English Language Paper 1, Question 2: Securing 8/8

Summary

In this educational video, the presenter walks viewers through the process of answering AQA English Language Paper 1, Question 2 effectively. The focus is on analyzing language in a specific paragraph, breaking down the task into manageable steps. Viewers are introduced to the PRET structure (Point, Reference, Technique, Effect, and Link) to craft well-structured, focused responses. Key language devices such as similes, metaphors, and hyperbole are highlighted, with examples provided for each. The presenter emphasizes the importance of quality analysis, encouraging students to write two concise paragraphs within a 10-minute window to achieve full marks.

Takeaways

• 😀 The key focus of AQA English Language Paper 1, Question 2 is analyzing how the writer uses language to convey meaning.
• 😀 The 'language' in this context refers to both words/phrases (nouns, verbs, adjectives, etc.) and literary devices (similes, metaphors, etc.).
• 😀 For this 8-mark question, students should aim to write **two** paragraphs, each supported by textual evidence and language analysis.
• 😀 The time limit for this question is 10 minutes, which means students should avoid writing too much and focus on quality over quantity.
• 😀 The recommended structure for answering this question is the **PRETzel method**: Point, Reference, Technique, Effect, Zoom, and Link.
• 😀 It's essential to pick **one technique** per paragraph and focus on analyzing the effect of a **specific word/phrase** from the quote.
• 😀 Language devices to focus on include simile, metaphor, hyperbole, personification, onomatopoeia, rule of three, pathetic fallacy, sibilance, zoomorphism, and symbolism.
• 😀 The **effect** section is the most important part of the paragraph and must be detailed and perceptive to earn high marks.
• 😀 Students must ensure they are always analyzing the effect of both the language technique and the specific word or phrase they zoom into.
• 😀 Avoid over-quoting and focus on **two quotes per paragraph**: one for the main point and one for zooming in on a specific word or phrase.

Q & A

What is the focus of AQA English Language Paper 1, Question 2?

The focus of AQA English Language Paper 1, Question 2 is to analyze how the writer uses language in a given passage. Specifically, the question requires students to discuss language devices, techniques, and their effects on the reader.

How many paragraphs should you write for Question 2, and how much time should you spend?

For Question 2, you should write two paragraphs. You should spend no more than 10 minutes answering the question, which means roughly 5 minutes per paragraph.

What is the 'Pretzel' structure, and why is it recommended?

'Pretzel' is a structured approach for answering the question. It involves making a Point, providing a Reference, identifying a Technique, explaining the Effect, Zooming into specific words or phrases, and making a Link. This structure helps ensure that all aspects of the mark scheme are covered and facilitates a detailed, perceptive response.

What types of language devices should students focus on for this question?

Students should focus on both basic language elements like nouns, verbs, adverbs, and adjectives, as well as more advanced language devices such as similes, metaphors, hyperbole, personification, and symbolism. These devices help to deepen the analysis of how language affects meaning.

Why is the effect analysis the most important part of the answer?

The effect analysis is crucial because it demonstrates how the language techniques impact the reader and contribute to the overall meaning of the text. It is the part of the answer where you can be most detailed and perceptive, which directly influences your score.

How should you zoom in when analyzing a quote?

When zooming in, you should focus on a specific word or phrase within the quote. This could be a noun, verb, adverb, or adjective. The goal is to explain the significance of this word or phrase in relation to the overall meaning and effect on the reader.

What does 'subject terminology' refer to, and why is it important in the answer?

Subject terminology refers to the specific terms used to describe language techniques, such as 'simile,' 'metaphor,' 'verb,' 'noun,' etc. It is important because using correct terminology shows your understanding of the language techniques and fulfills the requirements of the mark scheme.

What is the difference between detail and perceptiveness in your answer?

Detail refers to providing specific examples, such as quotes and techniques, while perceptiveness involves providing a deep, thoughtful explanation of the effect those examples have on the reader. To score highly, both aspects must be present—detail ensures accuracy, while perceptiveness shows insightful analysis.

How does using a model answer help students prepare for this question?

Studying model answers helps students understand the structure and depth of analysis required to score highly. By reviewing well-written examples, students can learn how to focus on key techniques, choose relevant quotes, and provide insightful effect analysis.

What does the video suggest is the most common mistake students make in their answers?

The most common mistake students make is 'waffling'—writing too much without answering the question or providing sufficient depth of analysis. Instead, students should focus on clear, detailed responses, particularly in the effect analysis, without going off-topic or over-explaining less important parts of the answer.