English AS General Paper 8021

Syllabus Overview and Assessment Objectives

 Understand the structure and
purpose of the English General
Paper
What Breakdown each paper: format,
marks, and timing
We’ll
Cover Learning about the 3
assessment objectives (AO1,
Today AO2, and AO3)
Explore how to succeed in both
Paper 1 and Paper 2
 A skills-based subject that focuses on
critical thinking, analysis and clear
communication.

What is Encourages students to engage with

global and contemporary issues
the
General Draws on knowledge from other
subjects and life experiences
Paper?
Explores a wide range of perspectives
Exam Structure Overview

Paper 1 Essay Paper 2 Comprehension

1 hour 15 minutes 1 hour 45 minutes
1 essay from 10 Compulsory questions based on
options reading texts
30 marks 50 marks
50% of AS level 50% of AS level
Paper 1: Essay

Content:
Write a structured essay on one question
Topics come from 3 broad areas
(explained later)
Assess ability to argue, evaluate and
communicate
Success = planning, critical thinking,
clear structure
Paper 2: Comprehension
Content
Respond to questions based on unseen texts
Tests understanding, inference, evaluation, and
summarizing
Includes language-based and meaning-based questions
Tests ability to analyze how arguments are made
What Are You Being
Tested On?
AO1 – Selection and Application of Information
• Understand and use information from a variety of
sources
• Select and apply relevant examples
AO2 – Analysis and Evaluation
• Interpret language in context
• Analyze ideas and arguments
• Make supported judgements
AO3 – Communication in Written English
• Structured, clear writing
• Link ideas and arguments logically
• Use appropriate tone and vocabulary
Weighting of
Assessment

• AO1: 28%
• AO2: 37%
• AO3: 35%

High importance on analytical thinking

and writing ability
Content Areas

1. Economic, historical, moral, political, and social issues

2. Science, environment, technology, and mathematics

3. Literatyre, arts, media, and language

Tip: Use real-world examples to prepare for essay and

comprehension tasks
How to Succeed
in the Course

Tips:
• Stay informed about current
affairs
• Practice writing essay under
timed conditions
• Analyze how writers use
language
• Revise vocabulary and develop
your own opinions
• Read a variety of nonfiction texts
 Two papers: Essay and Comprehension

Three key AOs to master

Let’s Topics cover a wide range of real-world

Recap
issues

Success = critical thinking + strong

writing

Any questions?
Mastering the Essay –
Planning, Structuring &
Writing for Paper 1
Session
Objectives

We will:
• Understand the Paper 1 essay
requirement
• Learn how to analyze and
choose essay questions
• Practice planning and
structuring essays
• Learn how to build effective
arguments
Essay Question
Types
• “Should freedom of speech
ever be restricted?”
• “To what extent is scientific
progress always beneficial?”
• “How important is the role of
the arts in society today?”

Tip: Look for keywords –

“should” or “to what extent”
and “how far” or “discuss”
How to Choose the Right
Question

Ask yourself:
Do I understand the topic clearly?
Do I have 2-3 strong arguments with
examples?
Can I offer both sides of the debate?
 1. Introduction – hook,
Essay rephrase the question, thesis
statement
Structure 2. Body paragraphs – 2/3
paragraphs, each one with a
: The 4- key idea
Part 3. Counterargument – show
balance
Framewo
rk 4. Conclusion – sum up and
restate your viewpoint
“To what extent is social media
beneficial for society?”
• Introduction
Social media has rapidly transformed how people communicate, access
information, and engage with the world. While it offers several societal benefits
such as connectivity and awareness, it also raises concerns about mental health,
misinformation, and social division. This essay will explore both the advantages
and drawbacks of social media to determine whether its impact on society is
more positive or negative.
Body Paragraph 1 – Argument For (Main Benefit)
One of the strongest benefits of social media is its ability to connect people
globally. Platforms like Instagram, Twitter (X), and WhatsApp allow for instant
communication, helping families, friends, and even strangers from across the
world stay in touch. In times of crisis—such as natural disasters or political
unrest—social media becomes a vital tool for spreading information and
organizing aid. For example, during the 2020 Beirut explosion, citizens used
social media to locate missing persons and mobilize support.
“To what extent is social media
beneficial for society?”
Body Paragraph 2 – Argument For (Secondary Benefit)
In addition to promoting connectivity, social media can empower marginalized voices and raise
awareness for social issues. Hashtags such as #MeToo or #BlackLivesMatter demonstrate how
online platforms have led to real-world movements. These platforms also enable education and
information-sharing, giving people access to resources and perspectives they might not find in
traditional media.
Body Paragraph 3 – Argument Against (Drawbacks)
However, social media also has significant drawbacks. The spread of misinformation is a major
issue, especially when false claims are rapidly shared without fact-checking. This became evident
during the COVID-19 pandemic, when conspiracy theories about vaccines and treatments
circulated widely online. Moreover, social media can negatively affect mental health, especially
among teenagers, by promoting unrealistic standards of beauty and success.
Conclusion
While social media clearly brings many societal advantages—especially in terms of
communication and activism—it also poses real risks that must be managed. To a moderate
extent, social media is beneficial for society, but only when used responsibly. Governments,
companies, and users must work together to minimize its harmful effects while maximizing its
potential for good.
 Social media has rapidly transformed how people communicate, access information, and
engage with the world. While it offers several societal benefits such as connectivity and awareness,
it also raises concerns about mental health, misinformation, and social division. This essay will
explore both the advantages and drawbacks of social media to determine whether its impact on
society is more positive or negative.
One of the strongest benefits of social media is its ability to connect people globally. Platforms
like Instagram, Twitter (X), and WhatsApp allow for instant communication, helping families, friends,
and even strangers from across the world stay in touch. In times of crisis—such as natural disasters
or political unrest—social media becomes a vital tool for spreading information and organizing aid.
For example, during the 2020 Beirut explosion, citizens used social media to locate missing persons
and mobilize support.
In addition to promoting connectivity, social media can empower marginalized voices and raise
awareness for social issues. Hashtags such as #MeToo or #BlackLivesMatter demonstrate how
online platforms have led to real-world movements. These platforms also enable education and
information-sharing, giving people access to resources and perspectives they might not find in
traditional media.
However, social media also has significant drawbacks. The spread of misinformation is a major
issue, especially when false claims are rapidly shared without fact-checking. This became evident
during the COVID-19 pandemic, when conspiracy theories about vaccines and treatments circulated
widely online. Moreover, social media can negatively affect mental health, especially among
teenagers, by promoting unrealistic standards of beauty and success.
While social media clearly brings many societal advantages—especially in terms of
communication and activism—it also poses real risks that must be managed. To a moderate extent,
social media is beneficial for society, but only when used responsibly. Governments, companies, and
users must work together to minimize its harmful effects while maximizing its potential for good.
Building a Strong Argument
• Body paragraphs =
• Claim – your idea
• Evidence – examples, facts, references
• Explanation – link back to the question

Use connectives to guide your reader (e.g. Furthermore,

However, On the other hand)
Question Outlin Introduction: define
e success, thesis
“Should
government Point 1: Economic impact
s be
responsible Point 2: Education and
equality
for ensuring
everyone Counterargument:
Cost/logistics
has access
to the Conclusion: Reaffirm
importance with caveats
internet?”
Example Paragraph
• Another strong argument in favour of government responsibility is that
the internet has become essential for accessing vital services and
opportunities. From education to employment and healthcare, many
basic needs now rely on internet access. Without it, people—especially
in rural or low-income areas—are cut off from resources that others
take for granted. This creates a digital divide that reinforces social
inequality. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, students
without internet access were unable to attend online classes, which
severely impacted their education. In response, some governments,
like South Korea and Finland, invested in free or low-cost broadband to
support disadvantaged communities. This shows that the internet is no
longer a luxury but a necessity. Just as governments are expected to
provide electricity or clean water, ensuring internet access can help
promote equal opportunities and full participation in modern society.
 7) Creative arts have no value
other than as a leisure activity.
Discuss.

Quick 8) Schools should encourage

Planning students to be competitive to

prepare them for adulthood.
Discuss.
Practice
9) Essential workers are not
appreciated enough in your
country. To what extent do you
agree with this statement?
 Answer what you know best

Plan before writing

Recap and
Takeaway Balance your essay: arguments +
counterarguments

Communicate clearly and

persuasively
Understandin
g texts –
Comprehensio
n for Paper 2
Reading, Interpreting,
Evaluating
 Understand
Practice
Paper 2
identifying key
structure and
Session expectations
ideas in a text

Objectiv
es Learn how to
interpret tone,
Explore how to
answer
language and different
purpose question types
Paper 2 Overview

• 1 hour 45 minutes
• Compulsory questions based on one or
more texts
• Assesses understanding, interpretation,
analysis
• AO1, AO2, and AO3 skills tested in
every answer
What Will the
Text Be Like?

• Usually nonfiction: articles,

letters, reviews, opinion pieces
• May include statistics or
persuasive language
• Read with focus and purpose
Question Types

• Find evidence or main ideas

• Summarize key arguments
• Explain word meaning in context
• Analyze tone and bias
• Evaluate the strength of arguments
 Active Reading Strategies

SKIM FOR OVERVIEW SCAN FOR KEYWORDS ANNOTATE: UNDERLINE READ THE QUESTIONS
KEY POINTS AND BEFORE READING THE
HIGHLIGHT ARGUMENTS TEXT IN FULL (OPTIONAL
TIP)
Analyzi
Look for:

ng Adjectives and adverbs

Langua Emotive pr persuasive words

ge and Sentence structure and repetition

Tone Author’s attitude (supportive, sarcastic,

neutral, etc.)
Sample:
Sample Extract Paragraph (Unannotated)
• The internet has transformed into a basic necessity rather than a luxury. In many
parts of the world, people rely on it for education, employment, and healthcare.
However, access is still unequal, with rural and low-income communities often
left behind. Without government support, the digital divide is likely to widen,
reinforcing existing social inequalities and limiting opportunities for millions.
Same Paragraph (With Annotations)
• The internet has transformed into a basic necessity rather than a luxury. [Clear
topic sentence presenting the main idea.]In many parts of the world, people rely
on it for education, employment, and healthcare.[Evidence/examples supporting
the main point.]However, access is still unequal, with rural and low-income
communities often left behind.[Balanced tone – introduces a problem or
counterpoint.]Without government support, the digital divide is likely to widen,
reinforcing existing social inequalities and limiting opportunities for millions.
[Implication/consequence – evaluative language showing why the issue matters.]
Possible Exam-Style Question:

• What is the writer’s viewpoint in this paragraph, and

how do they support it? [4 marks]
• Sample Answer (Model):The writer believes the internet
is now a necessity and suggests governments should
play a role in ensuring equal access. They support this
by giving examples of how the internet is used for
essential services and by warning that without
intervention, inequality will grow. The phrase “basic
necessity” shows the writer’s view, and they use terms
like “reinforcing social inequalities” to highlight the
seriousness of the issue.
 How to
summarize
effectively
Summary • Identify main
Skills points, ignore
minor details
• Use your own
words
• Be clear and
concise
• Avoid quoting
unless asked to
Comprehens
ion Practice
Answer
Recap and Tips

1 2 3 4
Read with Practice Stay aware of Use
purpose analyzing tone, structured,
how and why audience, and clear
a writer says argument responses in
something your answers
Writing
Under
Pressur
e
Practicing the Full
Essay: Thesis
Statements, PEAL
Paragraphs & Full Essay
Practice
Session Goals

Write Write clear and specific thesis statements

Use Use PEAL to structure strong, analytical body paragraphs

Practice Practice planning and writing under timed conditions

Reflect and
improve Reflect and improve through self assessment
through
What is a Thesis Statement?
• Definition: A one-sentence summary of your argument or
purpose. It clearly states your position in response to the
question.

• Formula: Topic + Position + Reason why

Example question: “Should governments be responsible for

ensuring everyone has access to the internet?”
Thesis example: Governments should ensure universal internet
access because it is essential for equality in education,
healthcare, and employment.
 Use PEAL to structure each body
paragraph:
P – Point: The topic sentence that
makes a clear argument
What is E – Evidence: Give a real-world
example, fact, or situation
PEAL?
A – Analysis: Explain why this
evidence matters and how it
supports your point
L – Link: Connect your paragraph
back to the question or transition to
the next point
Build a Paragraph Together
• Essay Question: Should the government control social media
content?
Sample PEAL:
P – The government should have limited control over social
media to prevent the spread of harmful content.
E – For example, in Germany, laws require platforms to delete
hate speech within 24 hours.
A – This ensures that vulnerable communities are protected
and that digital spaces remain safe.
L – Therefore, some government control is necessary to
balance free expression with public safety.
• Essay Question: Should the government
control social media content?
Sample PEAL:
The government should have limited
control over social media to prevent the
spread of harmful content. For example,
in Germany, laws require platforms to
delete hate speech within 24 hours. This
ensures that vulnerable communities are
protected and that digital spaces remain
safe. Therefore, some government control
is necessary to balance free expression
with public safety.
 Choose 1. Should all education
be free?
1
question 2. To what extent has
technology improved our
from the quality of life?

2-3 3. Is censorship ever

provided justified in the media?
Plan

• Write a clear thesis

• Bullet point 3 body
paragraphs using PEAL

Example:
Thesis:
Point:
Evidence:
Analysis:
Link:
 • Write the introduction using
your planning + 3 body
paragraphs – no bullet
points, a full essay with a
conclusion. (600-700 words)
Homework
 • Self-Checklist (AO1, AO2, AO3 +
PEAL & Thesis Focus)

Feedback 1. Did I make my position clear in

my thesis?
and 2. Did I follow PEAL in each
Reflection paragraph
3. Did I use relevant, real world-
examples?
4. Did I explain why each example
matters?
 • Rewrite one weak
paragraph using full PEAL
• Add a conclusion if you
didn’t finish in time
• Type your essay and
Feedback highlight your thesis +
P/E/A/L in different colors.