If you’re sitting the AQA GCSE English Language exam, there have been some recent changes to the exam format. But don’t worry—these updates will not affect or undo the preparation you’ve already done.

The exam board has stated that these adjustments have been made to “increase the clarity of our exam papers”—in other words, to make the questions easier to understand and easier for examiners to mark.

There are several minor changes to the papers, but I’ve broken down the most relevant ones for you here:

📄 Paper 1 – What’s Changing?
✅ Question 1

Old Format: You were asked to list four things.
New Format: This is now a tick-box exercise—you’ll be given statements and asked to tick the correct ones.
This should be quicker and clearer to complete!

✏️ Question 2

No change.
You’ll still be asked to analyse the writer’s use of language.

📚 Question 3

Old Format:
“How does the writer use structure to interest the reader?”

New Format:
“How does the writer use structure to create [a specific effect]—for example, suspense or tension.

This new version focuses on a single effect, making the question more specific and helping you focus your answer.
💬 Need Help or Extra Support?
If you’d like personalised help with answering these questions, improving your exam technique, or simply want to feel more confident about passing the exam, don’t hesitate to reach out!

📧 Email: learningwithchantelle@gmail.com

📩 Or fill out the contact form on the website.