Topic 4 of 5 · Form 3
Unseen texts
A previously unseen poem or prose extract with a question about how the writer presents a situation, character or feeling.
Notes for this topic 1 file, in order
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The unseen task
A previously unseen poem or prose extract with a question about how the writer presents a situation, character or feeling.
Method
- Read twice: first for overall meaning, then closely with annotations.
- Identify the subject, speaker or narrator, and tone.
- Note striking language, images and structural features.
- Plan a short argument answering the question.
- Write in paragraphs, with quotations and analysis, moving through the text in a logical order.
- Conclude with your overall response.
Responding personally
Show genuine engagement: "I find the ending unsettling because…" – supported by evidence.
Common errors
Paraphrasing without analysis, spotting features without effects, ignoring the question's focus, and speculating without textual support.
Exam tip: Spend about a quarter of your time reading and planning – a clear plan makes the answer focused.
Check yourself
- How many times should you read an unseen text?
- What is a personal response?
- Why is paraphrasing alone weak?
Show answers
- At least twice.
- Your own reaction to the text, supported by evidence.
- It shows understanding of content but not analysis of how effects are created.
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