Topic 5 of 5 · Form 3
Writing literature essays
Introduction (direct answer), developed paragraphs (point, evidence, analysis, link), conclusion (overall judgement).
Notes for this topic 1 file, in order
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Question types
- Passage-based questions: analyse a set extract in detail and connect it to the wider text.
- Discursive essays: explore a theme, character or method across the whole text.
- Empathic (empathetic) tasks: write in the voice of a character at a particular moment, showing knowledge of the text and an authentic voice.
Structure
Introduction (direct answer), developed paragraphs (point, evidence, analysis, link), conclusion (overall judgement).
Language for analysis
"The writer suggests…", "This conveys…", "The image of … emphasises…", "This contrasts with…", "The reader feels…"
Timing
Plan for about five minutes; leave time to check.
Worked example: Topic sentence for an essay on how a writer presents loneliness.
The writer presents loneliness most powerfully through the setting, which isolates the character physically and emotionally.
Exam tip: In empathic tasks, stay true to the character's knowledge, attitudes and voice at that exact point in the text.
Check yourself
- What is an empathic response?
- What should a topic sentence do?
- What must you do in a passage-based question besides analysing the passage?
Show answers
- Writing in the voice of a character at a specific moment, showing understanding of the text.
- Directly address the question and introduce the paragraph's main point.
- Relate it to the wider text where relevant (context within the work).
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