NSC English Past Papers — Home Language and First Additional Language
English is the language of instruction at most South African universities and a key subject in the NSC. The NSC offers English Home Language (HL) for those whose first language is English, and English First Additional Language (FAL) for those for whom it is a second language. Both consist of Paper 1 (comprehension and language), Paper 2 (literature), and Paper 3 (writing). This guide explains each paper and how to prepare.
Paper 1 — Language in Context
Paper 1 tests your ability to read, comprehend, and analyse unseen texts. It is typically 2.5 hours and worth 70 marks. The paper includes multiple reading passages — sometimes factual, sometimes literary — followed by comprehension, summary, and language questions.
- Read the questions before reading the passage — this helps you read actively.
- For comprehension answers, use evidence from the text and quote where required.
- Summary questions require you to identify specific points — count your points carefully.
- Language questions test grammar, figures of speech, punctuation, and vocabulary.
- Do not write more than required — extra content that contradicts your answer loses marks.
Paper 2 — Literature
Paper 2 tests your knowledge and analysis of prescribed literary works. The paper covers poetry, drama, a novel, and short stories/additional poetry. You will study specific prescribed texts set by the DBE for the current year.
Sections typically include contextual questions (short answers about a given extract) and essay questions requiring extended analysis of themes, character, language, and literary devices.
- Know your prescribed texts thoroughly — read them multiple times.
- For poetry, identify and explain figures of speech, tone, mood, and theme.
- For drama and novels, know the plot, character development, conflict, and themes.
- Essay answers should have a clear introduction, body paragraphs with evidence, and a conclusion.
- Use literary terminology correctly — it signals to the examiner that you understand the text.
Paper 3 — Writing
Paper 3 is a writing paper — you will choose from transactional and creative writing tasks. Transactional writing includes formal letters, reports, speeches, and advertisements. Creative writing includes essays and narrative or descriptive pieces.
Marks are awarded for content, language, structure, and presentation. Proofread your work before the time is up.
- Plan your essay or piece for 5 minutes before you start writing.
- Use varied sentence structures and avoid repeating the same words.
- For transactional texts, follow the correct format exactly (letter layout, report structure, etc.).
- Write legibly — examiners cannot award marks for text they cannot read.
English HL vs FAL — Key Differences
| Aspect | English Home Language (HL) | English FAL |
|---|---|---|
| Target learners | First-language English speakers | Second/additional language speakers |
| Paper 1 duration | 2.5 hours | 2.5 hours |
| Paper 2 duration | 3 hours (HL) | 2.5 hours |
| Paper 3 duration | 2.5 hours | 2.5 hours |
| Language complexity | Higher register expected | Simpler register accepted |
| Pass mark contribution | Counts as HL subject | Counts as FAL subject |