AQA English Literature Paper 2 Section A: 'An Inspector Calls'

Summary

This video provides an in-depth guide to approaching the AQA English Literature Paper 2, Section A, specifically for ‘An Inspector Calls.’ It explains the exam structure, marking criteria, and the importance of understanding the text inside and out. Key tips include focusing on answering the question directly, analyzing language, structure, and form, and incorporating relevant historical and social context. The video emphasizes the importance of presenting a cohesive argument, using detailed evidence, and refining writing skills to meet exam standards. It also offers practical advice on selecting the best question and organizing responses effectively.

Takeaways

• 😀 You have 45 minutes to answer one question in Section A of Paper 2, worth 34 marks. Be sure to manage your time wisely.
• 😀 This is a closed-book exam, so you must know your text thoroughly, as there are no extracts provided.
• 😀 The primary goal in your exam response is to answer the question directly and stay on topic—don't let your knowledge of the text cause you to veer off-course.
• 😀 Aim to create a conceptualized response, meaning your answer should have one clear line of argument throughout, rather than disjointed points.
• 😀 Supporting references (quotes, paraphrases, etc.) are crucial for a strong response. Use them to back up your analysis effectively.
• 😀 AO2 (Analysis of methods) requires you to examine language, structure, and form, but always make sure these methods are relevant to answering the question.
• 😀 Be mindful of the language choices made by the author, such as specific word choices or figurative language, which can highlight important themes.
• 😀 You don’t need to analyze every method, but focus on the ones that add depth to your answer and support your argument.
• 😀 Context (AO3) should be incorporated where relevant. For *An Inspector Calls*, consider how historical and social contexts influence the play's themes, such as class and social responsibility.
• 😀 AO4 is about demonstrating accuracy in spelling, punctuation, and grammar, as well as clear expression. A few minutes to proofread your work can make a significant difference.
• 😀 When choosing between two exam questions, don't just pick the one you think is easiest—choose the one that will allow you to write the best and most detailed answer.

Q & A

What is the structure of the AQA English Literature Paper 2 exam, and how is Section A organized?

The AQA English Literature Paper 2 exam is 2 hours and 15 minutes long and consists of three sections. Section A focuses on Modern Prose and Drama, with two questions to choose from, and candidates must answer just one. This section is worth 34 marks, and students are expected to spend around 45 minutes on it.

What are the assessment objectives (AOs) for Section A, and why are they important?

The four assessment objectives for Section A are AO1 (response to task and text), AO2 (analysis of methods like language, structure, and form), AO3 (context), and AO4 (accuracy in spelling, punctuation, and grammar). Understanding these objectives is crucial because they guide how students should structure their answers and what criteria the examiners will use to mark them.

What does AO1 (response to task and text) require from students in the exam?

AO1 requires students to answer the exam question directly, ensuring their response stays focused on the task. This includes presenting a conceptualized response, where there is a clear line of argument that is developed throughout the essay, supported by relevant references and quotations from the text.

How can students demonstrate a 'conceptualized response' in their writing?

A 'conceptualized response' involves presenting one clear line of argument that is explored throughout the essay. For example, instead of listing disjointed points, students should develop a thesis statement and build their argument around it. The response should have a cohesive structure that ties the points together and answers the question in a focused manner.

What is the role of AO2 (analysis of methods) in Section A, and how can students effectively use it?

AO2 involves analyzing language, structure, and form in the text. Students should focus on how specific methods contribute to the overall meaning or themes of the play. For example, analyzing Priestley's use of dramatic irony or specific word choices can enhance the depth of their analysis. However, the methods discussed should always be relevant to the question at hand.

Why is it important to choose the most relevant evidence when answering a question about *An Inspector Calls*?

Choosing the most relevant evidence is key to writing a detailed and sophisticated answer. For example, when analyzing dramatic irony, selecting a quotation like Mr. Burling's statement about the Titanic being 'unsinkable' allows for a deeper exploration of capitalist ideology and its flaws, which contributes more meaningfully to the argument than a less complex example.

How should students approach the analysis of context (AO3) in their exam answers?

Students should incorporate context as it relates to the question but avoid overloading their response with irrelevant historical or social background. AO3 is important but should not overshadow the focus on the text itself. For example, understanding that *An Inspector Calls* was written post-WWII but set in 1912 helps explain its critique of capitalism but should be tied directly to the themes of social responsibility or the characters' actions.

What is the significance of dramatic irony in *An Inspector Calls*, and how can it be analyzed effectively?

Dramatic irony is used in *An Inspector Calls* to highlight the characters' ignorance or false beliefs, especially in relation to social issues. For example, Mr. Burling's statements about the Titanic being 'unsinkable' are ironic because the audience knows the ship sank, thus undermining Burling's confidence and the capitalist ideology he represents. Analyzing the choice of words and repetition deepens the analysis of this irony.

What does AO4 assess, and how can students ensure they achieve high marks in this area?

AO4 assesses spelling, punctuation, grammar, and the clarity of expression. To achieve high marks, students should ensure their writing is free of errors and use varied sentence structures and vocabulary to clearly express their ideas. Taking a few minutes at the end of the exam to review and edit the response can help secure these marks.

How should students decide which question to answer in Section A of the exam?

Students should choose the question they feel most confident in answering, rather than necessarily opting for the one that seems easiest. For example, if a question focuses on a specific character like Sheila, and the student feels confident about her development, that might be the better choice. If the student has a broader understanding of themes like social responsibility, the second question might be a better fit.