Higher English

Course Specification (27/05/2024)

Explains the structure of the course, including its purpose and aims and information on the skills, knowledge and understanding that will be developed.

Past Papers and Marking Instructions

Access all past papers by subject/level


Additional question papers resources

Illustrates the standard, structure and requirements of the question papers candidates will sit (includes marking instructions).

2021

There were no exams in 2021. The 2020-21 question paper resources are, for most subjects, modified papers which reflect the modifications put in place for session 2020-21

Coursework (27/05/2024)

This section provides information on marking instructions and/or the coursework assessment task(s). It includes information that centres need to administer coursework and must be read in conjunction with the course specification.

Instructions

Template

Task

Information on the production and submission of SQA-assessed coursework for National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher.

Understanding Standards (12/02/2025)

Examples of candidate evidence with commentaries

Audio Presentation

Performance - Spoken Language Understanding Standards materials

February 2025 - The 2017 Spoken Language candidate evidence and commentaries have been moved from the Understanding standards Website (login required area) to the SQA Secure site (login required) please speak to your SQA co-ordinator to access these materials.

Changes to Understanding Standards materials

Please note: Understanding Standards materials are regularly reviewed to ensure they remain up to date.

Additional Resources session 2020-22

Further information can be found on the Understanding Standards Website.

Course reports (23/9/24)

Provides information on the performance of candidates - which is useful to teachers, lecturers and assessors in their preparation of candidates for future assessment.

Course Reports

Verification Reports

In 2019, a single qualification verification summary report replaced the verification key messages.

Course support (26/03/2025)

Scottish texts in English courses

Scottish text list for National 5 and Higher English courses (valid from session 2025-26)

Scottish text list for National 5 and Higher English courses (valid for session 2024-25)

Optional assessment guidance

This guidance is optional. You can use this guidance or deliver and assess as outlined in the group award specification.

Optional assessment guidance (157 KB)

See also the general HNVQ optional assessment guidance: Information and guidance for centres. (273 KB)

Ushare open learning resources