Paper 1: How to Answer Question 4

What is it asking?

• this question requires you to evaluate an opinion and analyse language
• quite simply the skills from Q2 + Q3 + evaluation = Q4

Timings

Marks	Timings
[20]	25-30 minutes

Structure

• the structure is very similar to one used in your English Literature exams, as you use the same evaluative skills!
• Aim to write 3-4 paragraphs, with one paragraph arguing against the statement

Paragraph	Explanation	Sentence starters
1 • agree	focusing on one point as to why you agree with the statement	To a certain extent I agree that…because…
2 • agree	focusing on a new point as to why you agree with the statement	I certainly agree that…
3 • disagree	considering an alternative perspective	Alternatively however, some may put forth the notion that…
4 • agree	ultimately, expressing why you still agree with the statement despite prior criticism	Ultimately, the statement holds true because…

Top tips:

• Full marks are often awarded to students who speak about more than one character / multiple elements of the question
• Construct an argument - so coming to an objective conclusion is crucial (e.g. Despite criticism, I ultimately agree with the statement because…)