Fundamentals of Essay Writing in Response to a Poetry Task

Overview

• Discusses fundamentals of effective essay writing in response to a poetry task
• Brief duration to maintain attention (approx. 6-8 mins)
• Mind maps available on Moodle for class members, purchasable via email for others

Importance of Poetry Essay

• Featured in Paper 2, Section 3
• Worth 50 marks (12.5% overall)
• One hour to answer

Time Management Tips

Paper 1

• Total: 170 minutes
• Allocate 70+ minutes to composition (worth 25%)
• Spend 60-70 minutes on Question A
• 30-40 minutes on Question B
• Finish with composition due to its high value

Paper 2

• Total: 200 minutes
• Allocate 60 minutes each to main essays (Macbeth essay, study poetry, comparative essay)
• 20 minutes at the end for unseen poetry (worth 5%)

Preparation for Poetry Essays

• Study 4 poets with 4 poems each, best to study 5 poets with 5 poems each for flexibility
• Essays should be around 1000 words (approx. 4-5 pages in answer booklet)
• Every question includes a language element (imagery, rhythm, techniques)

Key Areas to Focus

Language Elements

• Imagery creation
• Rhythmic techniques
• Impactful delivery techniques

Sample Questions and Practice

• Evaluate stylistic elements (e.g., engaging style, vividness, provocative imagery)
• Practice analyzing poems with specific questions in mind (e.g., engaging style, diverse imagery)

Common Mistakes

• Lack of explanation for cited examples (e.g., what makes the language aesthetically pleasing)
• Over-reliance on rote learning essays (restricts ability to answer specific questions)
• Importance of analyzing and explaining points thoughtfully and with evidence

Essay Writing Tips

Structure

• Opening Sentences: Should be short, direct, use keywords, and show confidence
• Thesis: Clearly state response to the question in the opening paragraph
• Optimizing Opening: Consider starting with a quote, avoid phrases like "In this essay I will discuss..."

Continuity and Coherence

• Ensure logical sequencing and links between paragraphs for coherence
• Development Paragraphs: Follow RIC (Relevance, Informed, Contextualized) rules
• Use quotation and detailed analysis sparingly to support points
• Conclusion Paragraph: Refer back to the question and mirror opening paragraph ideas
• Circular Structure: Aim for a coherent, circular structure

Examination Criteria

• Knowledge accumulation of poet's work, poem meanings, and techniques
• Ability to express knowledge articulately
• Ability to analyze evidence in light of the question
• Balance these elements rather than focusing solely on memorization

Final Takeaways

• Utilize mind maps for structure
• Email for additional resources if not in the class

Note: The video is catered to promote student engagement and effective study habits for upcoming examinations.