What grade would you give this english question 1 (possible grade 8 Examplar)

Use this if you'd like to get some decent grades. Not too sure that it's an A* response though, asking on behalf of my friend.

QUESTION 2 From: https://filestore.aqa.org.uk/sample-papers-and-mark-schemes/2019/november/AQA-87001-QP-NOV19.PDF

EXTRACT: https://filestore.aqa.org.uk/sample-papers-and-mark-schemes/2019/november/AQA-87001-INS-NOV19.PDF

THE ANSWER:

Zoe's feelings at this point of the narrative seem to be bypassing normality. Her imagination has gotten the better of her. She begins to explore an alternate reality to her own, and becomes "an eagle". The animalistic imagery here continues throughout the extract, implying how her skis are "talons". This description implies how Zoe feels majestic, after overcoming her fears and being so close to nature, she feels at peace - and at one with nature. The author aims to illustrate this natural harmony through the anticipation that builds up. Zoe repeats "I am" to herself, and she waits "ready to swoop", implying that she's ready to set off on an adventure. The peaks also seem to come alive, as the mountain "breathes back at her". Powerful images are created here, and the writer aims to personify the "wind", to perhaps give it a more playful tone. However, this further helps us understand how Zoe feels alive and aware of the natural beauty surrounding her. The playful tone helps to match her excitement, and really entertains us as the reader. In contrast though, a "pre-echo" of death perhaps foreshadows upcoming events. It creates a sense of reluctancy within Zoe, implying that she still fears a bad outcome. This image of mortality brings us to Zoe's darker side of thinking, at unveils the dangers that nature can have.