The aim is not to copy the model but to understand its craft so you can make informed choices in your own original writing. A common slip: Misunderstanding: any single text can serve as a style model without comparison. Instead, the requirement is to study a range of models first, then select one for detailed analysis, so breadth of reading precedes depth. Exam tip: Keep a reading log of at least three different style models, noting genre, audience, purpose and two or three distinctive language features for each.
Key words
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Wide reading and model selection
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Close linguistic and stylistic analysis
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Annotation as a planning and analytical tool
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Applying model craft to original writing
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See every definition
- Wide reading and model selection
- Studying a range of style models before selecting one that best supports your own writing intention.
- Close linguistic and stylistic analysis
- Examining how language and structure create effects rather than merely retelling content.
- Annotation as a planning and analytical tool
- Recording analysis as annotations on the model itself, linking each observation to a specific technique and its effect.
- Applying model craft to original writing
- Understanding the model's craft so you can make informed choices in your own original writing rather than copying it.
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