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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? Find out reading and writing tasks and ways you can build confidence at home.

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.

Romeo and Juliet is perhaps Shakespeare’s most famous play...or at least the one most people have heard of. It’s a classic love story, although calling it "just a love story" feels a bit oversimplified. It’s also about family feuds, fate, teenage rebellion and the chaos that happens when you mix impulsive decisions with deep emotions. Quite relatable, really, even though it’s more than 400 years old.

This guide will help you prepare effectively for your GCSE English Literature exam by clearly explaining the plot, themes and Shakespeare’s language, along with practical and engaging revision strategies.

This guide will help you to prepare for your GCSE English Literature exam on "Macbeth" by explaining exactly what you need to know about the plot, themes and language of this play and suggesting practical revision strategies.

Charles Dickens' timeless novella, "A Christmas Carol," is not just a classic, festive tale but a profound exploration of human nature.

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.

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

"A Parent's Guide to English Tuition" explains what private tuition involves, how children can benefit and how to get started.