Writing flashcards

Topic 2: Writing

How is 1123 Paper 2 Writing set out?

2 hours, 50 marks, 50% of the qualification. 80% Writing (AO2) and 20% Reading (AO1), the mirror of Paper 1. Section A Directed Writing and Section B Composition, 25 marks each.

What do the Writing objectives W1 to W5 reward?

W1 articulating experience, thought and imagination; W2 organising ideas for deliberate effect; W3 a range of vocabulary and sentence structures; W4 register appropriate to context; W5 accurate spelling, punctuation and grammar.

What does Paper 2 Section A (Directed Writing) require?

One compulsory task: use one or two source texts (about 400–450 words) to write a speech, email, report, letter or article of about 250–350 words for a set audience and purpose.

How are the 25 Directed Writing marks split?

15 for writing (all of W1–W5) and 10 for reading (R3, R5): how well you analyse, evaluate and develop the source material, not merely refer to it.

What is the most common way to lose marks in Directed Writing?

Writing a general opinion essay instead of grounding every point in the given texts. Draw at least one specific point from each source.

What does Paper 2 Section B (Composition) require?

One piece of about 350–450 words chosen from four titles: two descriptive and two narrative. No source text; all 25 marks are for writing.

Why is register (W4) not assessed in the Composition?

There is no set audience or format, so only W1, W2, W3 and W5 are assessed.

Descriptive or narrative composition: what is the difference?

Descriptive writing builds a vivid, controlled picture of a person, place or situation with no plot needed. Narrative writing tells connected events with a beginning, development and resolution or turning point.

What conventions does a formal letter need?

An appropriate greeting and sign-off, a clear opening stating the purpose, paragraphs for each point, a register suited to the recipient, and a closing that states what you want to happen next.

What conventions does a speech need?

Direct address to the audience, a strong opening, signposting so listeners can follow, rhetorical devices such as questions and patterns of three, and a memorable close.

What is the effect of a rhetorical question in persuasive writing?

It involves the reader or listener by making them answer silently, usually with the answer the writer wants.

Which accuracy errors cost W5 marks most often?

Subject–verb agreement, inconsistent tense, comma splices (sentences joined only by a comma) and apostrophes confused between possession and plurals.