English Literature Exam board and code: AQA 8702 Level: GCSE Grading in 2017 : 9 ‐ 1 Assessment structure: By terminal exam only; no tier; closed book exam. Paper 1: 40% Shakespeare and the 19th century novel (1 hour 45 minutes) Exam date: 22nd May 2017 Paper 2: 60% Modern texts and Poetry (2 hours 15 minutes) Exam date: 26th May 2017 Preparation for the exams: Paper 1: Section A: Macbeth (34 marks); one question – write in detail about an extract from the play (provided) and then write about the play as a whole. Section B: A Christmas Carol (30 marks); one question ‐ write in detail about an extract from the novel (provided) and then write about the play as a whole. Paper 2: Section A: Animal Farm (34 marks); one essay question from a choice of two. Section B: Poetry (30 marks); one comparative question on one named poem printed on the paper and one other poem from the Anthology – Power and Conflict. Section C: Unseen Poetry (32 marks); one question on an unseen poem and one question comparing this poem with a second unseen poem. Textbooks and on‐line resources that support revision:  CGP AQA GCSE Poetry Anthology: Power and Conflict  York Notes Study Guides: Macbeth, A Christmas Carol, Animal Farm  Pixl Lit App Top tips for success!  Reading is key! Each text should be read at least twice.  Organisation is essential – keep notes and worksheets in individual files for each of the texts.  Create quotation banks on flashcards.  Identify different themes by highlighting quotations in different colours – remember to make a key!  Test your knowledge by creating posters on themes, characters, events.  Engage fully in group discussions as this will help to cement your learning.