1. Intermediate 2 Poetry

2. 2008, question 8 Choose a poem about a strong relationship – for example, between two people, or between a person and a place. Show how the poet, by the choice of content and the skilful use of techniques, helps you to appreciate the strength of the relationship.

3. Introduction Answer the question Give an opinion

4. Example The poem ‘The Thread’ is about a strong relationship with a person or place. Don Paterson by the choice of content and the skilful use of techniques, helps the reader to appreciate the strength of the relationship. 8.

5. Example The poem ‘The Thread’ gives a moving account of the relationship of a father with his son. Don Paterson shows his love for his son and that the terrible experience of almost losing him has made the family strong. The structure of the poem and the use of language, particularly the central image of “the thread” helps the reader understand the bond between father and son and how it is strengthened by the bad experiences. Understanding – what the poem is about Analysis – language used in the poem Evaluation – personal response

6. SEXY paragraph S – Statement In the first quatrain we can see how hurt Paterson felt when he almost lost his son. E – Evidence “They caught him by the thread of his one breath” X – eXplanation “caught” suggests they only just saved him at the last minute “the thread” – short, fragile “one breath” – almost dying Y – Your response The first four lines give an extremely clear picture of a father frightened of losing his son and distraught about the possibility. The reader imagines themselves losing a member of their family and we see how much he cares about his son.

7. Sonnet – 14 line poem A traditional form of love poem

8. Second quatrain Tries to forget past and enjoy present: “today”, “here” Grateful – “what higher will” – miracle “you” – talking to Jamie “swaying wingspan” – flying, metaphor, free of problems “roaring” – powerful, healthy Proud Inspired, they keep him going

9. Paragraphs The first sentence of each paragraph must refer back to the question – relationship, father’s feelings about his son Introduce quotes “what higher will” – explain quotes in own words Don’t repeat yourself Your response is vital: “The reader feels…”

10. The last six lines – the sestet “and” links to the previous four lines, still enjoying the moment. Continues the image: “out-revving every engine” Exaggeration/Hyperbole The boys are the most powerful, important thing in his world “two-year-old” – a while ago “somehow” – can’t believe Jamie is so healthy and that Paterson is so lucky

11. There is another change – the end-stopped line and the italics emphasise The past intrudes – the worry returns “that long week” – dragged on. The “Now” in the same line shows the past and present are connected “the thread” image returns as a positive image of the family’s love “holding” – embracing, strong Focuses on his son “tiny house…white dot” – far away Connected and close