GCSE English Language Mock Exam – Paper 1: Reading and Writing (based on The Woman in Black by Susan Hill) This complete mock exam paper is designed to help GCSE students practise and build confidence in both reading and writing skills for English Language Paper 1. Section A focuses on reading and includes questions that test: How the writer uses language How the writer uses structure A 20-mark evaluate question, requiring students to explore how successfully the writer achieves specific effects All reading questions are based on a carefully chosen extract from The Woman in Black by Susan Hill – a rich, atmospheric text ideal for practising analytical and evaluative skills. Section B offers a choice of two creative writing prompts, encouraging students to either write a narrative or describe a scene inspired by the reading extract. A handy student-friendly marking guide is included, enabling learners to self-assess their work, set clear targets for improvement, and reflect on their progress. Perfect for independent revision, tutor-led sessions, or classroom use.
This mock-style exam paper is designed to mirror the skills tested in a real GCSE English Language exam. Using an extract from The Book Thief, it challenges students to: Identify and interpret key information from the text Analyse the writer’s use of language and its effects Explore how structural choices shape meaning and engage the reader Develop and organise ideas in extended responses To support progress, this resource also includes: ✅ A bonus student success criteria checklist to help learners understand what examiners are looking for ✅ A clear, user-friendly mark scheme for self-assessment or teacher feedback Perfect for revision, exam preparation, or as a classroom/homework activity.
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