Paper 2, Question 5 is the persuasive / transactional writing task and is worth a hefty 40 marks... so getting this right can make a huge difference to your final grade. This is where you’ll show off your ability to communicate with purpose: to argue, persuade, inform or advise while using language and structure effectively.

Paper 2 might seem like the trickier sibling of Paper 1, but once you know what the exam is really looking for, it feels far less daunting. With the updated specification from summer 2026, a few details have shifted but the core skills you need, such as careful reading, comparing ideas and clear, written explanations, haven’t changed. This guide breaks down Questions 1 - 4, shows how much time to spend on each and gives you practical tips you can actually use.  

Paper 1, Question 5 is where students can show off their writing skills, including creativity, control of language and technical accuracy. It’s worth 40 marks, almost half of the paper, so getting comfortable with this question can make a huge difference to overall grades. From summer 2026, students will still have a choice between two tasks: one narrative (story opening) and one descriptive (based on an image). Both tasks are designed to test the same skills as before

Tackling AQA GCSE English Language Paper 1 might feel confusing at first, especially with the new spec changes coming into effect from summer 2026, but, don't worry, once you know what the paper involves, it’s surprisingly straightforward. This guide explains Questions 1 - 4, gives timing and mark breakdowns and shares top tips that actually work.

Wondering how to help your child with Year 7 English? This blog post breaks down what to expect: from reading and writing tasks to simple ways you can build confidence at home. Whether your child loves English or needs a little nudge, you’ll find practical tips to help them settle into secondary school and strengthen key skills step by step.

Year 8 English is all about stretching skills and building confidence - without the pressure of exams. This post explores what students learn in Year 8 and offers simple, realistic ways parents can help their child with Year 8 English by practising simple reading, writing, grammar and speaking and listening skills at home.

Not sure how to support your child with Year 9 English? This guide explains what to expect this year, how English builds toward GCSEs, and what skills your child will be developing in reading, writing, speaking and analysis. You’ll also find practical tips for parents and easy ways to build confidence at home -whether your child loves English or finds it a challenge.

With multiple set texts, language techniques, and exam strategies to master, GCSE English revision can feel overwhelming.

Encouraging a love of reading in children opens the door to new worlds, fuels their imagination and builds essential literacy skills.

Figurative language is a powerful tool that goes beyond the literal meaning of words and adds richness and depth to language.

This list of top textbooks for AQA GCSE English Language revision have all been used by myself and my students and are highly recommended.

Improved academic results and self-confidence are just some of the benefits of private English tuition. Here's how it can help your child.

Many people believe that you can't revise for GCSE English but, in this article, you'll find tips & strategies to help you do exactly that.

Find out how dyslexia can be identified, what is the impact on a child's learning and what parents can do to support a child with dyslexia.

I'm a private tutor (and former secondary school English teacher) with over 20 years' experience of teaching English to kids aged 9 - 16.

It's natural for teenagers to feel stressed just before their GCSE exams so here are some ways that parents can make it easier for everyone.

Reading is an essential skill for children to develop for many reasons... but here are 10 of the most important ones.

This "Parent's Guide" will explain what you need to know about the GCSE English exams and how you can support your child's preparations.