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Level 5 exemplars and comments Paper 1 Sample 1: Part I, Section C, Question 11

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Sample 1: Part I, Section C, Question 11

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Sample 1: Part I, Section C, Question 11

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Sample 1: Part I, Section C, Question 11

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Sample 1: Part I, Section C, Question 11

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Sample 1: Part I, Section C, Question 11

Comments The candidate focuses on several key scenes in the film for analysis. She examines in thorough detail and with insight a wide range of filmic techniques Hitchcock uses in Vertigo, notably camera shots, lighting, mise-en-scène, music and sound effects, and shows effectively how they are used to heighten tension and suspense, as well as to enhance the audience’s understanding of the development of the relationship between Scottie and Madeleine/Judy.

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Sample 2: Part II, Question 20

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Sample 2: Part II, Question 20

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Sample 2: Part II, Question 20

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Sample 2: Part II, Question 20

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Sample 2: Part II, Question 20

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Sample 2: Part II, Question 20

Comments

The candidate makes good observations about the illusions that characters have about life in The Great Gatsby and Vertigo. Closely analysing their thoughts, actions and interactions, she argues convincingly that the characters from the two texts have built for themselves, or cast on each other, various kinds of illusions, including false conceptions that the past can be recreated; that love is simple and straightforward; that hard work equates to success; and that most people around them are moral and honest. Overall, the essay is insightful and shows a firm grasp of the topic.

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Paper 2 Sample 1: Section A, Question 1

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Sample 1: Section A, Question 1

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Sample 1: Section A, Question 1

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Sample 1: Section A, Question 1

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Sample 1: Section A, Question 1

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Sample 1: Section A, Question 1

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Sample 1: Section A, Question 1

Comments (i) This is as an impressive example of thorough understanding, persuasive analysis and clarity.

The candidate explains the “battlefield” metaphor in context. Very good support is provided as to how the extract demonstrates Katherina’s new-found obedience “in stark contrast” to her previous shrewishness, and notes the comic value throughout. Excellent analysis of this transformation (“putting on a show”), with her over-the-top admiration of Vincentio. Also points out Katherina’s realisation of her need to comply with Petruchio if the journey to Padua is to continue.

(ii) Correctly explains that Petruchio is referring to Lucentio and Bianca’s marriage, and how he reassures Vincentio of his new daughter-in-law’s nobility and wealth, noting the social importance of this. There is some confusion (with tenses) about future plot development. A nice point is made about Petruchio’s linguistic skills.

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Sample 2: Section B, Question 5

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Sample 2: Section B, Question 5

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Sample 2: Section B, Question 5

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Sample 2: Section B, Question 5

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Sample 2: Section B, Question 5

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Sample 2: Section B, Question 5

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Sample 2: Section B, Question 5

Comments (i) A well-written response that demonstrates a considered, critical and imaginative

understanding of set poetry. From the start, the candidate links both poems in terms of natural elements, with good support provided. They go on to point out the static/kinetic contrasts. The candidate shows a strong awareness of the impact of connotation, and correctly explains the technical function of devices such as repetition, hyperbole, imagery, sibilance, etc.

(ii) Answer goes off-track slightly by describing the atmosphere as sinister and bone-chilling (Plath is awed and comforted by this imagined journey towards death), but the central theme of death is explained and the candidate correctly relates word choice to this theme in relation to repetition, imagery, allusion and symbolism.

(iii) Identifies Williams’ free verse structure and comments on how this conveys freedom of the imagination, but this is not explained further (i.e. visualising a fusion of flowers and sea). Does comment on how the structure is in keeping with the wave movement, and how irregular line structuring mimics high and low tide.