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The key to a successful response is to focus on the question and understand what you are being asked to do. Use the marks available for each question as a guide on how much to write.

Example question one

Look again at lines 1-6

a. Identify one phrase which shows the father’s reaction to his daughter’s arrival. (1 mark)

b. Why is he angry? (1 mark)

c. Helen and her father are having an argument. Give two more examples of subjects they disagree on. (2 marks)

These short types of questions are not looking for a close analysis of the text or a detailed response. This task aims to check your reading skills and ability to pick out the relevant information from the fictional text. Don’t spend too long on this type of question: the number of marks available should be your guide. These types of questions usually have a low number of marks. Remember to read the question very carefully – in question 1a you are asked to find a phrase, so it’s very important you avoid writing down a whole sentence. A phrase would show you were being selective, whereas a whole sentence would not be awarded a mark.

Example question two

Look again at lines 15-24

How does the writer use language and structure to create tension? (6 marks) You should use relevant subject terminology to support your answer.

If you’re asked to focus on a particular section of an extract, then focus your analysis on that bit. When you’re looking at language remember to examine particular words and phrases used. What patterns of words do you notice – for this question, are there lots of words connected with uncertainty or fear?

Look at sentence structures and notice how the writer is using these to create tension. Are there lots of short sentences to build pace? Do longer sentences keep us hanging on?

Remember to use short quotations as your evidence, one or two words or a phrase instead of a whole sentence.

Example question three

Look again at lines 1-24

Explore how the writer presents Helen’s attitude towards her family. (12 marks)

Support your ideas by referring to the language and structure of this section, using relevant subject terminology.

You have been asked to focus on a longer section for this question and there are also more marks available (twice as many as the last question). This question needs a more developed analysis of the text and a focus on language and structure. Here you are being asked to focus on the character’s attitude towards her family, exploring HOW the writer uses language and structure to present this attitude. Remember to use short quotations as your evidence, one or two words or a phrase instead of a whole sentence.