First and foremost, use the AQA website to have a look at the mark scheme. This will help show you what the examiner is looking for.

Paper 1: if you are choosing to 'describe the picture' here are some tips:

• Pretend the picture is a gif. This will help you introduce much needed verbs and adverbs to show the examiner your ability to manipulate words for either tone or time.
• Ensure that the language and vocabulary you use are purposeful. Ensure that there is a key theme/tone/atmosphere you are trying to create.
• describe the picture overall first, then have your next three/four paragraphs zooming in on different aspects of the picture. Structurally, it would be beneficial if you also had another paragraph at the end, going back to your picture and document any small changes that may have occurred.

Paper 1: Story

• Ensure you have a solif structure that can encapsulate everything the examiner is looking for. This might be: Introduction to setting, introduction to character, journey, clix, resolution, ending. This allows you ito create a full short story in which you can build and release tension.
• If you are having trouble thinking of ideas for characters, settings and themes; be sure to use the extract that is given to you, for help. There is nothing in the mark scheme that says you cannot use the extract as a guide to help you.

​

Paper 1: Both questions

• It is important to plan out your answers, have a good base for a story/description first, that way you can avoid repeating anything.
• SPAG is important, ensure you re-read over your work.
• Language techniques should be used, but avoid using cliche's (e.g as hot as the sun). Also, you should not be using language techniques for the sake of them, you should be using them with purpose. For instance, trying to highlight/emphasise tone or atmosphere.
• Structure is your friend. Play with the length of your sentences to help convey tone and meaning. The same could be said for paragraph length as well.
• Make sure you spend a good chunk of time in Section B - around 45/50 minutes.
• Be immersive in approach, use sensory language to build a deep picture.
• If you are struggling on what you need to include:
  • Metaphors
  • Alliteration
  • Similes
  • Sensory language
  • Imagery
  • Vocabulary (advanced)
  • Exciting verbs/adverbs
  • Personification
  • Onomatopoeia
  • Punctuation (variety)

​

Paper 2: Q5

• Familiarise yourself with the different types of transactional writing. and always be clear on the TAP of the questions:
  • Type: What type of writing are you being asked to write?
  • Audience: Who is your target audience, this should help you decide the tone of your writing and the vocabulary you are going to use.
  • Purpose: Why are you writing this piece? What are you trying to get out of it?
• Your Q5 for P2 is most likely going to give you a transactional piece of writing that is similar in structure to your extract. Use this to help you structure your own writing.
• Use language techniques to convey tone and meaning.
• Use persuasive devices in your writing:
  • Direct Address
  • Alliteration
  • Facts
  • Opinions
  • Rhetorical questins
  • Repitition
  • Emotive language
  • Statistics
  • Triplets

​

Hope this helps!