Creative Writing Masterclass – originally held on 4th January 2025 This engaging Masterclass is designed to prepare students for the creative writing section of the GCSE exam. During the session, we covered: How to structure a narrative effectively. The differences between linear and non-linear narratives. Techniques for crafting an engaging opening. Examples of Grade 8/9 answers to inspire and guide students. By purchasing this Masterclass, your child will also receive the unique benefit of having their work marked by me, with detailed feedback to help them improve and refine their writing skills.
Are you stuck at using Point–Evidence–Explanation and wondering why it’s not enough to reach the top grades? This masterclass takes you step-by-step through what examiners are really looking for – and how to push your analysis to the next level. Using an extract from The Book Thief, I model a high-level response and break down the mark scheme so students can see exactly what’s needed to hit the higher bands. Students then produce their own independent work, which is personally marked by me – a GCSE examiner – with clear, actionable feedback. What’s included: A workbook packed with tasks and tips The full PowerPoint used in the session The recorded Zoom masterclass (recorded in summer) A checklist for high-level analysis to use in future work By the end, students will understand precisely how to move beyond PEE and write analysis that really impresses the examiner.
If your child is reading extracts but not knowing what to do with them, this masterclass will transform how they approach the exam. In this examiner-led masterclass, I teach students exactly how to annotate effectively under exam conditions. This is a key skill that directly impacts their ability to analyse, select evidence, and write high-level responses. This is not about passive highlighting. This is about thinking like an examiner. What this masterclass covers: ✔️ The difference between highlighting and annotating and why most students are doing it wrong ✔️ A clear, step-by-step method for annotating unseen extracts in the exam ✔️ How to highlight strategically so students focus only on what matters ✔️ How to break down the question so they know exactly what to look for ✔️ Live modelling using: • An extract from the IGCSE Non-Fiction Anthology • A real AQA GCSE English Language past paper These extracts are also ideal practice for all exam boards, as they function as unseen texts. What students will be able to do after this session: • Approach any unseen extract with confidence • Identify key words, methods, and structural features quickly • Avoid over-highlighting and instead annotate with purpose • Link their annotations directly to exam questions • Build stronger, more focused analytical responses What’s included: • Full recording of the live masterclass • A structured student workbook to follow along • Built-in pause points for independent practice • Bonus revision material on: • Language techniques • Structural methods • Space for students to annotate, reflect, and revise independently