Paper 1 Question 3: Model Answer (AQA GCSE English Language): Revision Note

03

You now need to think about the whole of the source. 

This text is from the beginning of a novel. 

How has the writer structured the text to interest you as a reader? 

You could write about:

• what the writer focuses your attention on at the beginning of the source

• how and why the writer changes this focus as the source develops

• any other structural features that interest you. 

[8 marks]

Answer

At the beginning of the extract, the writer uses structural techniques to build suspense and anticipation in the reader. The linear structure enables the writer to immerse the reader quickly in the wintry landscape and Zoe's emotional experience. The writer gradually builds the atmosphere and tone of the passage, moving the reader through the description of the snowfall, the cracking cold and the mountain range, enabling the tone to shift from quiet contemplation to one of exhilaration and empowerment as Zoe prepares to ski down the hill. The linear structure also enables the writer to foreshadow future aspects of the narrative. Phrases like “she almost thought she could die in that place, and happily” and “a rehearsal and a pre-echo of death” are introduced sequentially, building suspense and anticipation within the reader for what is about to occur.

As the extract develops, the writer uses simple sentences in order to control the pace of the narrative and introduces dialogue to create a sense of urgency. The writer shifts the focus through the phrase “The rumble became louder”, which creates a sense of foreboding. As the focus changes to the impending danger, the writer uses more simple sentences. For example, “Then her smile iced over” and “Jake was speeding straight towards her”. These shorter sentences help to quicken the pace within the narrative, creating a sense of urgency and intensifying the moment of crisis. Furthermore, the use of dialogue, such as the imperative “‘Hang on to a tree!’” is used to make the outcome of the avalanche uncertain at this point in the narrative, which creates further suspense. 

The writer uses juxtaposition to heighten the impact of the avalanche scene. The initial description of the serene landscape is juxtaposed with the sudden onset of the avalanche which creates a striking contrast, shifting the tone from calm to chaos. The tranquil scenery is suddenly juxtaposed with words such as “roaring”, “rumble” and “great mass of smoke and snow”. The fact that this dangerous event initially captures Zoe's attention, making her smile, adds to the sense of imminent peril as she remains unaware of its severity. Zoe’s initial delight is contrasted with a simple sentence, “Then her smile iced over”. This structural choice underscores the drastic shift in the characters' circumstances, from a pleasurable skiing experience to a fight for survival against the force of the avalanche. 

The contrast between the tranquillity of the opening scene and the perilous and gripping climax creates a dramatic tension that intensifies the reader's engagement.

You should try to avoid making generalised comments about structure. For example, it “interests the reader” or “makes the reader want to read on”. These responses cannot be credited above Level 1. 

The question is inviting you to write about what the writer has chosen to do to create particular effects, so this is what you must focus on in your answer.

Keep referring to what the writer is doing. This will help you to stay focused on structural analysis and will help you to avoid describing or retelling the narrative. 

Focus on analysing why the writer has made certain structural choices and how those choices contribute to the text's overall impact and meaning. Maintain a critical lens that examines the writer's craft, rather than just explaining what’s happening in the extract.

The writer uses juxtaposition to heighten the impact of the avalanche scene. The initial opening description of the serene landscape is juxtaposed with the sudden onset of the avalanche which creates a striking contrast and intensifies the tension within the narrative. This juxtaposition is used to convey the abrupt shift from calm to chaos. The tranquil scenery is suddenly juxtaposed with words such as “roaring”, “rumble” and “great mass of smoke and snow”. The fact that this dangerous event initially captures Zoe's attention, making her smile, adds to the sense of imminent peril as she remains unaware of its severity. Zoe’s initial delight is contrasted with a simple sentence, “Then her smile iced over”. This structural choice underscores the drastic shift in the characters' circumstances, from a pleasurable skiing experience to a fight for survival against the force of the avalanche.

Structural terminology does not need to be complex. 

Using words such as “firstly”, “then” and “finally” can help you to focus your response on the structural shifts in a text, rather than simply recounting the events.