Q2 — Retrieval and inference (AO1, 4 marks)

Question: List four things the writer suggests about the narrator's childhood from lines 7–18.

Mark scheme (AO1, 4 marks):

• 1 mark per accurate point, up to 4. Either explicit retrieval or valid inference accepted.
• Points must be from the specified line range; points outside score 0.
• Each point must be distinct — repetition of the same idea in different wording counts once.
• Indicative content (grade 9 inferences): the narrator was materially impoverished ('boots that let in the rain'); emotionally neglected; precociously observant; surrounded by adult vice; physically unwell; resilient despite hardship; drawn to literature as escape.
• Examiner tip: keep answers in bullet form, one inference per bullet, with brief textual anchor.