Assessment Objectives (AOs)
| AO | What AQA Are Assessing |
|---|---|
| AO1 | Clear, coherent argument using accurate literary terminology and well-selected quotations. |
| AO2 | Analysis of how writers use language, form and structure to shape meanings. |
| AO3 | Understanding of the significance of context (social, historical, literary). |
| AO4 | Connections and comparisons between texts. |
| AO5 | Different interpretations of texts. |
Not all AOs are assessed in every question.
Paper 1
Total time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Total marks: 75
Weighting: 40% of A-level
| Section | What you do | Marks | AOs | Suggested Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Section 1 Shakespeare |
One question on the Shakespeare set text (extract-based, then you connect to elsewhere in the play). | 25 | AO1, AO2, AO3, AO5 | ~50 mins |
| Section 2 Unseen Poetry |
One question comparing two unseen poems (single comparative response). | 25 | AO1, AO2, AO4 | ~45 mins |
| Section 3 Two studied texts |
One comparative question on the two set texts you have studied for the paper. | 25 | AO1, AO2, AO3, AO4 | ~45 mins |
This page reflects the structure you specified: Section 1 Shakespeare, Section 2 one unseen comparison question, Section 3 one question comparing two studied texts.
What to prioritise by section
- Section 1 (Shakespeare): AO2 and AO5 drive top marks. AO3 is used only when it directly sharpens the reading.
- Section 2 (Unseen): It is a skills test: AO1 + AO2, and AO4 through comparison. No forced context.
- Section 3 (Two texts): Comparison is structural, not bolt-on. Keep returning to the question and controlling the argument.