The return to school has seen our tutees waste no time getting back into the rhythm of learning. Whether it's our GCSE and A-Level students preparing for their final mock exams before the real thing or younger students working towards mid-term assessments, we’re already seeing the dedication and focus that will lead them to success. So, let’s dive into what we’ve been covering this week across all key stages, along with our top tips!
Key Stage 3: Getting Ready for An Inspector Calls
For many of our Year 9 tutees, it’s an exciting time as we start work on An Inspector Calls. However, before diving into the Birling family drama, we’re setting the scene with context—and this is where many students slip up in exams.
Top Tip
Context isn’t just about throwing in historical facts—it’s about linking them directly to Priestley’s message. The play was written in 1945 but set in 1912—a crucial time difference. In 1912, the class system was rigid, gender inequality was the norm, and war loomed on the horizon. By 1945, after two world wars, society had begun shifting towards social responsibility. Priestley wanted his audience to reflect on these changes. Keeping this in mind while analysing characters will help make your answers stronger.
Key Stage 4: GCSE Powerhouse Topics
Year 10 – Jekyll & Hyde: Chapter 7
We’re approaching the end of Jekyll & Hyde and Chapter 7 offers a crucial moment in understanding Jekyll’s transformation.
Top Tip
When analysing Jekyll’s decline, think back to Chapter 1. In the beginning, Utterson and Enfield were comfortable walking together in public, discussing strange occurrences. By Chapter 7, they are met with Jekyll’s horrifying deterioration, and their shock highlights how much he has changed.
Example PETAL Paragraph:
📌 Point – Stevenson uses the physical transformation of Dr. Jekyll to reinforce the idea that the duality of man is inescapable.
📌 Evidence – Jekyll is described as having "an expression of such abject terror and despair."
📌 Technique – The word "abject" means completely without hope, foreshadowing his inevitable downfall.
📌 Analysis – The contrast between the once-respected doctor and this trembling, terrified figure reinforces the idea that indulging in darker impulses comes at a cost.
📌 Link – Stevenson warns the reader of the dangers of repressing one's true nature, reflecting Victorian fears surrounding morality and science.
Year 11 – Poetry & Exam Structure
With English Literature Paper 2 mock exams on the horizon, we’re homing in on poetry essay structure.
Top Tip
Use the PETAL structure consistently—it’s your best friend when analysing poetry.
Example Poetry Response Structure:
✅ Thesis: Briefly introduce both poems, outlining their themes and key comparisons.
✅ First Paragraph: Focus on Poem A, exploring the poet’s methods and how conflict is portrayed.
✅ Second Paragraph: Compare Poem B, drawing links between language, structure, and themes.
✅ Final Paragraph: Consider the overall message—how do both poets present the lasting effects of conflict?
Master this, and your poetry responses will be a cut above the rest.
An Inspector Calls: Responsibility & The Inspector’s Role
We’ve been pulling apart key characters and themes and responsibility is at the heart of Priestley’s play.
Model PETAL Paragraph – Responsibility:
📌 Point – Priestley presents the Inspector as a mouthpiece for socialism and personal accountability.
📌 Evidence – “We are responsible for each other.”
📌 Technique – The collective pronoun “we” emphasises community and shared duty.
📌 Analysis – Priestley wants his audience to realise that every action has consequences, reinforcing his post-war message of social responsibility.
📌 Link – This is in stark contrast to Mr. Birling’s capitalist outlook, where he dismisses community and morality in favour of personal gain.
Key Stage 5: A-Level English Language – Paper 1
Top Tip: Breaking Down Question 1
AQA English Language Paper 1, Question 1 may seem simple, but don’t be fooled—it tests your ability to extract key information precisely.
✅ What it Asks: Identify four key pieces of information from the source.
✅ What to Watch Out For:
- Don't infer—stick to explicit details in the text.
- Use your own words instead of copying the text directly.
- Read the question carefully to ensure you’re identifying the correct information.
Science-Backed Exam Technique Tips
Recent studies show that retrieval practice and interleaving are two of the best revision strategies:
✅ Retrieval Practice – Instead of just re-reading notes, write down everything you remember from a topic, then check what you missed. This strengthens memory retention.
✅ Interleaving – Mix subjects up during study sessions. Instead of one long session on poetry, switch between poetry, Jekyll & Hyde, and English Language to reinforce different areas of learning.
Mental Health Matters: Avoid Burnout
We know many of our tutees are juggling school, interventions, and tuition—and burnout is real. Please remember to take structured breaks to boost focus. Also, don’t underestimate the power of good sleep—it’s more effective than last-minute cramming.
Next GCSE Mastery Webinar – Jekyll & Hyde (Sunday 23rd March, 6.30pm – 7.30pm)
Our next GCSE Mastery Webinar focuses on Jekyll & Hyde. This session will:
✅ Unpack key themes and characters in the novella.
✅ Provide model essay structures and exam-style questions.
✅ Give attendees access to a full revision video.
Life Outside the Books
We’re fully booked and loving every second of working with our tutees! Meanwhile, Bradley and Arlo had a boys’ day out—soft play, brunch and an endless energy supply (from Arlo, not Bradley). Jemma, on the other hand, has been on a mission to expand Arlo’s musical talents, with Hop Little Bunnies and The Alphabet Song now on repeat.
The hard work continues, but we believe in every single one of our tutees. Whether you're sitting exams, prepping for mocks, or building towards GCSEs, we’re here for the journey.
Remember to stay focused and stay...BA Tuition!
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