Introduction
Exploring great literature and engaging non-fiction texts is rewarding, but writing essays can be very challenging. Our guides and helpful tips will help you develop your writing skills and make sure you have the right approach to answering even the most difficult questions.
Essay Structure
Thoughts, Evidence and Analysis
The TEA model of essay writing offers an effective way to analyse texts because it enables you to move freely between arguments and examples.
References To The text
When you are responding to text and asked to offer an interpretation, you must support your argument with evidence. If you want to be more accurate and precise in your selection, these guides will help you use quotations and develop your ability to refer to the text more effectively.
Analysing Methods
The examiners and moderators want to see an assured interpretation of the methods used by the writers to deliver their narratives. You need to discuss the effects of language, poetic devices and form on the reader and use the appropriate critical terminology to support your analysis.
However, instead of scrutinising the writer’s style, many candidates simply comment on the image and mention the technique. These guides will help you develop your response to these methods and meet the demands of the mark schemes.
Annotating Poetry
Annotating poetry is an important skill you need to learn if you want to succeed in English Literature. It will help you remain firmly focused on the writer’s use of language devices and poetic techniques. This guide, which can be found in our Essay Skills section, will develop your ability to engage closely with a poem.
Point Example Explanation
The Point Example Explanation (P.E.E.) essay style is a simple structure used to build clear and persuasive paragraphs. It usually consists of three parts:
- Point – Make a clear statement or argument that establishes the main idea of the paragraph.
- Example – Provide evidence to support your point, such as a quotation, fact, or specific detail.
- Explanation – Explain how your example supports your point and links back to the essay question.
This method helps keep writing focused and well-organised.
Understanding Essay Questions
Revising for an English Literature exam is stressful so it is no surprise students look for any advantage. This guide will take you through how you can “unpack” an essay question and the five essential things you really need to know about the those questions.
