Top Tips for AQA GCSE English Language: Paper 1, Questions 1 - 4

Tackling AQA GCSE English Language Paper 1 might seem confusing (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.

What's Paper 1 All About?

Paper 1 focuses on reading and analysing a fiction extract. The first four questions test skills like identifying details, exploring language and evaluating structure.

One thing students often forget is Timing.

As a rough guide, you should look at the marks for each question and try to spend 1 - 1.5 minutes per mark.

Question 1: 4 marks (5 minutes)

Question 2: 8 marks (10 minutes)

Question 3: 8 marks (10 minutes)

Question 4: 20 marks (25 minutes)

If you stick to these timings, you’ll avoid running out of time for the big 20 mark Question 4 (and the 40 mark Question 5 which we'll look at another time!)

Question 1

Multiple Choice

(4 marks, 5 minutes)

From 2026, Question 1 is multiple choice and you'll be asked to tick four boxes to test AO1 skills: spotting details in a text.

Top Tips:

• Read the extract carefully - don't just skim read it.

• Answer each multiple choice item in order.

• Check the text for evidence and avoid guessing the answers too quickly/

• If you're not sure after 5 minutes, leave it and move on to the next question. You can always come back to it later if you have time.

  
  

Question 2

Analyse Language

(8 marks, 10 minutes)

This question hasn’t changed. Students need to explain how the writer’s language creates an effect, using examples like metaphors, similes or powerful word choices.

Top Tips:

• Choose 2 - 3 short but effective quotations to support your points.

• Zoom in on words that create mood or imagery.

• Ask: Why did the writer choose this? What impact does it have on the reader?

  
  

Question 3

Structure and Effects

(8 marks, 10 minutes)

This question now asks about one specific effect, such as tension or mystery, rather than a general “how does it interest the reader” prompt.

Top Tips:

• Look for shifts in focus, changes in sentence length or turning points.

• Explain why these changes create the named effect.

• Examiners like to see your thought process so, even if you're unsure, try and offer a clear statement and interpretation

  
  

Question 4

Evaluate a Statement

(20 marks, 25 minutes)

The evaluation question is now clearer and more direct, making it easier to understand exactly what you’re being asked.

Top Tips:

• Decide if you agree, disagree, or both...and stick with your view.

• Use evidence of both language and structure to support your ideas.

• It’s fine to take a strong stance as long as you explain why.

  
  

Key Things to Remember for AQA GCSE English Language: Paper 1, Questions 1 - 4

• Read the questions carefully and make sure you're answering exactly what’s being asked.

• Use short, precise quotes as they're easier to analyse (and faster to write!)

• Keep an eye on the clock and stick to the recommended timings. If a question is worth 8 marks, don’t spend 25 minutes on it.

• Practise answering questions from past papers as you'll feel much more confident if you're familiar with the format.

Unsure How to Start Your GCSE English Language Revision?

You might like my 30 Day English Language Revision Challenge.

Inside, you'll find 30 quick and simple tasks to help you revise both AQA GCSE English Language, Paper 1 and Paper 2...in less than 30 minutes each!

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About the Author

I’m Catherine: a private tutor, former secondary school English teacher and the founder of English Home Studies.

With over 25 years of teaching experience, I specialise in personalised 1:1 English tuition for students aged 9 to 16 (Year 5 to Year 11) through my EHS Masterclass programme.

Alongside tailored lessons, I create high quality digital and printable revision guides and activity packs to support students’ progress at home.

If you’d like to learn more about my qualifications, read parent and student reviews, or discover how the EHS Masterclass can help your child excel, please explore the rest of my website.