the Paper 1 essay

With writing, the way you feel changes everything. Almost all good writing begins with terrible first efforts. You need to start somewhere. Words can be like X-rays if you use them properly — they’ll go through anything. You write and you’re pierced.

Content is king.

30 out of 50 marks will be allocated to the use of content in your Paper 1 essays. There is no avoiding it: however much you say you despise reading, a strong understanding of local & international examples is crucial to a well-substantiated essay.

Rubrics for content

  • The mark for content will be determined by the relevance, balance and cogency of the arguments. The extent to which ideas are supported by evidence will also be taken into consideration. Credit will be given to breadth, originality of exemplification and substantiated personal views. Repetition and irrelevance will also be identified.

  • An original and insightful response with perceptive ideas and a balanced discussion which reflects thorough evaluation of the issues contained within the question.

  • The illustration should be appropriate and wide-ranging and clearly linked to the point/idea being expounded. Examples should strive towards originality, preferably making use of contemporary or recent developments.

  • Response should be fully relevant, and address the requirements of the question throughout.

  • The response should be fully engaging, showing personal insight and possibly originality of thought and argument. Illustration should be apt throughout and used to illustrate and enhance both individual points and the overall quality of the argument.

Please read through the demands of the Paper 1 Essay carefully! Understanding the question requirements is crucial to excelling.

Use of language is an avenue for you to develop your personal voice, flaunt your writing prowess, and emerge as a confident & polished writer

20 marks out of 50 will be awarded for your use of language.

Rubrics for use of language

  • The mark will take into consideration the quality and accuracy of expression, including spelling, grammar and punctuation, as well as the range of vocabulary and sentence structure. Devices which aid the flow of the argument, such as linking words and phrases between paragraphs, will also be given credit. Felicitous expression will also be given credit.

  • Linguistic ability should be excellent, with very few errors of spelling, punctuation and grammar. Varied sentence structures and wide-ranging vocabulary should be present. Use of felicitous expression is apparent and/or the choice of vocabulary is sophisticated and consistently appropriate to the task.

  • Organisation of ideas should be extremely well handled with a lucid introduction and conclusion; paragraphing must be coherent, making use of a range of linking devices. The answer concludes effectively, framed in precise and convincing language.

  • The essay should demonstrate a confident personal voice with assured control and range of expression throughout. We understand if some errors may occur, but these should be few and do not impede meaning in any way. Ideas should also be communicated with confidence and conviction.

Please read through the demands of the Paper 1 Essay carefully! Understanding the question requirements is crucial to excelling.

See them in action.

The best way to refine your Paper 1 skills is to practise, practise, practise.

The second-best way to refine your Paper 1 skills is to read the works of others. Delve into a new world of ideas, insights, and imagination. Give your mind this treat.