SQA Higher English specification (X824 76)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your SQA Higher English 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 SQA Higher English 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 SQA Higher English (X824 76) 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 SQA specification PDF.
Specification overview
This course in Higher English aims to develop learners’ ability to understand, analyse, evaluate and produce complex and sophisticated language. Through studying a variety of literature and language texts, learners gain insight into the culture and heritage of Scotland and the wider world. They build skills in critical thinking, argumentation, and self-expression. The course encourages the development of voice and identity through reading and writing, promoting personal reflection and appreciation of how language can shape meaning and perspective in different contexts.
Subject content breakdown
Reading for Understanding, Analysis and Evaluation
- Understanding complex ideas in unseen non-fiction texts.
- Analysing language and structure to explain how meaning is created.
- Evaluating writers’ arguments and techniques.
Scottish Text Study
- Study of a Scottish text (poetry, prose, or drama).
- Close reading of an extract and discussion of its wider thematic and stylistic elements.
Critical Essay
- Writing one analytical essay on a different genre from the Scottish text studied.
- Developing ideas and constructing arguments based on literary texts.
Portfolio–writing
- Two independently produced written texts, one broadly creative, one broadly discursive or persuasive.
- Assessed on content, style, structure, and technical accuracy.
Assessment structure
Reading for Understanding, Analysis and Evaluation
- 1 hour 30 minutes
- One question paper with two non-fiction passages and questions on both.
- Worth 30 marks.
Critical Reading
- 1 hour 30 minutes
- Two sections: Scottish Text (20 marks) and Critical Essay (20 marks).
- Closed book assessment.
Portfolio–writing
- Two written texts submitted externally.
- Worth 30 marks (15 marks per piece).
Performance–spoken language (optional)
- Internally assessed and not graded but recorded as Achieved/Not Achieved.
Key tips for success
Doing well in your SQA Higher English 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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