characterised by subtle distinctions or variations

assess the value, significance or quality of something in relation to something else

support or maintain a belief, decision or idea

question or dispute a belief, decision or idea

Analysing an extended and developed response on Edexcel 'Conflict' poetry

English

In 'Edexcel Belonging Poetry continued', pupils used a range of reading skills to aid the supported decoding of challenging poems. In 'Unseen Poetry', pupils use these reading skills to decode texts with independence. 

In 'Edexcel Belonging Poetry', pupils compared the language, form and structure of a variety of poems connected by the themes of culture and belonging. In 'Edexcel Belonging Poetry continued', pupils work on making more nuanced comparisons focusing on the final three poems: *Poppies*, *Catrin* and *Cousin Kate*..

Poetry anthology: continued study

Depiction of war, threats of war, death or the aftermath of war.

Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

Depiction or discussion of violence or fighting, including threats of violence or the aftermath of violence.

deciding which text or idea you think is most interesting

identifying similarities and differences between two things

assess the quality or significance of something in relation to something else

using quotations from both texts to support your ideas

providing a brief summary of each text, linked to the question focus

identifying how both poets use language, form and structure

using comparative vocabulary to indicate the relationship between the poems

Which of these help to create an effective introduction to a comparative analytical response?

using context to explore a writer's influences.

feature-spotting (leading with identification of methods).

using tentative (uncertain) language to indicate personal interpretations.

reviewing each text to decide which you prefer.

using shorter quotes and always aim for at least 2 lines of text.

When writing analytical paragraphs, you should avoid ...

considering why you think the poems take such similar/different approaches.

analysing at least one other quotation from each text.

summarising the similarities and differences you've identified.

trying to challenge the arguments you've been making so far.

any relevant links to wider context that help shape your interpretation.

it suggests possible experiences/events that may have inspired the poet

it tells us whether the poet was a skilled writer or not

it gives an insight into the beliefs/attitudes when a text was written

it helps us to work out which poem is more effective

it doesn't - it's just extra information you need to know

How can contextual knowledge shape our understanding of a text?

the first sentence of an essay where you introduce your overarching argument

a sentence where you introduce both texts you will be comparing

the first sentence of an analysis paragraph where you introduce your argument

a sentence where you comment on the wider context of one or both texts

explain your contextual knowledge of each text.

compare how both writers use literary methods.

explore connections between the attitudes and key ideas in each poem.

Effective analysis should avoid re-telling the story of the poem and should instead ...

knowledge of which literary methods feature in a certain poem

awareness of the era in which a poem was written and published

knowledge of how a poem uses rhyme and rhythm

awareness of the era in which a poem is set

knowledge of the writer's life and influences

Which of the following is an example of contextual knowledge?

Both teachers worked hard to help their students get the best grades.

She studied diligently, however her exam scores didn't improve.

Revision is a good way to improve grades, as is practising your exam routine.

Which of the following sentences uses comparative conjunctions to indicate a difference?

Hardy describes how "[q]uaint and curious war is!"

Hardy reflects on the conflict ..."I shot him dead because—" using a blunt tone"

Explaining his actions, the speaker declares ("Because he was my foe,").

Hardy concludes the poem, Just so: my foe of course he was.

Which of these sentences uses a quotation correctly?

analysis of language, form and/or structure

Which of the following should you include in every analytical paragraph?

Content guidance

Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

Adult supervision recommended

Starter Quiz