Question 1

How do I choose which text to study for Section A?

Accepted Answer

Your school will likely assign a text, but if you have a choice, pick one that you find engaging and that has clear themes and characters. Popular choices include 'An Inspector Calls' for its strong social message and dramatic structure, or 'Lord of the Flies' for its vivid symbolism. Read the first few pages to see if the style appeals to you. Also, consider the availability of revision resources and past papers for that text.

Question 2

What should I include in my answer for the extract question (part a)?

Accepted Answer

For part (a), you need to analyse the given extract in detail. Start by identifying the key events, characters, and language features. Use short quotations to support your points. Discuss how the writer creates mood, tension, or character, and link your observations to the wider text. For example, if the extract shows a confrontation, explain how it reflects the play's central conflict. Aim for 2-3 well-developed paragraphs.

Question 3

How can I improve my analysis of writer's methods?

Accepted Answer

To improve, focus on specific techniques like imagery, dialogue, and structure. Ask yourself: why did the writer choose this word or this stage direction? What effect does it have on the reader or audience? For instance, in 'Blood Brothers', the use of the narrator creates a sense of inevitability. Practice by annotating short passages and discussing your ideas with classmates. Also, learn a bank of analytical verbs (e.g., 'suggests', 'emphasises', 'contrasts') to vary your language.

Question 4

How much context do I need to include?

Accepted Answer

Context should be relevant and integrated, not just tacked on. For example, when discussing the theme of social class in 'An Inspector Calls', you might mention that Priestley was a socialist writing in 1945, just after the war, when there was a push for social reform. Explain how this context influences the play's message. Avoid lengthy historical digressions; one or two well-chosen contextual points per paragraph are enough.

Question 5

What if I forget a quote in the exam?

Accepted Answer

Don't panic. You can paraphrase key moments or refer to events without exact quotes. For example, 'When the Inspector reveals that Eva Smith worked at Birling's factory, it shows Birling's lack of responsibility.' However, try to learn 10-15 key quotes for each character and theme. Use memory techniques like flashcards or mind maps. In the exam, if you can't remember the exact words, describe the scene and its significance.

Question 6

How should I structure my whole answer for Section A?

Accepted Answer

Your answer should have two distinct parts. For part (a), write 2-3 paragraphs focusing on the extract. Start with a brief overview of what happens in the extract, then analyse language, structure, and context. For part (b), write 3-4 paragraphs discussing the wider text. Use a clear topic sentence for each paragraph, and ensure you answer the question directly. End with a short conclusion that summarises your main argument. Remember to spend roughly equal time on both parts.

Section A (20%) Post 1914 Prose/Drama

Topic Overview

Key Concepts

What You Need to Demonstrate

Marking Points

Examiner Tips

Common Mistakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Before You Start

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Likely Command Words

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How to Revise Section A (20%) Post 1914 Prose/Drama — WJEC GCSE English Literature

Examiner Tips for Section A (20%) Post 1914 Prose/Drama

Common Mistakes in Section A (20%) Post 1914 Prose/Drama

Key Marking Points