Communicating clearly

    AQA
    GCSE

    Proficiency in clear communication requires the precise decoding of explicit and implicit data within unseen texts alongside the production of coherent, technically accurate written responses. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to synthesize complex ideas and articulate viewpoints with register-appropriate vocabulary and structural control. Assessment rigorously evaluates the manipulation of sentence forms for effect, the maintenance of a consistent narrative or argumentative voice, and the accurate deployment of Standard English conventions.

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    Objectives
    4
    Exam Tips
    4
    Pitfalls
    4
    Key Terms
    4
    Mark Points

    What You Need to Demonstrate

    Key skills and knowledge for this topic

    • Credit responses that adapt register and tone convincingly to the specified audience (e.g., broadsheet newspaper vs. blog).
    • Award marks for the conscious use of structural features (discourse markers, cyclical structures) that guide the reader through a coherent argument or narrative.
    • Assess vocabulary based on precision and sophistication; ambitious vocabulary must be used correctly to merit Level 4.
    • Penalise errors in sentence demarcation (comma splices) which severely cap marks in AO6 regardless of content quality.

    Marking Points

    Key points examiners look for in your answers

    • Credit responses that adapt register and tone convincingly to the specified audience (e.g., broadsheet newspaper vs. blog).
    • Award marks for the conscious use of structural features (discourse markers, cyclical structures) that guide the reader through a coherent argument or narrative.
    • Assess vocabulary based on precision and sophistication; ambitious vocabulary must be used correctly to merit Level 4.
    • Penalise errors in sentence demarcation (comma splices) which severely cap marks in AO6 regardless of content quality.

    Examiner Tips

    Expert advice for maximising your marks

    • 💡Allocate 5 minutes strictly for planning; a structural plan (e.g., cyclical or drop-shift-zoom) is essential for Level 4 coherence.
    • 💡Vary sentence openers deliberately (e.g., start with a preposition, adverb, or participle) to avoid repetitive syntax.
    • 💡Proofread the final response specifically for sentence boundaries; ensure every sentence has a main clause.
    • 💡Match the form strictly: if asked for a letter, include the conventions of a letter; if a speech, use rhetorical devices.

    Common Mistakes

    Pitfalls to avoid in your exam answers

    • Comma splices and run-on sentences that destroy sentence demarcation and clarity.
    • Inconsistent register, such as using slang in a formal letter or archaic language in a modern article.
    • The 'wall of text' error: failing to use paragraphing to organise ideas or dramatic shifts.
    • Misuse of complex vocabulary ('thesaurus syndrome') where words are used out of context, obscuring meaning.

    Study Guide Available

    Comprehensive revision notes & examples

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    Key Terminology

    Essential terms to know

    Likely Command Words

    How questions on this topic are typically asked

    Write a description...
    Write a story...
    Write a speech...
    Write an article...
    Write a letter...
    Write a leaflet...

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