AQA GCSE English Language specification (8700)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your AQA GCSE English Language exam. It lays out exactly what you need to learn, how you'll be assessed, and what skills the examiners seek. Whether you're working through the course for the first time or revising for your final exams, the specification helps you stay focused and confident in your preparation.
We've included helpful revision tools to support you in putting the specification into practice. Wherever you're starting from, you'll find everything you need to feel prepared, from the official specification to high-quality resources designed to help you succeed.
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In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official AQA GCSE English Language specification, along with a breakdown of key topics, assessment structure, and useful study resources. We've also included links to topic-level guides and revision tools to help you put the specification into practice.
Contents
Disclaimer
This page includes a summary of the official AQA GCSE English Language (8700) specification, provided to support your revision. While we've made every effort to ensure accuracy, Save My Exams is not affiliated with the awarding body.
For the most complete and up-to-date information, we strongly recommend consulting the official AQA specification PDF.
Specification overview
This GCSE English Language specification aims to develop students’ ability to read fluently and write effectively, with confidence in Standard English. Students will engage with a range of 19th, 20th and 21st-century texts across genres, and will write clearly, coherently and accurately. They will explore how writers use language and structure to influence readers, while also developing their own descriptive, narrative, and argumentative writing. Spoken language skills are also developed through formal presentations. The course is designed to inspire and stretch students while being accessible to all abilities, and supports co-teaching with English Literature.
Subject content breakdown
3.1 Scope of study
- Read a wide range of 19th, 20th and 21st-century texts including literature, literary non-fiction and other high-quality writing
- Evaluate texts critically, make comparisons, summarise and synthesise information
- Analyse vocabulary, grammar, form, and structure for impact using accurate terminology
- Compare texts on ideas, perspectives and techniques
- Write for different purposes and audiences using appropriate vocabulary, structure and style
- Use rhetorical devices, organise ideas coherently and maintain consistent point of view
- Present spoken information effectively, respond to feedback, and use Standard English
3.1.1 Critical reading and comprehension
- Identify and interpret explicit/implicit information
- Support views with evidence; evaluate writers’ choices
- Compare texts and summarise main themes
3.1.2 Writing
- Write for different purposes: describe, narrate, instruct, argue, etc.
- Use imaginative, creative and persuasive language
- Maintain coherence, use evidence and quotations
3.1.3 Spoken language
- Plan and present information clearly
- Listen and respond appropriately to feedback
- Use formal Standard English in speech
Assessment structure
Paper 1: Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing
- Section A: Reading a 20th or 21st-century literature fiction text
- Section B: Descriptive or narrative writing
- Written exam: 1 hour 45 mins
- 80 marks; 50% of GCSE
- Question types: 1 short, 2 longer, 1 extended (reading); 1 extended writing
Paper 2: Writers' Viewpoints and Perspectives
- Section A: Reading two linked non-fiction texts (19th and either 20th or 21st-century)
- Section B: Writing to present a viewpoint
- Written exam: 1 hour 45 mins
- 80 marks; 50% of GCSE
- Question types: 1 short, 2 longer, 1 extended (reading); 1 extended writing
Spoken Language Endorsement
- Assessed throughout course by teacher
- Focuses on presenting, responding to questions and using Standard English
- Marked separately as Pass, Merit, Distinction or Not Classified (0% weighting)
Key tips for success
Doing well in your AQA GCSE English Language isn't just about how much you study, but how you study. Here are a few proven tips to help you stay on track
- Start with a clear plan: Break the subject into topics and create a revision schedule that allows enough time for each. Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Focus on understanding, not memorising: Use our revision notes to build a strong foundation in each topic, making sure you actually understand the material.
- Practise regularly: Attempt past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and timing. Mark your answers to see how close you are to full marks.
- Be strategic with your revision: Use exam questions by topic to focus on weaker areas, and flashcards to reinforce important facts and terminology.
- Learn from mistakes: Whether it's from mock exams or practice questions, spend time reviewing what went wrong and why. This helps prevent repeat mistakes in the real exam.
- Stay balanced: Don't forget to take regular breaks, eat well, and get enough sleep, a healthy routine makes revision much more effective.
With the right approach and consistent practice, you'll build confidence and improve your chances of exam success.
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