top of page
Revision and Support
H.... has met expectations for all his SATS - except SPAG in which he has a scaled score of 112 so achieved a greater depth! Apparently he’s the first pupil at Rusper to have exceeded expectations in SPAG!
Thank you for all you efforts supporting & encouraging him. Xx (Mrs. R. Rusper)
Revision and Support
We have included in this section some tips and advice for revision as well as some articles and essays that we have written relating to English Language and Literature.
​
​
How to Analyse Quotes in GCSE Language and Literature.
​
One of the most challenging aspects of GCSE English is understanding how to 'explode' a quote effectively. I find students are adept at spotting a great quote but then lose marks when analysing the same quote.
English Literature requires more than just repeating the words inside the quote in a different form; we have to get inside the quotation and dig around. This requires the student to understand how the writer uses language to create the meaning.
​
1 Look Closely at the language.
Start by identifying a word or a phrase that stands out. The words used by writers are chosen carefully and that adjective that we gloss over could reveal a lot about a character or a theme.
For example if the writer uses 'dark' or 'cold' it may be pathetic fallacy, suggesting a feeling of despair, or impending doom, or a feeling of tension.
​
2. Consider the effect on the reader.
When we have the word or phrase, we then look at what the writer might have wanted the reader to experience. This is the point where the answer becomes analysis not repetition.
Returning to our 'dark' or 'cold' example the writer could be endeavouring to create a feeling in the reader of anticipation or fear - which would encourage, perhaps faster reading or deeper immersion into the text.
​
3. Link the idea to the wider text.
The final point is to connect th idea to the character, theme or the situation we are reading about. This is the link to the bigger picture.
Think about:
a. What the quote reveals about the character.
b. Can the quotation be linked to a theme.
c. Does it reflect what is happening in the storyline.
​
It is important to note that you do not need to analyse every single aspect of the quotation you have chosen. Often it is better to choose a couple of words ; a powerful verb, or strong adjective, or language technique to deepen the analysis and improve grades.
​
Building Confidence with GCSE analysis.
To become better at this we need to remember we have to practice everything to get better at it. Footballers don't just go and play for Real Madrid the moment they get a ball at their feet, it takes practice, time and a commitment to success.
By slowing down, looking at the choices, thinking about the effects we can achieve excellent responses in class and exams.
​
If you would like support developing these skills - individual tuition can help students practise analysis and responses in a clear and structured way. With the right guidance and regular practice, students can move beyond basic answers and develop confident, thoughtful responses to literature and language.
​
​
​
bottom of page