Jekyll and Hyde - GCSE, English Literature, Practice Paper, Model Essay and Vocabulary Support

This GCSE (AQA), English Literature practice paper, model answer and vocabulary support sheet focuses on the theme of secrecy in Robert Louis Stevenson’s “The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde.” It provides an in-depth analysis of how secrecy functions as a destructive force within the novel, revealing the duality of human nature and the psychological strain it causes.
The practice paper based unit is structured to help students understand key elements, such as:

• How secrecy affects Dr. Jekyll’s emotional and physical state, influencing his relationships and morality.
• Detailed examination of an extract from Chapter 3, highlighting Jekyll’s physical reactions and attempts to evade discussions about Mr. Hyde.
• Exploration of the wider novel, discussing how Jekyll’s transformation into Hyde symbolizes hidden desires and the eventual loss of control.
• The impact of Victorian societal norms on characters like Utterson and Lanyon, who prioritize maintaining appearances over confronting uncomfortable truths.
• The structural role of secrecy, using documents and letters to gradually reveal the truth, creating suspense and highlighting the tragic consequences of concealment.

The guide includes a model answer and an indicative content section to assist students in crafting well-supported responses in exams.
The vocabulary resource is designed to enhance students’ understanding of key vocabulary related to the theme of secrecy in Stevenson’s novel. It includes a list of essential words and phrases used in the model essay, such as “concealment,” “hidden desires,” “psychological strain,” and “respectable facade,” each crucial for interpreting the text’s deeper meanings. Students are required to find definitions and explanations of how these terms relate to the novel’s context. An exercise is provided for students to write sentences using these words, reinforcing their comprehension and ability to discuss themes effectively in essays.
This unit offers valuable tools for students preparing for the AQA, GCSE English Literature exam, providing both analytical frameworks and vocabulary mastery to excel in their studies.