Paper 2 – Writing (AS Level) flashcards

Topic 2: Paper 2 – Writing

How is 9093 Paper 2 Writing set out?

2 hours, 50 marks: 50% of the AS and 25% of the A Level. Section A (compulsory, 25 marks) and Section B (one from three, 25 marks).

What does Paper 2 Section A part (a) require?

A shorter piece of at most 400 words, written to a specified form, audience and purpose (such as a leaflet, letter or speech). 15 marks.

What does Paper 2 Section A part (b) require?

A reflective commentary explaining how your linguistic choices in part (a) fulfil the brief. 10 marks; the syllabus sets no word limit.

How should each point in a reflective commentary be built?

Identify the choice, quote it from your own text, and explain its effect in relation to audience and purpose: the same pattern you use to analyse someone else's text.

What does Paper 2 Section B require?

One extended piece of 600–900 words, chosen from three questions.

Which three categories does Paper 2 Section B always offer?

Imaginative/descriptive, discursive/argumentative, and review/critical. The categories are fixed; only the topic within each changes between series.

What makes a strong imaginative or descriptive piece?

Precise sensory detail, a controlled narrative voice, and a small number of developed images rather than many undeveloped ones.

What makes a strong discursive or argumentative piece?

It is genuinely balanced: it weighs more than one side before reaching a considered conclusion, rather than being one-sided in disguise.

What makes a strong review or critical piece?

A consistent evaluative voice supported by specific, concrete detail, not vague praise or criticism.

What is the most common mistake in the reflective commentary?

Writing it as a second essay about the topic instead of analysing the language choices made in your own piece.