Exam-style question
Try this first
Which answer best distinguishes AO4 from AO5 in How meanings are shaped? Focus: AO2 meanings and methods.
- A.Use AO4 to connect texts directly and AO5 to explore different evidence-supported interpretations of the literary text.
- B.Use AO4 for spelling and AO5 for personal preference about the characters.
- C.Write about each text separately for AO4 and add an unsupported opinion for AO5.
- D.Treat context, comparison and criticism as interchangeable evidence.
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- The correct answer is Use AO4 to connect texts directly and AO5 to explore different evidence-supported interpretations of the literary text.
Explanation
Why this works
Use AO4 to connect texts directly and AO5 to explore different evidence-supported interpretations of the literary text. This is correct because for A-Level 7717, AO4 is connection across texts and AO5 is engagement with different interpretations.
It supports the approved objective "Analyse ways in which meanings are shaped in literary texts." while avoiding invented quotations, plot summary, option mixing and unsupported interpretation.
Common mistake
How meanings are shaped literary-analysis mistake 1
Treating Analyse ways in which meanings are shaped in literary texts. as plot summary, unsupported opinion or a place to invent quotations, while blurring analysis vs plot summary.
Make an AO1 claim, use accurate textual evidence, analyse a method for AO2, add relevant AO3 context, connect texts for AO4 and test interpretations for AO5 only where the task requires them.