FLE Paper 1: Reading Comprehension

Paper 1 Overview

• Paper 1 is 50% of the First Language English exam
• 2 hours, 80 marks: Question 1 (30 marks), Question 2 (25 marks), and Question 3 (25 marks)

Timings

• Q1 Comprehension questions: 15 minutes
• Q1 Summary: 20 minutes
• Q2 Vocabulary Questions: 15 minutes
• Q2 Language analysis: 25 minutes
• Q3 Extended response: 35 minutes
• Plus 5-10 minutes proofreading at the end

Grade Boundaries

• S23 grade boundaries: A* is not possible on a single component, only overall
• Percentage boundaries for grades A, B, C, D, and E vary by paper version (11, 12, or 13)

Question 1: Comprehension and Summary

• Comprehension questions (Q1(a)-Q1(e)): 15 marks, 15 minutes
• Technique: skim and scan questions and text first, then work through question-by-question
• Unless instructed, copy answers directly from the text
• Don't write in full sentences except for the last two explain questions

Question 1(f): Summary Writing

• Summary writing: 15 marks, 20 minutes
• Technique: read the summary question first, then read the text, highlighting answers as you go
• Write a focused summary with 10 individual points, no introduction or conclusion
• Use your own words, paraphrase, and group similar ideas together

Question 2: Vocabulary Questions

• Q2(a)-(c): 10 marks, 15 minutes
• Technique: find the correct word or phrase from the text and copy it down directly
• Give synonyms in your own words, without reusing the original word

Question 2(d): Language Analysis

• Language analysis: 15 marks, 25 minutes
• Analyze the use of imagery in two paragraphs from Text C
• Choose three images from each paragraph, explain the meaning of each quote, and analyze the effect of the image
• Focus on word choices and their effects on the reader

Question 3: Extended Response

• Extended response: 25 marks, 40 minutes
• Write in the format of a specified text type (e.g., letter, newspaper report, journal)
• Save time for this question, using VARPF (Voice, Audience, Register, Purpose, Format) to guide your writing
• Reading marks (15) focus on content points, details, and development
• Writing marks (10) focus on register, audience, and language choices

This lesson and quiz cover the reading comprehension section of the First Language English Paper 1. Take a free video lesson and review quiz on Taughtly.co.uk to prepare for your exam.