This book is a superb all-in-one guide to success GCSE English Language and English Literature - GCSE English 2003

Standart English
Section Ten — Language and Grammar

Use Standard English

1) Everyone in Britain uses different versions of English — with different local words that can be difficult to understand.

2) Standard English is formal English. The point is that it avoids any local dialect words and helps people all over the country to understand each other.

3) And more importantly, it's what the examiners want you to use.

Use Vocab and Grammar With Care

Using Standard English means following some simple rules.

1) Avoid writing as you'd speak, e.g. putting, 'like' or 'ok' after sentences.

2) Don't use slang or local dialect words that some people might not understand.

3) Don't use cliches (corny phrases that people use all the time), e.g. 'at the end of the day'. They're very boring and won't get you any marks.

4) Standard English means using the correct forms of words with correct spelling and grammar — so make sure you learn this whole section really well.

Avoid these Common Mistakes

Follow these rules in the exam — otherwise it could push you down a whole grade.

You must write with GOOD Standard English

The examiners will just sigh with exasperation if you write your essays the same way that you might talk to your friends. You MUST be formal, and precise with your use of language, if you want good marks.