Paper 1 Question 5: Narrative Writing

What is it asking?

This includes a plot and has a clear story using action. This must also include descriptive detail. However, you should also include some action.

Timings

Marks	Timings
Break down: AO5 • [24] AO6 • [16] Total: [40]	35-40 minutes

Structure

There is no set structure for Q5, but our advice is to:

write at least 3 paragraphs
keep a checklist on the side of a range of punctuation to use e.g. ! ? "" … () : ; -
- cross them off once you've used each piece of punctuation!

infoNote

Exam tip: PLAN BEFORE YOU WRITE. Spending 3-5 minutes planning will ensure that you are not waffling when you write. Think about what you want to mention in the beginning, middle and end, and make sure to stick to the plan!

Technique	Example
Simile	his eyes were like shining stars
Adjectives	blue
List of three	stop, look and listen
Senses - (see, hear, touch, taste, smell)	the scent of freshly baked bread wafted through the air
Alliteration	severe situation

Top tips:

Plan your response
Vary sentence length
Vary paragraph length
Interpret the question in a creative way
Play to the senses
Watch the time
Get inspiration from somewhere
Have stock sentences in your arsenal

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