Paper 1 Question 5: Language Techniques (AQA GCSE English Language)

Revision Note

Sam Evans

Written by: Sam Evans

Reviewed by: Kate Lee

Paper 1 Question 5: Language Techniques

Question 5 requires a response which uses the appropriate language style and features for the task. The upper level of the AO5 mark scheme indicates that marks should be given for content that is convincing and crafted, with extensive and ambitious vocabulary with sustained crafting of linguistic devices (see Paper 1 Question 5: Mark Scheme for more details).

You will find an explanation of some of the key linguistic devices and language techniques you could employ in either descriptive or creative writing.

Overview of language techniques

In a piece of descriptive writing, for instance, you will use sensory language to create an effective mood and clear image of the scene you are describing. Whereas, for a question which asks you to write a story, you will employ a range of language techniques, as well as sensory language, to craft character and create drama, tension or interest. Therefore, sensory language is effective when describing a scene, but to craft a character you will need to use other techniques as well, such as dialogue for characterisation or powerful verbs to describe action.  The best answers manipulate these techniques so that they successfully achieve the mood you wish to create.  

In your answer you must:

  • Use language techniques and linguistic devices appropriately for the task

  • Avoid the over-use of a particular technique for a sophisticated response which gets the highest marks

Question 5 tests your ability to adapt your writing for a particular purpose. You will have already analysed a section of fiction writing in Section A, and in Question 5 you are asked to apply this knowledge to your own writing and create a text which is constructed in an appropriate manner. 

When planning your answer to Question 5 it is vital to spend time thinking about your choice of response. This means you should consider if you want to craft a story or describe the scene. It is best to choose the option which suits your style of writing or which you think will be easiest to form ideas around. 

Examiner Tips and Tricks

Remember, Question 5 requires you to use appropriate language for the audience, purpose and form of the writing in the question. Therefore, the best answers will demonstrate a well-planned answer which has considered the most effective ways to use language and structure in your creative or descriptive writing. For example, when describing setting, sensory language is a successful way to describe the mood.

Linguistic devices

When considering your choice of language and the techniques you wish to employ, you must always remember that you are making deliberate choices for effect. It is important to consider the connotations of words and phrases, and how these may add depth to your writing. For example, do your word choices evoke certain emotions or feelings in the reader, or do they reveal aspects of a character’s personality, background or emotions? You should employ the principle of ‘show, not tell’ in order to bring your writing to life in the reader’s mind.

Below you will find a brief explanation of some of the key techniques you could employ in your descriptive or creative writing:

Device or technique

Explanation

Example

Repetition

Of a word, phrase, image or idea. This is much more effective if you think of repetition as a motif that you use throughout your piece of writing

Throughout life, I have learnt to never give up: never give up on my dreams; never give up on my hopes and never give up on myself.

Alliteration

Remember, the words starting with the same consonant sound do not have to be consecutive. Consider the effect you are trying to achieve through the use of alliteration

The swirling mist silently settled on the sleeping town.

Metaphor

A great way to create atmosphere at the start of your writing is by personifying the setting to your story or description

The weary old tree, its gnarled branches outstretched like weathered arms, whispered ancient wisdom to the breeze.

Onomatopoeia

The representation of sound on paper should be more sophisticated than comic-book terms such as “boom”. It is also not helpful to put onomatopoeic words all in capital letters. Consider sound as a way of evoking the senses in order to create atmosphere

The crackling fire whispered its secrets along with the gentle pop and sizzle of the logs as they surrendered to the flames.

Simile

A simple comparison using “like” or “as” should be used sparingly, as this creates more impact

Her smile was as radiant as the early morning sun on a summer’s day.

Imagery

Engages the reader’s senses by using vivid and detailed language to create an image in the reader’s mind

The sun-kissed waves crashed against the golden shore, their frothy white caps glistening in the morning light.

Juxtaposition

Places two contrasting ideas, images or concepts side by side to highlight their differences or create a striking effect

Thе еlеgant ballroom was adornеd with еxquisitе chandеliеrs and finе artwork, whilе thе servants' quartеrs bеlow hеld nothing but barе walls.

Emotive language

Words or phrases that are intentionally used to evoke a strong emotional response in the reader

The devastating aftermath left a trail of destruction, sorrow and misery.

Power verbs

Verbs are doing, action or being words. Power verbs are the deliberate, interesting choice of verb to help the reader picture what you are writing. They can be especially useful for characterisation

The man stooped, bumbling slowly towards the entrance.

Pathetic fallacy

The ability to evoke a specific mood or feeling that reflects a character’s internal or emotional state

The lonely road beckoned him onwards with no end in sight.

Overview

  • An engaging piece of writing effectively employs the relevant language techniques 

  • A convincing response emphasises key ideas using imagery and sensory language 

  • Descriptive language is used to convey the experience of being in a place

  • A story will include other techniques, such as the development of character, with character interactions and dialogue

Did this video help you?

Last updated:

You've read 0 of your 10 free revision notes

Unlock more, it's free!

Join the 100,000+ Students that ❤️ Save My Exams

the (exam) results speak for themselves:

Did this page help you?

Sam Evans

Author: Sam Evans

Expertise: English Content Creator

Sam is a graduate in English Language and Literature, specialising in journalism and the history and varieties of English. Before teaching, Sam had a career in tourism in South Africa and Europe. After training to become a teacher, Sam taught English Language and Literature and Communication and Culture in three outstanding secondary schools across England. Her teaching experience began in nursery schools, where she achieved a qualification in Early Years Foundation education. Sam went on to train in the SEN department of a secondary school, working closely with visually impaired students. From there, she went on to manage KS3 and GCSE English language and literature, as well as leading the Sixth Form curriculum. During this time, Sam trained as an examiner in AQA and iGCSE and has marked GCSE English examinations across a range of specifications. She went on to tutor Business English, English as a Second Language and international GCSE English to students around the world, as well as tutoring A level, GCSE and KS3 students for educational provisions in England. Sam freelances as a ghostwriter on novels, business articles and reports, academic resources and non-fiction books.

Kate Lee

Author: Kate Lee

Expertise: English and Languages Lead

Kate has over 12 years of teaching experience as a Head of English and as a private tutor. Having also worked at the exam board AQA and in educational publishing, she's been writing educational resources to support learners in their exams throughout her career. She's passionate about helping students achieve their potential by developing their literacy and exam skills.