Summary of the Lecture on CSEC English B Paper 2 Essay Writing
In this lecture, Miss Wallace from Gobian Academy explains how to write an effective essay for the CSEC English B Paper 2 exam. She uses the play Twelfth Night by William Shakespeare as an example throughout the lecture. The exam requires answering one essay question each from drama, prose, and poetry sections. Miss Wallace breaks down the essay question into four parts and explains a structured approach to address each part using the PEEP method (Point, Evidence, Explanation, Point).
Key Points from the Lecture
Overview of CSEC English B Paper 2
- It consists of three sections: drama, prose, and poetry.
- You must answer one essay question from each section.
Four Parts of a Typical CSEC Essay Question
- Quote/Theme Indicator: Sets the theme for the essay.
- Description/Discussion: Discusses circumstances related to the theme.
- Character Response: Describes how characters respond to circumstances.
- Literary/Dramatic Device: Discusses how a specific device illustrates the theme.
Example Essay Question
- Nothing is more noble than loyalty: Write an essay discussing two characters who show devotion to their employers in Shakespeare's Twelfth Night, describe the circumstances, discuss a similarity or difference in their devotion, and highlight a dramatic technique used.
Structuring Your Essay
Introduction
- Capture attention using quotations, questions, or anecdotes.
- Include the literature title, author's name, and relevant background.
- End with a thesis statement that outlines the essay.
Body (PEEP Method)
- Point: Introduce the paragraph’s main idea.
- Evidence: Use quotations or descriptions to support the point.
- Explanation: Explain how the evidence supports the point.
- Point (restated): Conclude with a restatement or summary of the point.
Conclusion
- Restate the thesis in new words.
- Summarize the main points addressed.
- Comment on the literary work from a different perspective without introducing new topics.
Example from ’Twelfth Night’
- Discusses the characters Viola and Malvolio’s devotion to their employers, Orsino and Olivia respectively.
- Highlights how dialogue is used as a dramatic technique to showcase devotion.
Tips for Success
- Always link back to the essay question throughout your essay to stay on topic.
- Utilize the PEEP method for each paragraph to maintain a structured response.
- Revisit the essay question occasionally to ensure all parts are adequately addressed.
Final Thoughts
- Ensure that the essay comprehensively covers the tackled elements, using provided literary evidence and analytical discussion.
- The approach suggested aims to maximize the attainment of available marks by demonstrating thorough understanding and analysis.
Miss Wallace concludes the lecture with encouragement and reminders for students to apply these methods effectively in their essays and to embrace the exam as a chance to exhibit their understanding and analytical skills.
For further guidance and practice, students are encouraged to view additional lessons and examples provided by Miss Wallace at Gobian Academy, available through the description links.