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National 5�English

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English Skills & �Topics

Reading for Understanding, Analysis and Evaluation (RUAE)

Textual Analysis (poetry)

Critical Essay (prose or drama)

Portfolio (1 piece of extended writing)

Spoken Language Performance Unit

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Structure of the �Exam

Paper 1: RUAE

Task: Read one unseen passage and answer questions.

Time: 1 hour exam time.

Marks: 30 marks available (30%)

Paper 2: Critical Reading

Section A: Analyse an extract from a Scottish Set Text (SST) by answering analytical and comparative questions.

Section B: Write a critical essay about the work of literature studied in class.

Time: 1 hour 30 minutes exam time

Marks: 40 marks available - 20 marks for each component (40%)

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Example Exam Paper (RUAE)

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Example Exam Paper (SST)

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Example Exam Paper (Critical Essay)

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Coursework

Portfolio

Task: Produce a piece of writing of no more than 1000 words. This can be broadly creative writing (short story, monologue, poem, etc.) or broadly discursive writing (discursive, persuasive, argumentative, etc.) .

Timeline:

First draft around the October Break (in class).
Final draft by March 2025.

Marks: 30 marks available (30%)

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Rough Assessment Timeline

Aug – Oct	First draft of portfolio in class
Nov - Dec	Practice RUAE assessment
Jan - Feb	Prelim: Paper 1 & Paper 2
Mar - Apr	Final draft of portfolio sent to the SQA Revision
May	Exam!

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How to be Successful in the Exam

Complete all homework as it’s an opportunity to practise and receive feedback. Be sure to turn Google Classroom notifications on!

Meeting all deadlines related to the Portfolio.

Structured and regular revision of texts and RUAE question types.

Knowing the different question types and corresponding answer structures.

Completing past papers in timed conditions, so you are more prepared for the exam experience.

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How can parents/carers help?

Look out for the “PLHS: National 5 English Key Information” email – this will include key dates and access to the helpful links below.

Switch on parent/carer updates for Google Classroom as this will give you an overview of homework and coursework deadlines.

Help them create a study timetable that covers all components of the course, but also builds in regular breaks…and cups of tea!

Please encourage your child to attend English Supported Study or to make contact with their teacher if they are feeling unsure or they are struggling with a piece of work.

Helpful links:

National 5 English - BBC Bitesize

PLHS N5 English Revision

Scholar

SQA - NQ - Past papers and marking instructions

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Please contact the school if you have additional queries or questions!

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