Creative & Descriptive Writing is a core part of GCSE English Language. Revise the key concepts and common mistakes below, then lock them in with the free games.
Plot StructureOpening hook, rising tension, climax, falling action, resolution; one event focus in short story.
Show Don't TellDescribe action and sensation rather than state emotion; 'tears welled' not 'she was sad'.
Sensory DetailFive senses: sight, sound, smell, taste, touch; immerses reader; not just visual.
DialogueRealistic speech reveals character and advances plot; new line for new speaker; punctuation crucial.
Tone and MoodTone = writer's attitude; mood = reader's feeling; created by word choice, pace, imagery.
ResolutionSatisfying ending: full circle, twist, ambiguity; avoid 'and it was all a dream'.
SkimmingRapid reading for general sense; eye moves across page to grasp topic and main ideas; useful for first pass.
ScanningSearching for specific information; eyes hunt keyword without reading every word; useful for fact retrieval.
Close ReadingDetailed examination of text; analyses word choice, structure, effect; required for analytical questions.
InferenceDrawing conclusion from textual evidence beyond what is stated; supported by quotation; key examiner skill.
SynthesisCombining information from two texts; finding similarities/differences; AQA Paper 2 Question 2 requires this.
PEEL ParagraphPoint, Evidence, Explanation, Link; structures analytical response; ensures every quotation analysed.
Questions where students often pick the tempting wrong answer — make sure you know the right one: