WHAT SKILLS AND UNDERSTANDINGS DO I NEED TO DEMONSTRATE? HOW CAN I MAKE SURE I HAVE PRODUCED A HIGH QUALITY RESPONSE? (OR TWO!) Literature : Close Passage Analysis and Exam Preparation Year 12 Literature 2014

Exam Texts

SAC Criteria “Develops a plausible and relevant interpretation of the text that is complex and perceptive and often individual, supported by detailed evidence of close reading of the set passage/s. Displays a highly developed awareness of how key passages and /or moments in the text and features of the text contribute to an interpretation based on thorough and detailed analysis. Demonstrates a subtle sense of how views and values are suggested in the text. Response is coherent, detailed and highly expressive.”

Examination Assessment Criteria Exam Assessment Criteria 1. Understanding of the text demonstrated in a relevant and plausible interpretation. 2. Ability to write expressively and coherently to present an interpretation. 3. Understanding of how views and values may be suggested in the text. 4. Analysis of how key passages and/or moments in the text contribute to an interpretation. 5. Analysis of the features of a text and how they contribute to an interpretation. 6. Analysis and close reading of textual details to support a coherent and detailed interpretation of the text.

Exam Criterion 1. ( “Understanding of the text demonstrated in a relevant and plausible interpretation.” Plausible: credible, convincing, true to the text Relevant: presents a close analysis of the passages; is focused on the text Interpretation: it offers an argument about the meanings evident in the passages and the text as a whole

Exam Criterion 2. “Ability to write expressively and coherently” Varied, sophisticated vocabulary A complex argument that takes into account character motivation, tensions, conflicting impulses Formal, precise and specific language (avoid clichés, make each word earn its place) An engaging tone of voice that catches the spirit of the text, is lively and engaging Evaluative phrases / value statements that offer a judgement Grouping of 2, 3 adjectives that reinforce particular impression Complex sentences that elaborate and expand the key idea

... Coherent writing Coherent writing: Is structured, organised in paragraphs: Introduction, Main Body and Conclusion Is organised in connected sentences within the paragraphs Explores one idea per paragraph, in detail, moving confidently from the passage to the wider text Uses linking words to ensure paragraphs flow logically and smoothly Integrates quotations seamlessly

Exam Criterion 3. “Understanding of how views and values may be suggested in the text.” Explain how characters are associated with the ideals, attitudes, morals and standards of the society in which the text was constructed. Discuss the author’s concerns, beliefs, point of view, social standards and personal qualities they endorse or condemn (don’t use the phrase “views and values” in your discussion). Show how the text positions the reader’s response to characters and ideas (e.g. by using irony; by ‘rewarding’ or ‘punishing’ characters to endorse or condemn their values, etc.). This is of course about the author’s ‘message’ so make sure you use the author’s name in your discussion, mention the author by name at least once in every paragraph.

Exam Criterion 4. “Analysis of how key passages and/or moments in the text contribute to an interpretation.” This is about the context so you need to be able to locate the passages within the text: What has happened just before, what happens next? Who is speaking to whom? Why is the passage significant to the text as a whole? What has taken place between the passages in terms of plot and character development? Look for beginnings, turning points, crisis points, resolutions, special insights into one or two characters.

Exam Criterion 5. “Analysis of the features of a text and how they contribute to an interpretation.” This is about linking form and meaning, about how the language features reflect the characters’/authors’ concerns. It is about being able to identify the author’s techniques and strategies: narrative voice, irony, atmosphere, imagery, tension, symbolism, juxtaposition, conflict, dichotomy, tone, binary oppositions, inner monologues as well as: soliloquies, stage directions... Don’t simply name a feature: explain how it works in the text to engage the reader and convey meaning.

Criterion 6. “Analysis and close reading of textual details to support a coherent and detailed interpretation of the text.” Use the passages! No pre-prepared responses! Use individual words, phrases, images in the passage as a way into a discussion of the text’s concerns. Use evidence from the passage to support your statements about the text. Always explain the significance of the quotes you use.

Furthermore... Refer to the text’s genre Refer to the socio-historical Context of the text Use the correct metalanguage Get the spelling of all names, correct For each passage ensure you identify and discuss: Character; Setting; Action, movement within the passage/s; Ideas that will be the focus of your interpretation / discussion; Style, Language Features; Links between passages and to the wider text.

‘Magic words’... A start Explores Implies Suggests Evokes Questions Intensifies Challenges Reinforces Highlights Affirms Reflects Illustrates Creates Elicits Conveys

The Exam “Use one or more of the passages selected as a basis for a discussion of...” 15 minutes reading time: Read the passages; make the links, the connections and the contrasts; decide which two you will focus on; decide on your Interpretation and 3 – 4 supporting Ideas. 2 hours writing time – 1 hour per text: Stick to that! Both essays are worth the same mark; this is where timed practice before the exam will come in handy. And of course, knowing your texts well means you won’t be wasting time trying to remember and decide what you should write about.

Preparation You have actually been preparing for this exam all year. All the texts and Outcomes are linked to the exam criteria: views and values; form and meaning; justifying an interpretation; adapting an author’s style, language features to create an original text – It is now a case of collating all your notes, identifying gaps in your knowledge of the texts and putting in as much close passage analysis practice as possible. The rest as they say......