GCSE
English Language
2.1.4 Question 4: 20 Marks
In this lesson, you’ll learn how to answer GCSE English Language Paper 1, Question 4. We’ll focus on forming an opinion about a given statement, selecting evidence, and evaluating how effectively the writer creates meaning, so you can build a clear, well-supported argument for up to 20 marks.
Paper 1: Question 4
Question 4 is the longest response in Section A – it’s worth 20 marks and assesses AO4 (evaluationMaking judgements about how effective a text or technique is.). This question will give you a statement (an opinion about the extract, often attributed to a student or just as a claim) and ask: “To what extent do you agree?”
Essentially, you need to form an argument about the text, supported by evidence. You’ll be evaluating how successful or effective some aspect of the text is, or how much you agree with a viewpointA writer’s opinion or stance on a subject. on the characters/theme. This requires you to combine your reading skills: understanding the text, picking out evidence (like in Q2/3), and then making a judgement about it through analysing it. We’ll cover how to structureThe organisation and order of information in a text. an evaluation, how to show a balanced opinion, and what common mistakes to avoid.
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Create a free accountPaper 1: Question 4
- Worth 20 marks; assesses AO4 – evaluation.
- You are given a statement about the extract (e.g. a student’s opinion) and must respond to “To what extent do you agree?”
Approaching Question 4
- You can agree fully, partly agree, or disagree – no right answer, but you must justify your opinion with evidence from the text.
- Skills needed:
- Understanding the text.
- Selecting relevant evidence (quotes or precise references).
- Analysing how the evidence supports or challenges the statement.
- Making clear judgements (effective / ineffective).
- Structure:
- Introduction – state your stance clearly.
- Main points – each paragraph should give a reason, quote, and explanation showing why you agree/disagree.
- Counterpoint – optional but shows balance (acknowledge the other side).
- Conclusion – summarise your stance.
- Use evaluative language as it shows you are making a judgement, not just describing (e.g. effective, powerful, convincing, less effective).
- Avoid:
- Sitting on the fence with no clear position.
- Turning it into just a Q2-style language analysis with no judgement.
- Using irrelevant or outside-the-extract evidence.
- Time: 20–25 minutes; aim for 3–4 developed paragraphs.
- Remember PECS: Powerfully, Effectively, Clearly, Successfully to frame your evaluation.