English

National 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.