AQA GCSE English Literature: Modern Texts – Prose and Drama

AQA GCSE English Literature: Modern Texts - Prose and Drama (Paper 2, Section A)

This tutorial will guide you through the requirements of Paper 2, Section A, focusing on how to write a successful essay on a modern prose or drama text.

Understanding the Task

In Paper 2, Section A, you will be presented with two modern texts (one prose and one drama) and asked to write an essay on one of your choice. You must choose a question from the two provided, which will focus on a specific theme or idea within the text. This section contributes 24 marks towards your overall Paper 2 mark, and 15% to your overall GCSE English Literature grade.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Time Allocation: You have 45 minutes to complete this essay.
• Content: Your essay must demonstrate your understanding of the text and your ability to answer the question.
• Structure: Your essay should be structured logically, with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
• Analysis: You must use textual evidence to support your arguments and demonstrate your understanding of the author’s techniques and themes.

The Three Steps to Success

1. Understanding the Question: * Read the question carefully: Identify the key words and phrases, such as “how”, “why”, “to what extent”, etc. * Underline the keywords: This helps focus your essay and ensure you answer the question directly. * Identify the focus: What specific theme or idea is the question asking you to explore? * Consider the text’s context: How does the historical, social, or cultural context of the text inform the question?

2. Planning Your Essay: * Brainstorm: Generate ideas and examples from the text that relate to the question. * Create an outline: Structure your essay with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.

   • Introduction: Introduce the text and the focus of your essay. Briefly state your main argument (thesis statement).
   • Body Paragraphs: Each paragraph should explore a specific point related to your main argument, using textual evidence to support your claims.
   • Conclusion: Briefly summarise your main points and restate your thesis statement.

3. Writing Your Essay: * Use textual evidence: Quote directly from the text to support your arguments. * Analyse the evidence: Explain how the textual evidence supports your point and demonstrates your understanding of the text. * Show your understanding of the writer’s techniques: Explain how the writer uses language, structure, characters, and themes to create meaning. * Develop your argument: Use connecting phrases to link your ideas and paragraphs together. * Write clearly and concisely: Use accurate grammar and punctuation.

Tips for Success

• Practice, practice, practice: Write essays under timed conditions to prepare for the exam.
• Read widely: Explore different interpretations of your chosen text through critical essays and online resources.
• Discuss with peers: Share your ideas and interpretations with classmates to broaden your understanding.
• Seek feedback: Ask your teacher or tutor to review your essays and provide constructive feedback.

Remember:

• Answer the question directly: Make sure your essay clearly addresses the specific question you are asked.
• Use textual evidence: Support your arguments with specific quotes and examples from the text.
• Analyse the writer’s techniques: Explain how the writer uses language, structure, and other techniques to create meaning.

With careful preparation and practice, you can confidently approach the AQA GCSE English Literature Paper 2, Section A and write a successful essay on your chosen modern prose or drama text.