AQA GCSE English Literature Predicted Papers! 📚✨

Jen - Primrose Kitten

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

  1. 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.​

  2. 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.​

  3. 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

  1. 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.​

  2. 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.​

  3. 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

  1. 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.​

  2. 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.​

  3. 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

  1. 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.​

  2. 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.​

  3. 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

  1. 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.​

  2. 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.​

  3. 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

  1. 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.​

  2. 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.​

  3. 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

  1. 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.​

  2. 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.​

  3. 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

  1. How does Dickens present the transformation of Scrooge?

    • Trace Scrooge's journey from miser to benefactor.

    • Highlight the influence of the three spirits.​

  2. How is the theme of social responsibility explored?

    • Discuss Dickens's critique of Victorian society.

    • Examine characters like the Cratchits and Fred.​

  3. 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

  1. How is the theme of social class presented in the novel?

    • Examine Pip's aspirations and their consequences.

    • Discuss characters like Estella and Magwitch.​

  2. 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.​

  3. How is the theme of redemption explored?

    • Trace Pip's moral development.

    • Highlight acts of forgiveness and personal growth.​

Jane Eyre

  1. How does Brontë present Jane's quest for independence?

    • Discuss Jane's resistance to societal norms.

    • Examine key moments of self-assertion.​

  2. How is the theme of love and passion explored?

    • Analyse Jane's relationships with Rochester and others.

    • Consider the balance between emotion and reason.​

  3. 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

  1. How does Shelley explore the dangers of unchecked ambition?

    • Analyse Victor's pursuit of knowledge.

    • Discuss the consequences of playing God.​

  2. 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.​

  3. 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

  1. How does Austen portray the theme of marriage?

    • Examine various marriages in the novel.

    • Discuss societal expectations versus personal desires.​

  2. How is the character of Elizabeth Bennet presented?

    • Analyse her wit, intelligence, and independence.

    • Consider her role as a progressive female protagonist.​

  3. 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

  1. How does Conan Doyle present the character of Sherlock Holmes?

    • Analyse Holmes's methods of deduction.

    • Discuss his relationship with Watson.​

  2. How is the theme of imperialism explored in the novel?

    • Examine the portrayal of colonial India.

    • Discuss the significance of the Agra treasure.​

  3. 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:

  1. First question – analysis of one unseen poem

  2. 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)

  1. 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.​

  2. 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.​

  3. 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)

  1. 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.​

  2. 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.​

  3. 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)

  1. 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."​

  2. 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.​

  3. 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)

  1. 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.​

  2. 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.​

  3. 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)

  1. 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.​

  2. 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.​

  3. 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)

  1. 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.​

  2. 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.​

  3. 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)

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  2. 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)

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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)

  1. 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).

  2. 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.

  3. 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)

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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)

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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)

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.


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