Unseen Poetry Guide - Section B

• What is the focus of the first question in the exam?

  Initial unseen poem
• What is the focus of the second question in the exam?

  Comparing it to another unseen poem
• What is the difference between unseen poetry and the anthology section?

  No marks for context and tone understanding
• What are examiners checking for in your poetry analysis?

  Meaning behind the text and poetic devices
• How much time should you spend on the 24 mark question?

  30-35 minutes
• How much time is allocated for Paper 2 Section C?

  Around 45 minutes
• What should you do when first reading the poem?

  Read it over once calmly
• What should you consider if you don't understand the poem on the first read?

  Think about the title's connotations
• What should you annotate in the poem?

  Only label devices you can write about
• What should you keep in mind while annotating the poem?

  Always think about the question theme
• How many points should you come up with about the poem?

  2-4 points
• What should you analyze about the poem's structure?

  Rhyme scheme and syllable line length
• What should you gather before writing your essay?

  Key quotes linking to your points
• What should each paragraph in your essay include?

  • A clear point related to the poem
  • Supporting quotes
  • Analysis of poetic techniques
• What is the title of the poem by Edgar Allan Poe discussed?

  A Dream Within A Dream
• What is the first line of "A Dream Within A Dream"?

  Take this kiss upon the brow!
• What does the speaker reflect on in the poem?

  The fleeting nature of time and dreams
• What does the phrase "dream within a dream" suggest?

  Illusion and the complexity of reality
• What imagery is used in the poem to convey loss?

  Grains of golden sand slipping away
• What does the speaker plead for in the poem?

  To save one grain from the waves
• How does the structure of the poem contribute to its meaning?

  Rhyme scheme enhances the theme of fleeting time
• What should you do when faced with the 24 marker question?

  Start writing as soon as possible
• What is a good strategy for comparing two poems?

  Focus on similarities and differences
• How many paragraphs should you aim for in a comparative analysis?

  Three short or two longer paragraphs
• What should you include in your comparative points?

  Quotes and specific poetic techniques
• How should you link poetic techniques to your analysis?

  Explain their effect on the reader
• What analytical categories should you consider in Poe's poem?

  • Themes of time and dreams
  • Poetic devices used
  • Structure and form