Trying to find a range of practice questions to help you prepare for your QCAA English External Assessment (EA)?
We’ve got just the thing! This series of practice questions aims to simulate exam conditions and you will be expected to respond using literary devices, stylistic and aesthetic features as examples, as well as provide analysis for each of your paragraphs.
To get some prep in, you might want to craft entire essays for these questions or create essay plans! The questions are arranged in difficulty, from easy to head-exploding.
What are you waiting for? Use your creativity and get cracking on these QCAA English EA practice questions!
Literary Devices (Low Difficulty)
Cultural Identity and Context (Medium Difficulty)
Character Interactions (Medium Difficulty)
Morality (High Difficulty)
Literary Devices (Low Difficulty)
If you need a refresher on some literary devices, check out our essential list of them here!
Question 1
How is imagery used to represent the themes of your chosen text?
Question 2
How does the writer use structure to ensure their message is understood by audiences?
Question 3
Tone is particularly important in establishing the setting and atmosphere of a story. Explore this statement within your given text.
Question 4
To what extent are stylistic devices important in communicating the themes of a novel? Answer this question in the context of your chosen text.
Question 5
To what extent are Aesthetic features important in communicating the themes of a novel? Answer this question in the context of your chosen text.
Question 6
Some works of literature often revolve around solely the protagonist. Is this the case with your chosen text? What literary device does your chosen text revolve around?
Cultural Identity and Context (Medium Difficulty)
Question 7
To what extent does culture play a role in communicating the main message of your chosen text?
Question 8
To what extent does your chosen text utilise context to communicate its intended message?
Question 9
How significant is the protagonist’s connections to their cultural experiences in communicating the overall themes of your chosen text?
Question 10
What pivotal aspects about a character’s identity reveal their true nature in your chosen text?
Question 11
What historical factors have pushed the writer to produce your chosen text? How are they represented within your chosen text?
Character Interactions (Medium Difficulty)
Question 12
The author uses foils to indicate and underline differences between characters, and thus communicate their message. Explore this statement within your given text.
Question 13
Describe the interaction between two characters of your choosing within your chosen text.
Question 14
What character is most instrumental in your chosen text? Why?
Question 15
“Characters are only tools to highlight the main message of a story.” To what extent do you agree? Answer within the context of your chosen text.
Morality (High Difficulty)
Question 16
Morality is a matter that is often discussed in literature. Explore the moral messages in your given text.
Question 17
Socrates was once reported to have uttered the maxim: “I know that I know nothing.” To what extent is this philosophical observation represented in your text?
Question 18
“There is nothing to writing. All you do is sit at a typewriter and bleed.” — Ernest Hemingway. Use this quote as inspiration to explore how the writer’s personal experiences are reflected in the text of your choosing.
Question 19
Keep in mind the same quote from Question 18. Is Hemingway right? Discuss your decision within the context of your chosen text.
Question 20
What moral considerations are audiences asked to keep in mind when experiencing your chosen text, and how are such moral considerations presented to them?
Struggling to find time to use these practice questions! Struggle no longer by learning how to reorganise your time and study routine leading up to the external exams!
There you have it!
You’ve got a whole range of practice questions to help you get ready for your English EA — good luck!
If you’re searching for other QCAA English resources, check out some or our other articles and guides below:
- Your Essential Guide to Writing an Imaginative Written Response for QCAA English
- How to Create a Written Response for a Public Audience for QCAA English
- How to Craft a Persuasive Spoken Response for QCAA English
- The Complete Guide to Writing an Analytical Essay for QCAA English
Are you looking for some extra help with the QCAA English External Assessment?
We have an incredible team of QLD tutors and mentors!
We can help you master the English syllabus and ace your upcoming English assessments with personalised lessons conducted one-on-one in your home or online!
We offer expert one-on-one Brisbane English tutoring to help you get through your external exam!
We’ve supported over 8,000 students over the last 11 years, and on average our students score mark improvements of over 20%!
To find out more and get started with an inspirational QLD tutor and mentor, get in touch today or give us a ring on 1300 267 888!
Vittorio Manessi is an Art of Smart tutor based in Queensland studying environmental science. He was one of the first Year 12 students to study under the new ATAR system in Queensland. He enjoys Maths, Science, English and Ancient History and is keen to share his knowledge of the QCE by making awesome resources.
