AQA English Language Paper Analysis Frankenstein Gothic Literature

This two-lesson scheme on Frankenstein is a ready-to-use, fully structured resource designed to engage students with Gothic literature while developing their skills for AQA English Language Paper 1, Question 4. This was used an Ofsted Outstanding lesson observation.

Across the two lessons, students explore a Gothic extract, identify language, structure, and form, and then evaluate and synthesise their findings in a summative peer assessment. The lessons are designed to be interactive and engaging, combining teacher-led discussion, independent and paired work, and collaborative analysis to ensure students develop both understanding and confidence.

Included in the resource is…

• A comprehensive PowerPoint for both lessons
• A copy of the extract with guiding questions
• Diamond 9 sort cards for evaluating and ranking writer’s methods (includes a couple of red herrings!)
• A mark scheme with exemplar paragraphs and
• A BONUS whole exam script for AQA Language Paper 1 or alternative tasks.

The lessons are structured to gradually build students’ analytical skills: from recognising Gothic archetypes and identifying key subject terms to producing detailed evaluative writing and peer-assessing work using the mark scheme. With built-in opportunities for discussion, formative feedback, and structured evaluation, this resource ensures lessons are active, student-centered, and exam-focused, saving teachers valuable planning time while delivering high-quality, curriculum-aligned teaching.

(cue evil cackle)