Want to know everything about AQA GCSE English Language? This... Show more
Sociology
BiologySign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
933
โข
Updated Mar 23, 2026
โข
Comprehensive AQA English Language Specification Guide
1 / 10
Specification Cover
This is the official AQA GCSE English Language specification (course code 8700) that your teachers use to plan your lessons and prepare you for exams. It covers everything you need to know about the course you'll be studying from Year 10 onwards.
The specification has been updated to version 1.5 as of October 2021, so it contains the most current information about your GCSE course.
Quick Tip: Your teachers refer to this document constantly - it's like the rulebook for your entire English Language GCSE!
Contents Overview
The specification is organised into clear sections that cover every aspect of your GCSE English Language course. You'll find details about the subject content you'll study, how you'll be assessed, and all the administrative bits your school needs to know.
The main sections include subject content, assessment details, and information about non-exam assessment (your speaking and listening component). There's also loads of info about support resources available to help you succeed.
Remember: This contents page is your roadmap - each section builds up to give you the complete picture of your GCSE journey.
Why Choose AQA English Language
AQA has designed this English Language GCSE to be engaging and accessible for students of all abilities. You'll develop essential skills in reading, understanding, and analysing texts from the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries, plus learn to write clearly and accurately.
The course features two equally-balanced papers with distinct identities. Paper 1 focuses on creative reading and writing, exploring how writers use narrative techniques. Paper 2 examines different writers' viewpoints and perspectives on similar topics over time.
The skills-based approach means questions guide you from easier tasks to more extended responses, helping build your confidence. Plus, if you're taking English Literature too, the skills transfer brilliantly between both subjects.
Confidence Boost: The course is designed to take you on a learning journey, starting with manageable tasks and building up your skills step by step.
Support and Resources
AQA provides tons of resources to help you succeed in English Language. These include reading support booklets with texts from different centuries, digital anthologies, and speaking and listening materials that develop skills useful beyond just your GCSE.
You'll have access to marked student responses with examiner comments, past papers, and specimen papers to practise with. The Enhanced Results Analysis tool helps identify areas where you can improve your performance.
Professional development courses are available for your teachers, covering everything from basic teaching skills to leadership training. This ensures your teachers stay up-to-date with the latest methods and requirements.
Top Tip: Make the most of past papers and examiner commentaries - they're goldmines for understanding exactly what examiners are looking for.
Assessment Structure Overview
Your GCSE English Language consists of three main components that you must complete for the full qualification. All exam texts will be unseen, meaning you won't have studied them beforehand - this tests your ability to analyse any text you encounter.
Paper 1: Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing lasts 1 hour 45 minutes and is worth 50% of your GCSE. Section A focuses on reading one literature fiction text, while Section B involves descriptive or narrative writing.
The reading section (40 marks) includes one short question worth 4 marks, two longer questions worth 8 marks each, and one extended 20-mark question. The writing section is also worth 40 marks, with one extended writing task marked for both content (24 marks) and technical accuracy (16 marks).
Exam Strategy: The questions are designed to take you on a journey from easier to more challenging tasks, so build your confidence with the early questions.
Paper 2 and Speaking Assessment
Paper 2: Writers' Viewpoints and Perspectives also lasts 1 hour 45 minutes and makes up the other 50% of your GCSE. You'll read two linked texts - one non-fiction and one literary non-fiction - then complete writing tasks that present your own viewpoint.
The reading questions include one 4-mark short question, two longer questions (8 and 12 marks), and one extended 16-mark question. Like Paper 1, the writing section is worth 40 marks with the same split between content and technical accuracy.
Your Spoken Language assessment is completed throughout the course and marked by your teacher. It covers presenting skills, responding to questions, and using Standard English. While it doesn't count towards your GCSE grade, you'll receive a separate endorsement on your certificate.
Speaking Skills: Don't underestimate the speaking component - these communication skills will benefit you in future education and employment.
We thought youโd never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help โ all at your fingertips.
Most popular content: Evaluation
GCSE Language Paper 1 Guide
Master the structure and timing for each question in the GCSE Language Paper 1. This comprehensive guide covers essential strategies for answering questions 1-4, including tips on using quotations, analyzing language and structure, and effective evaluation techniques. Ideal for exam preparation and practice.
English Language9
Most popular content in English Language
Most popular content
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us โ and so will you.
4.6/5
App Store
4.7/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because itโs too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโt even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโm sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE Knowunity AI. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐๐๐ฒ๐ค๐โจ๐๐ฎ
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because itโs too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโt even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโm sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE Knowunity AI. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐๐๐ฒ๐ค๐โจ๐๐ฎ
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Comprehensive AQA English Language Specification Guide
Want to know everything about AQA GCSE English Language? This specification breaks down exactly what you'll study, how you'll be assessed, and what support is available to help you succeed.
Specification Cover
This is the official AQA GCSE English Language specification (course code 8700) that your teachers use to plan your lessons and prepare you for exams. It covers everything you need to know about the course you'll be studying from Year 10 onwards.
The specification has been updated to version 1.5 as of October 2021, so it contains the most current information about your GCSE course.
Quick Tip: Your teachers refer to this document constantly - it's like the rulebook for your entire English Language GCSE!
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
Contents Overview
The specification is organised into clear sections that cover every aspect of your GCSE English Language course. You'll find details about the subject content you'll study, how you'll be assessed, and all the administrative bits your school needs to know.
The main sections include subject content, assessment details, and information about non-exam assessment (your speaking and listening component). There's also loads of info about support resources available to help you succeed.
Remember: This contents page is your roadmap - each section builds up to give you the complete picture of your GCSE journey.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
Why Choose AQA English Language
AQA has designed this English Language GCSE to be engaging and accessible for students of all abilities. You'll develop essential skills in reading, understanding, and analysing texts from the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries, plus learn to write clearly and accurately.
The course features two equally-balanced papers with distinct identities. Paper 1 focuses on creative reading and writing, exploring how writers use narrative techniques. Paper 2 examines different writers' viewpoints and perspectives on similar topics over time.
The skills-based approach means questions guide you from easier tasks to more extended responses, helping build your confidence. Plus, if you're taking English Literature too, the skills transfer brilliantly between both subjects.
Confidence Boost: The course is designed to take you on a learning journey, starting with manageable tasks and building up your skills step by step.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
Support and Resources
AQA provides tons of resources to help you succeed in English Language. These include reading support booklets with texts from different centuries, digital anthologies, and speaking and listening materials that develop skills useful beyond just your GCSE.
You'll have access to marked student responses with examiner comments, past papers, and specimen papers to practise with. The Enhanced Results Analysis tool helps identify areas where you can improve your performance.
Professional development courses are available for your teachers, covering everything from basic teaching skills to leadership training. This ensures your teachers stay up-to-date with the latest methods and requirements.
Top Tip: Make the most of past papers and examiner commentaries - they're goldmines for understanding exactly what examiners are looking for.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
Assessment Structure Overview
Your GCSE English Language consists of three main components that you must complete for the full qualification. All exam texts will be unseen, meaning you won't have studied them beforehand - this tests your ability to analyse any text you encounter.
Paper 1: Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing lasts 1 hour 45 minutes and is worth 50% of your GCSE. Section A focuses on reading one literature fiction text, while Section B involves descriptive or narrative writing.
The reading section (40 marks) includes one short question worth 4 marks, two longer questions worth 8 marks each, and one extended 20-mark question. The writing section is also worth 40 marks, with one extended writing task marked for both content (24 marks) and technical accuracy (16 marks).
Exam Strategy: The questions are designed to take you on a journey from easier to more challenging tasks, so build your confidence with the early questions.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
Paper 2 and Speaking Assessment
Paper 2: Writers' Viewpoints and Perspectives also lasts 1 hour 45 minutes and makes up the other 50% of your GCSE. You'll read two linked texts - one non-fiction and one literary non-fiction - then complete writing tasks that present your own viewpoint.
The reading questions include one 4-mark short question, two longer questions (8 and 12 marks), and one extended 16-mark question. Like Paper 1, the writing section is worth 40 marks with the same split between content and technical accuracy.
Your Spoken Language assessment is completed throughout the course and marked by your teacher. It covers presenting skills, responding to questions, and using Standard English. While it doesn't count towards your GCSE grade, you'll receive a separate endorsement on your certificate.
Speaking Skills: Don't underestimate the speaking component - these communication skills will benefit you in future education and employment.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
We thought youโd never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help โ all at your fingertips.
11
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: โ 50+ Practice Questions โ Interactive Flashcards โ Full Mock Exam โ Essay Outlines
Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay
Most popular content: Evaluation
GCSE Language Paper 1 Guide
Master the structure and timing for each question in the GCSE Language Paper 1. This comprehensive guide covers essential strategies for answering questions 1-4, including tips on using quotations, analyzing language and structure, and effective evaluation techniques. Ideal for exam preparation and practice.
English Language9
Most popular content in English Language
Most popular content
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us โ and so will you.
4.6/5
App Store
4.7/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because itโs too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโt even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโm sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE Knowunity AI. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐๐๐ฒ๐ค๐โจ๐๐ฎ
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because itโs too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโt even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโm sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE Knowunity AI. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐๐๐ฒ๐ค๐โจ๐๐ฎ
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user