#14
Upgrading a paragraph (Grade 5 → Grade 8/9)
AQA English · Skills
Key steps (method)
- Start with: point + quote + basic explanation.
- Upgrade 1: add AO2 zoom (one key word + connotations).
- Upgrade 2: add structure (contrast/shift/pattern) if it’s relevant.
- Upgrade 3: add purpose (what the writer wants the audience to think/do).
- Upgrade 4 (optional): add a second interpretation.
- Final check: link back to the question in the last line.
Common mistakes
- Adding fancy words instead of better analysis.
- Throwing in context without linking it to the quote.
- Making the paragraph longer but not sharper.
Support videos
- Grade 9 paragraph GCSE English search: https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=gcse+english+grade+9+paragraph