English
National 5
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View topicsNational 5 English is assessed by two exam papers plus a coursework portfolio and a spoken language component. Paper 1 is Reading for Understanding, Analysis and Evaluation on an unseen non-fiction text; Paper 2 is Critical Reading, covering a Scottish set text and a critical essay.
The portfolio contains two pieces of writing (one broadly creative, one broadly discursive) drafted and redrafted, and worth 30% of the final grade. The spoken language element is assessed internally on a pass/fail basis.
Critical essay technique is the highest-value thing to get right: a clear line of argument, well-chosen quotations, and analysis of technique rather than retelling the story. It is also the most coachable part of the course.
Important Topics
- Reading for UAEUnderstanding, analysis and evaluation questions on an unseen non-fiction passage.
- Scottish Set TextClose study of a set text with questions on extract and on the text as a whole.
- Critical EssayA structured argument about a studied text, using evidence and analysis.
- Portfolio: Creative WritingA personal reflective or imaginative piece developed through drafting.
- Portfolio: Discursive WritingA researched, referenced argumentative or persuasive piece.
- Spoken LanguageSolo talk and group discussion assessed internally as pass/fail.
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