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AQA GCSE English Literature Predicted Papers! 📚✨
Grade 9 essays and analysis 🎥📝.
Jen - Primrose Kitten
April 22, 2025
Smash your revision with our AQA GCSE English Literature Predicted Papers! 📚✨
These are designed to help you feel confident and exam-ready, with a free video walkthrough featuring Grade 9 essays and analysis 🎥📝.
You’ll see exactly how to interpret the questions and structure your answers to maximise your marks 💡📖.
These papers are super helpful for practice – but remember, they’re just predictions, so make sure you still revise everything!
And please don’t forget to look after your mental health during revision season – your wellbeing matters more than any grade 💛🌿.
Table of Contents
AQA GCSE English Literature Paper 1
Paper 1: Shakespeare and the 19th-century novel
📜🕰️
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Marks Available: 64
Worth: 40% of your GCSE English Literature grade
Section A: Shakespeare
You’ll answer one question on the Shakespeare play you studied (e.g. Macbeth, Romeo and Juliet, Much Ado About Nothing).
You’ll be given an extract from the play
The question will ask you to analyse the extract and then relate it to the whole play
Example question: Starting with this extract, explore how Shakespeare presents ambition in Macbeth.
🕰️ Recommended time: 55 minutes
✍️ Spend about 10–15 minutes planning, then the rest writing your essay
📌 Use quotes from both the extract and the rest of the play
Section B: 19th-century novel
You’ll answer one question on the novel you studied (e.g. A Christmas Carol, Frankenstein, Jekyll and Hyde).
Again, you’ll get an extract, and then relate your answer to the whole text
Example question: Starting with this extract, explore how Dickens presents Scrooge’s attitudes to poverty.
🕰️ Recommended time: 50 minutes
🗂️ Same structure – focus on the extract and then zoom out to the whole text
🧠 Think character, themes, context, language, and structure
Top Tips:
✅ Plan before you write
✅ Link your ideas back to the question throughout
✅ Always include context where relevant
✅ Use a range of quotes (even short ones!)
✅ Stay calm and manage your time carefully
Macbeth
How does Shakespeare present Macbeth's ambition?
Explore Macbeth's desire for power and how it drives his actions.
Examine the influence of the witches' prophecies and Lady Macbeth.
Discuss the consequences of unchecked ambition.
How is the theme of guilt portrayed in the play?
Analyse Macbeth's hallucinations and paranoia post-Duncan's murder.
Consider Lady Macbeth's descent into madness.
Reflect on how guilt affects their relationship and decisions.
How does Shakespeare depict the supernatural?
Discuss the role of the witches and their prophecies.
Examine supernatural elements like Banquo's ghost and visions.
Consider how these elements influence characters' actions.
Romeo and Juliet
How is the theme of fate presented in the play?
Explore the concept of "star-crossed lovers."
Analyse how fate influences key events and outcomes.
Discuss characters' beliefs in destiny versus free will.
How does Shakespeare portray the relationship between Romeo and Juliet?
Examine the intensity and impulsiveness of their love.
Consider how their relationship challenges societal norms.
Reflect on how their bond evolves throughout the play.
How is conflict depicted in the play?
Discuss the feud between the Montagues and Capulets.
Analyse how personal conflicts escalate the central tragedy.
Consider the impact of conflict on various relationships.
The Tempest
How does Shakespeare present the theme of power and control?
Examine Prospero's use of magic to dominate others.
Discuss the dynamics between masters and servants.
Consider the relinquishing of power by the play's end.
How is the theme of forgiveness explored in the play?
Analyse Prospero's decision to forgive his enemies.
Discuss the reconciliation between characters.
Reflect on the significance of forgiveness in restoring order.
How does Shakespeare portray the character of Caliban?
Explore Caliban's relationship with Prospero and Miranda.
Discuss themes of colonisation and otherness.
Consider Caliban's complexity as both victim and villain.
The Merchant of Venice
How is the theme of justice versus mercy depicted in the play?
Examine the courtroom scene and Portia's plea for mercy.
Discuss Shylock's insistence on justice and its consequences.
Reflect on the resolution and its moral implications.
How does Shakespeare portray Shylock's character?
Analyse Shylock's motivations and grievances.
Discuss the portrayal of Shylock as both antagonist and sympathetic figure.
Consider the impact of societal prejudice on his actions.
How is the theme of friendship explored in the play?
Examine the bond between Antonio and Bassanio.
Discuss how friendships influence decisions and plot developments.
Reflect on the sacrifices made in the name of friendship.
Much Ado About Nothing
How does Shakespeare present the theme of deception?
Explore instances of both malicious and benign deception.
Discuss the role of deception in the development of relationships.
Consider the consequences of deceit on various characters.
How is the character of Beatrice portrayed in the play?
Analyse Beatrice's wit and independence.
Discuss her views on marriage and gender roles.
Reflect on her character development throughout the play.
How does Shakespeare explore the theme of honour?
Examine the importance of honour in the social context of the play.
Discuss how honour influences characters' actions and reputations.
Consider the impact of false accusations on personal honour.
Julius Caesar
How is the theme of ambition portrayed in the play?
Discuss Caesar's ambition and its perceived threat to Rome.
Analyse how ambition motivates other characters, like Brutus.
Reflect on the consequences of unchecked ambition.
How does Shakespeare depict the concept of betrayal?
Examine Brutus's internal conflict leading to Caesar's assassination.
Discuss the impact of betrayal on personal and political relationships.
Consider the theme's relevance to the play's tragic elements.
How is the theme of persuasion explored in the play?
Analyse the funeral speeches of Brutus and Antony.
Discuss how language is used to sway public opinion.
Reflect on the power of rhetoric in shaping events.
The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde
How does Stevenson present the duality of human nature?
Explore the contrast between Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.
Discuss how the duality reflects Victorian concerns about morality.
How is the theme of secrecy portrayed in the novel?
Examine the use of locked doors and hidden letters.
Consider how secrecy affects the characters' relationships.
How does Stevenson depict the character of Mr. Utterson?
Analyse Utterson's role as a rational and moral figure.
Discuss his significance in uncovering the truth.
A Christmas Carol
How does Dickens present the transformation of Scrooge?
Trace Scrooge's journey from miser to benefactor.
Highlight the influence of the three spirits.
How is the theme of social responsibility explored?
Discuss Dickens's critique of Victorian society.
Examine characters like the Cratchits and Fred.
How does Dickens use the character of Tiny Tim?
Analyse Tiny Tim as a symbol of innocence and hope.
Consider his impact on Scrooge's transformation.
Great Expectations
How is the theme of social class presented in the novel?
Examine Pip's aspirations and their consequences.
Discuss characters like Estella and Magwitch.
How does Dickens portray the character of Miss Havisham?
Analyze her influence on Pip and Estella.
Consider her as a symbol of decay and revenge.
How is the theme of redemption explored?
Trace Pip's moral development.
Highlight acts of forgiveness and personal growth.
Jane Eyre
How does Brontë present Jane's quest for independence?
Discuss Jane's resistance to societal norms.
Examine key moments of self-assertion.
How is the theme of love and passion explored?
Analyse Jane's relationships with Rochester and others.
Consider the balance between emotion and reason.
How does Brontë depict the role of women in society?
Examine the limitations faced by female characters.
Discuss Jane's challenges to traditional gender roles.
Frankenstein
How does Shelley explore the dangers of unchecked ambition?
Analyse Victor's pursuit of knowledge.
Discuss the consequences of playing God.
How is the creature portrayed as both a victim and a villain?
Examine the creature's experiences and actions.
Consider societal rejection and its effects.
How does Shelley present the theme of isolation?
Discuss the isolation of both Victor and the creature.
Analyse how isolation influences their behaviour.
Pride and Prejudice
How does Austen portray the theme of marriage?
Examine various marriages in the novel.
Discuss societal expectations versus personal desires.
How is the character of Elizabeth Bennet presented?
Analyse her wit, intelligence, and independence.
Consider her role as a progressive female protagonist.
How does Austen explore the theme of social class?
Discuss the impact of class on relationships.
Examine characters' attitudes toward wealth and status.
The Sign of Four
How does Conan Doyle present the character of Sherlock Holmes?
Analyse Holmes's methods of deduction.
Discuss his relationship with Watson.
How is the theme of imperialism explored in the novel?
Examine the portrayal of colonial India.
Discuss the significance of the Agra treasure.
How does Conan Doyle create a sense of mystery and suspense?
Analyse narrative techniques and plot structure.
Consider the use of red herrings and revelations.
AQA GCSE English Literature Paper 2
Paper 2: Modern Texts and Poetry
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Marks Available: 96
Worth: 60% of your English Literature GCSE
Section A: Modern Prose or Drama
📝 You’ll answer one essay question on the modern text you studied (e.g. An Inspector Calls, Lord of the Flies, Blood Brothers, Animal Farm, Never Let Me Go, etc.)
No extract is provided – it’s a full-text question
You'll need to support your points with evidence from across the whole text
Example question: How does Priestley present ideas about responsibility in An Inspector Calls?
🕰️ Recommended time: 45 minutes
✍️ Plan briefly, then write a detailed essay with clear analysis and quotes
Section B: Power and Conflict OR Love and Relationships Poetry OR Worlds and Lives (Anthology)
📖 You’ll be given one poem from the cluster and asked to compare it with another of your choice from the same cluster.
Example question: Compare how power is presented in Ozymandias and one other poem.
🕰️ Recommended time: 45 minutes
🔍 Spend time closely reading the named poem before writing
💡 Compare themes, language, structure, and context
Section C: Unseen Poetry
💬 You’ll answer two questions on unseen poems:
First question – analysis of one unseen poem
Second question – comparison with another unseen poem
Example questions:
How does the poet present feelings of isolation in this poem?
In both poems, the poets present strong emotions. Compare how they do this.
🕰️ Recommended time:
First poem: 25 minutes
Comparison: 20 minutes
🖊️ Use PEEL paragraphs (Point, Evidence, Explanation, Link), even for unseen poems
📌 No context needed – focus on the poem’s language, tone, and structure
Top Tips:
✅ Time yourself and stick to it
✅ Always refer back to the question
✅ Plan your answers, even briefly
✅ Use quotes and explain their effect
✅ Don’t panic in the unseen section – focus on what you notice
An Inspector Calls (J.B. Priestley)
How does Priestley explore the consequences of selfishness in the play?
Examine characters like Mr. Birling and Mrs. Birling.
Discuss how their actions impact others, especially Eva Smith.
Consider Priestley's message about social responsibility.
How is the character of Sheila presented and developed?
Analyse Sheila's transformation throughout the play.
Discuss her reactions to the Inspector's revelations.
Consider her role in conveying Priestley's themes.
How does Priestley use the character of the Inspector to convey his ideas?
Explore the Inspector's role as a moral figure.
Discuss his interactions with each family member.
Consider his final speech and its significance.
Blood Brothers (Willy Russell)
How does Russell present the theme of class differences?
Compare the lives of Mickey and Edward.
Discuss how their social backgrounds affect their opportunities.
Analyse the impact of class on their relationship.
How is the character of the Narrator used to convey themes?
Examine the Narrator's role in foreshadowing events.
Discuss how he comments on the action and characters.
Consider his function as a moral commentator.
How does Russell explore the theme of fate and superstition?
Analyse the significance of Mrs. Lyons' superstitions.
Discuss how fate influences the characters' lives.
Consider the role of the Narrator in emphasising fate.
Lord of the Flies (William Golding)
How does Golding present the theme of civilisation versus savagery?
Compare the leadership styles of Ralph and Jack.
Discuss the descent into savagery among the boys.
Analyse symbols like the conch and the "Lord of the Flies."
How is the character of Simon portrayed in the novel?
Examine Simon's actions and insights.
Discuss his role as a moral compass.
Consider the significance of his death.
How does Golding use setting to enhance the novel's themes?
Analyse the island as a microcosm of society.
Discuss how different locations symbolise aspects of civilisation and savagery.
Consider the impact of the natural environment on the boys' behaviour.
Telling Tales (AQA Anthology)
How is the theme of identity explored in the anthology?
Examine stories that focus on personal or cultural identity.
Discuss how characters navigate their sense of self.
Consider the use of narrative voice and perspective.
How do the stories portray relationships between generations?
Analyse interactions between characters of different ages.
Discuss themes of tradition, conflict, and understanding.
Consider how generational differences impact the narratives.
How is the theme of change presented across the stories?
Identify stories where characters undergo significant change.
Discuss the catalysts for change and their effects.
Analyse how change is depicted through language and structure.
Animal Farm (George Orwell)
How does Orwell explore the theme of power and corruption?
Examine Napoleon's rise to power.
Discuss how the pigs manipulate language and rules.
Analyse the consequences for the other animals.
How is propaganda used in the novel?
Analyse Squealer's role in spreading propaganda.
Discuss the manipulation of truth and information.
Consider the impact on the animals' beliefs and actions.
How does Orwell present the theme of betrayal?
Examine the treatment of Boxer.
Discuss the changing commandments.
Analyse the betrayal of the revolution's original ideals.
Anita and Me (Meera Syal)
How does Syal explore cultural identity in the novel?
Examine Meena's experiences as a British-Indian girl.
Discuss the challenges of balancing two cultures.
Analyse how cultural identity shapes Meena's worldview.
How is the friendship between Meena and Anita portrayed?
Discuss the dynamics of their relationship.
Examine moments of conflict and understanding.
Consider how their friendship influences Meena's growth.
How does the novel address themes of racism and prejudice?
Analyse incidents that highlight racial tensions.
Discuss characters' attitudes and behaviours.
Consider the impact on Meena and her family.
Pigeon English (Stephen Kelman)
How does Kelman present the challenges of urban life?
Examine the environment Harri navigates.
Discuss themes of violence, poverty, and community.
Analyse how these challenges affect Harri's experiences.
How is childhood innocence presented in the novel?
Examine Harri's narration and perspective.
Discuss how he interprets adult situations with naivety.
Analyse how his innocence contrasts with the violence around him.
How does Kelman explore the theme of violence?
Look at the murder and gang presence in Harri’s environment.
Discuss how violence becomes a part of everyday life.
Consider how Harri is both affected by and drawn toward violence.
My Name is Leon (Kit de Waal)
How is the theme of identity explored in the novel?
Examine how Leon struggles with his mixed heritage and family separation.
Discuss the impact of foster care and social services on his sense of self.
Consider the symbolism of Leon's bike and superhero references.
How does the novel portray family and belonging?
Analyse Leon’s bond with Jake and the pain of being separated.
Explore the importance of chosen family (e.g., Maureen, Tufty).
Reflect on how Leon seeks connection and love.
How does Kit de Waal present social injustice?
Discuss how the care system and racism are portrayed.
Examine how adult institutions fail children like Leon.
Analyse moments of kindness and resistance.
DNA (Dennis Kelly)
How does Kelly explore the theme of guilt and responsibility?
Look at how different characters deal with the aftermath of Adam's "death."
Contrast Phil's calm control with others' panic or denial.
Discuss how responsibility is shifted and shared (or not).
How is the character of Phil presented?
Examine his leadership and silence.
Discuss how he manipulates others and avoids consequences.
Consider the significance of his final scenes.
How does Kelly show the effects of peer pressure?
Analyse how the group dynamics influence individual choices.
Look at characters like Brian and Leah.
Explore how fear of exclusion drives harmful actions.
A Taste of Honey (Sheila Delaney)
How does Delaney present the relationship between Jo and Helen?
Examine their arguments and moments of intimacy.
Discuss the generational and emotional tensions.
Consider how their relationship changes throughout the play.
How is the theme of loneliness explored?
Look at Jo's need for love and connection.
Examine characters like Geoffrey and Peter as responses to loneliness.
Reflect on the lack of support systems.
How does the play challenge gender roles and expectations?
Examine Jo’s independence and Helen’s lifestyle.
Discuss how Geoffrey's role disrupts traditional masculinity.
Analyse how women navigate limited choices.
Princess & The Hustler (Chinonyerem Odimba)
How is the impact of racism shown in the play?
Discuss how the Bristol Bus Boycott frames the story.
Examine how racism affects relationships and identity.
Analyse Princess's and her family's experiences.
How does Odimba portray family dynamics?
Explore tensions between Princess, her mother, and her father (the Hustler).
Discuss how family influences Princess’s growth.
Consider moments of unity and conflict.
How is the theme of hope explored?
Look at Princess’s dreams and imagination.
Examine how characters hold onto optimism despite injustice.
Reflect on the ending and what it suggests.
Leave Taking (Winsome Pinnock)
How does Pinnock explore generational conflict?
Examine Enid’s relationship with her daughters.
Discuss differences in cultural identity and expectations.
Analyse how past trauma influences the present.
How is the theme of identity portrayed?
Look at the daughters’ struggle with their dual heritage.
Discuss how Enid clings to Caribbean traditions.
Reflect on the characters' need for belonging.
How does the play depict the immigrant experience?
Examine Enid’s sacrifices and challenges.
Discuss racism, isolation, and the search for home.
Consider how immigration shapes family roles and aspirations.