Top 5 GCSEs Mistakes

Mistake #1: Learning Too Many Quotes

Pitfall: Students often try to memorise a long list of quotes for every character or theme.

Fix:
– Focus on 2 to 5 key quotes for each character or theme.
– Choose quotes that allow for varied analysis and can be adapted to different questions.

Mistake #2: Weak Structure for Analysis

Pitfall: Students struggle to dig deeper in their analysis.

Fix:
– Use PETAETACWL: P – Point, E – Evidence (Quote), T – Technique, A – Analysis, E – Effect, T – Theme, A – Author’s Intent, C – Context, W – Wider connections, L – Link.
– This structure ensures detailed, critical responses.

Mistake #3: Thinking You Can’t Revise for Language Questions

Pitfall: Many students think they can’t prepare for language-based questions because they don’t know what text will come up.

How to Avoid It:
– Revise language techniques and practice using sentence starters.
– Create a technique bank to draw from during the exam, e.g., metaphors, alliteration, similes, etc.

Tip: Focus on adapting to any text you’re given and know how to identify and discuss the language techniques effectively.

Mistake #4: Not Pre-Learning Analysis for Quotes

Pitfall: Students often struggle with analysing quotes during the exam because they haven’t prepared flexible, high-level analysis.

How to Avoid It:
– Pre-learn Grade 9-level analysis for a range of key quotes.
– Break down the analysis into simpler elements that can be adapted to different questions and contexts.

Tip: When revising, focus on how the author’s intention is conveyed and how you can link the quote to the wider themes of the text.

Mistake #5: Not Pre-Writing and Learning Creative Writing

Pitfall: Students may feel they need to base their creative writing entirely on the exam’s stimulus, often leading to a lack of preparation.

How to Avoid It:
-Pre-write several creative writing pieces, ensuring they are adaptable to any prompt.
– Focus on strong structure, character development, and language use.

Tip: Adapt your pre-written stories by ensuring they can be tailored to various prompts without feeling forced.