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English Language

12 Dec 2025

186

2 pages

Edexcel English Language Paper Insights 2.0

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Alexis Jones @love.alexis1

Your GCSE English Language exams might seem daunting, but they're actually quite predictable once you know what to... Show more

--- OCR Start ---
English Language Lift 2.0
Paper one-Non-fiction texts -1 hour 55 minutes
Reading Section (1 hour 10 mins)
1) identify four

Paper 1 Non-Fiction Texts (1 hour 55 minutes)

Reading Section (1 hour 10 minutes) tests your ability to understand and analyse non-fiction texts. You'll face six main question types that get progressively harder.

The first questions are straightforward - you'll identify four things from the text (4 marks) and pick out two specific points from given lines (2 marks each). These are your quick wins, so don't overthink them.

Language analysis questions (8 marks) ask how writers use specific words and techniques to interest readers. Focus on the effect on the reader - what emotions or reactions does the language create? Always link your examples back to how they make you feel or think.

Evaluation questions 612marks6-12 marks want your opinion on how successful the writer is. List three clear reasons with evidence from the text. The 12-mark question tests how well you can argue a point using everything you've learned about the text.

Top Tip Spend about 5 minutes per mark on reading questions - this keeps you on track for timing.

Writing Section B (45 minutes) gives you two options to choose from. Write three structured paragraphs and remember this section is worth 40 marks - nearly half your total!

--- OCR Start ---
English Language Lift 2.0
Paper one-Non-fiction texts -1 hour 55 minutes
Reading Section (1 hour 10 mins)
1) identify four

Paper 2 Contemporary Texts (1 hour 55 minutes)

Reading Section A (1 hour 10 minutes) focuses on contemporary texts - usually two texts that you'll need to compare. The questions build up your understanding before asking you to bring both texts together.

Early questions ask you to identify words or phrases that show particular meanings (1 mark) and explain how writers use language with examples and subject terminology. These are similar to Paper 1, so use the same techniques you've practised.

Structure questions examine how writers organise their ideas to interest and engage readers. Look at both language choices and structural techniques like paragraph length, sentence types, or how ideas develop throughout the text.

The big challenge is comparing texts - you'll write a summary showing three ways the texts are similar or different (6 marks), then compare writers' ideas and perspectives (16 marks). Focus on main ideas, points of view, and how writers present their views.

Key Strategy For comparison questions, use connecting phrases like "Similarly..." or "In contrast..." to show you're actively comparing, not just describing each text separately.

Writing Section B (45 minutes) offers two creative options either start with a given opening line or write about a time/person/place (real or imaginary) using two provided images for inspiration.

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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 it’s 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 didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

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 it’s 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 didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

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

 

English Language

186

12 Dec 2025

2 pages

Edexcel English Language Paper Insights 2.0

user profile picture

Alexis Jones

@love.alexis1

Your GCSE English Language exams might seem daunting, but they're actually quite predictable once you know what to expect. Both papers follow clear patterns with specific question types that you can master with the right approach.

--- OCR Start ---
English Language Lift 2.0
Paper one-Non-fiction texts -1 hour 55 minutes
Reading Section (1 hour 10 mins)
1) identify four

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Paper 1: Non-Fiction Texts (1 hour 55 minutes)

Reading Section (1 hour 10 minutes) tests your ability to understand and analyse non-fiction texts. You'll face six main question types that get progressively harder.

The first questions are straightforward - you'll identify four things from the text (4 marks) and pick out two specific points from given lines (2 marks each). These are your quick wins, so don't overthink them.

Language analysis questions (8 marks) ask how writers use specific words and techniques to interest readers. Focus on the effect on the reader - what emotions or reactions does the language create? Always link your examples back to how they make you feel or think.

Evaluation questions 612marks6-12 marks want your opinion on how successful the writer is. List three clear reasons with evidence from the text. The 12-mark question tests how well you can argue a point using everything you've learned about the text.

Top Tip: Spend about 5 minutes per mark on reading questions - this keeps you on track for timing.

Writing Section B (45 minutes) gives you two options to choose from. Write three structured paragraphs and remember this section is worth 40 marks - nearly half your total!

--- OCR Start ---
English Language Lift 2.0
Paper one-Non-fiction texts -1 hour 55 minutes
Reading Section (1 hour 10 mins)
1) identify four

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Paper 2: Contemporary Texts (1 hour 55 minutes)

Reading Section A (1 hour 10 minutes) focuses on contemporary texts - usually two texts that you'll need to compare. The questions build up your understanding before asking you to bring both texts together.

Early questions ask you to identify words or phrases that show particular meanings (1 mark) and explain how writers use language with examples and subject terminology. These are similar to Paper 1, so use the same techniques you've practised.

Structure questions examine how writers organise their ideas to interest and engage readers. Look at both language choices and structural techniques like paragraph length, sentence types, or how ideas develop throughout the text.

The big challenge is comparing texts - you'll write a summary showing three ways the texts are similar or different (6 marks), then compare writers' ideas and perspectives (16 marks). Focus on main ideas, points of view, and how writers present their views.

Key Strategy: For comparison questions, use connecting phrases like "Similarly..." or "In contrast..." to show you're actively comparing, not just describing each text separately.

Writing Section B (45 minutes) offers two creative options: either start with a given opening line or write about a time/person/place (real or imaginary) using two provided images for inspiration.

We thought you’d 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 – all at your fingertips.

4

Smart Tools NEW

Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines

Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay

Most popular content: Evaluation

Most popular content in English Language

Most popular content

English - inspector calls quotes and analysis

Quotes from every main character

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
10

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

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 it’s 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 didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

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 it’s 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 didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

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