Paper 1 Technique

Question 1

First Reading:

Answer 1

Read whole thing then think.

• who (speaking)
• what (are they speaking about)
• when (is it set)
• where (is it set)

Question 2

Second Reading:

Answer 2

• highlight key words/phrases
• note changes in tone/pace/focus/mood
• write out AFILM

Question 3

When do you AFILM? What is AFILM?

Answer 3

after second reading

• about - narrative, message, central tension in text
• form - structure
• imagery - metaphor, simile etc.
• language - devices
• mood = atmosphere, emotions in reader

Question 4

After AFILM, what should you do?

Answer 4

write thesis statement

Question 5

What do you do after writing your thesis statement?

Answer 5

• reread text, check thesis statement

- write topic sentences (4/5)

Question 6

How do you write a conclusion?

Answer 6

• draw all points together
• consider what the reader is left with
• consider how specific or universal the theme/ideas are?

Question 7

How do you write an introduction?

Answer 7

1. two or so sentences summarising events, try to note obvious changes (atmosphere/focus)
2. thesis statement

Question 8

How do you write a thesis statement?

Answer 8

1. not always the same, but something along lines of:

“The author explores themes of A and B using C, D, and E (literary techniques) to evoke a mood/atmosphere of F and causing the reader to… (reflect/question) G.”

e.g. “The author explores themes of freedom and predestination using an extended metaphor of ripening fruit, lyrical language, and the control of pace to create a halcyon image of childhood that is subtely undermined by the foreshadowing of death. (sentence got quite long so new sentence). As readers, we question….”