Using a range of vocabulary

    AQA
    GCSE

    Proficiency in vocabulary usage is a dual-faceted requirement, necessitating both the perceptive analysis of a writer's lexical choices (AO2) and the conscious deployment of sophisticated terminology in original writing (AO5/AO6). Candidates must demonstrate the ability to deconstruct semantic fields, connotations, and register to evaluate how language shapes meaning in unseen texts. Simultaneously, high-tariff writing responses demand the selection of ambitious, precise vocabulary to establish tone, construct atmosphere, and manipulate the reader's response with intentionality.

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    Objectives
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    Exam Tips
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    Pitfalls
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    Key Terms
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    Mark Points

    What You Need to Demonstrate

    Key skills and knowledge for this topic

    • Credit analysis that isolates specific lexical choices (verbs, adjectives, abstract nouns) rather than quoting extensive chunks of text.
    • Award marks for 'judicious' vocabulary in writing that enhances tone and register, rather than 'polysyllabic' words used incorrectly.
    • Candidates must explain the specific effect of a word choice (e.g., 'connotations of violence') rather than generic comments like 'makes the reader want to read on'.
    • Reward the sustained use of a sophisticated semantic field in creative writing to establish atmosphere or character voice.

    Marking Points

    Key points examiners look for in your answers

    • Credit analysis that isolates specific lexical choices (verbs, adjectives, abstract nouns) rather than quoting extensive chunks of text.
    • Award marks for 'judicious' vocabulary in writing that enhances tone and register, rather than 'polysyllabic' words used incorrectly.
    • Candidates must explain the specific effect of a word choice (e.g., 'connotations of violence') rather than generic comments like 'makes the reader want to read on'.
    • Reward the sustained use of a sophisticated semantic field in creative writing to establish atmosphere or character voice.

    Examiner Tips

    Expert advice for maximising your marks

    • 💡In Question 2 (Language Analysis), zoom in on individual words within a quotation to explore connotations and nuances.
    • 💡For Question 5 (Writing), plan 'vocabulary drops'—specific, ambitious words relevant to the task—before starting to write.
    • 💡Avoid 'fancy' vocabulary if you are unsure of the spelling or exact meaning; precision beats complexity.
    • 💡Use the 'zoom out' technique: analyze the individual word, then link it to the overall tone or theme of the text.

    Common Mistakes

    Pitfalls to avoid in your exam answers

    • Labeling word classes incorrectly (e.g., calling a verb an adjective), which undermines the credibility of the analysis.
    • Using 'Thesaurus syndrome' in writing: inserting complex vocabulary that disrupts flow or meaning due to lack of precision.
    • Offering generic analysis such as 'this creates a picture in the reader's head' without specifying what picture or feeling.
    • Repeating the same intensifiers (e.g., 'very', 'really') or basic adjectives, limiting the mark for AO6 range of vocabulary.

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    Key Terminology

    Essential terms to know

    Likely Command Words

    How questions on this topic are typically asked

    How does the writer use language...
    Write a description...
    Write a story...
    Write an article...
    Compare how writers convey...
    Evaluate

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