GCSE GCSE English Language & Literature 3

Question 1

What is the narrative technique of 'dramatic irony'?

Accepted Answer

When the reader knows something a character does not

Answer

Dramatic irony occurs when the audience/reader knows something that one or more characters do not. This creates tension, humour, or pathos. For example, in 'Macbeth', Duncan praises the castle while the audience knows he will be murdered there.

Question 2

In 'An Inspector Calls', what does the Inspector symbolise?

Accepted Answer

Social conscience, collective responsibility, and the voice of socialist morality

Answer

Inspector Goole represents social conscience and Priestley's socialist message. His name 'Goole' suggests 'ghoul' or omniscience. He challenges the Birlings' individualism and argues for collective responsibility.

Question 3

What does 'tone' mean when analysing a piece of writing?

Accepted Answer

The writer's attitude towards the subject, as conveyed through language choices

Answer

Tone is the attitude or mood the writer conveys through their language choices. A text might have an angry, melancholic, sarcastic, or hopeful tone. Identifying tone requires analysing word choices and their connotations.

Question 4

What is the technique of 'foreshadowing' in narrative writing?

Accepted Answer

Hinting at future events to build tension and anticipation

Answer

Foreshadowing involves planting subtle hints about what will happen later in the story. It builds tension, creates a sense of inevitability, and rewards attentive readers. For example, in 'Macbeth', the witches' prophecies foreshadow events.

Question 5

What is the function of the prologue in 'Romeo and Juliet'?

Accepted Answer

To tell the audience the whole plot in advance, including the ending

Answer

The prologue introduces the feud, tells us the lovers will die ('star-crossed'), and frames the play as a tragedy. Rather than creating suspense about the ending, Shakespeare creates dramatic irony — we watch knowing the outcome.

GCSE Revision Practice Test

GCSE Revision Practice Test

GCSE GCSE English Language & Literature 3