A game of polo with a headless goat

• What is the title of the text that students must study for the Pearson Edexcel International GCSE English Language A qualification?

  A Game of Polo with a Headless Goat

  
• What does the guide to A Game of Polo with a Headless Goat include?

  • Overview of the text
  • Summary of the text
  • Themes, ideas, and perspectives
  • Presentation of ideas and perspectives by Levine
• Who is the author of A Game of Polo with a Headless Goat?

  Emma Levine
• What is the main subject of A Game of Polo with a Headless Goat?

  Levine's experience trying to photograph a donkey race in Karachi, Pakistan.
• How is the passage of A Game of Polo with a Headless Goat structured?

  • It tells the story of the race from beginning to end.
  • Opens with Levine finding a viewing spot.
  • Describes the chaos of the race.
  • Ends with confusion over the winner.

  
• What happens just as Levine thinks the donkey race is not going ahead?


  She sees the approaching donkeys and vehicles, leading to chaos.
• How does Levine's position in the vehicle contribute to the narrative?

  It adds to the sense of chaos as her young driver tries to get to the front.
• What is the outcome of the donkey race in A Game of Polo with a Headless Goat?

  The race finishes in confusion and arguments over which donkey won.
• What revelation does Levine's young driver make at the end of the race?

  He reveals that he does not have a driving license as he is under the legal driving age.
• What are the key themes in A Game of Polo with a Headless Goat?

  • East versus West
  • Cultural differences
• How does the title A Game of Polo with a Headless Goat reflect the theme of East versus West?

  The title juxtaposes the Western game of polo with the absurd image of a headless goat, highlighting cultural contrasts.
• What does Levine's use of parenthesis in “(no lane discipline here)” signify?

  It shows her Western perspective about the rules of the road.
• How does Levine use cultural references in her narrative?

  She uses references like “Wacky Races” and “Formula One without rules” to provide relatable comparisons for Western readers.
• What cultural differences are highlighted at the end of the passage?

  Yaqoob finds it hilarious that he is underage and doesn't have a license, while Levine views it as a breach of rules.
• What does the tension at the end of the race suggest about the local culture?

  It suggests a lack of concern for rules and laws governing the event.
• How does Levine describe the welfare of the donkeys during the race?

  She notes that there is very little concern for their welfare as they race with various vehicles.
• What happens to the leading donkey at the end of the race?

  The leading donkey falls at the end of the race.
• How does Levine present her ideas and perspectives in the text?


  • Uses various language and structural techniques
  • Begins in medias res
  • Employs chronological structure
  • Utilizes colloquial language
  • Incorporates short sentences
  • Adds humor
  • Uses imagery
  • Juxtaposes different cultural perspectives
  • Employs onomatopoeia
  • Maintains a judgmental tone
  • Applies the rule of three
  • Uses personification

  
• What effect does beginning the passage in medias res have on the reader?

  It adds to the sense of excitement.
• How does the chronological structure of the race contribute to the narrative?

  It creates an illusion of order and control, which is ironic given the chaos of the race.
• Why does Levine use colloquial language in her writing?

  To make the passage relatable to Western readers.
• What is the significance of the abrupt ending “The race was over”?

  It contrasts with the previous complex sentences, creating an anti-climax.
• How does humor function in Levine's narrative?

  It entertains and highlights the cultural differences she observes.
• What effect does the imagery of “In front of a cloud of fumes and dust” have on the reader?

  It evokes chaotic, mad-cap cartoons, enhancing the sense of disorder.
• What does the juxtaposition in Levine's observations imply?

  It warns against imposing Western ideals on different cultures.
• How does onomatopoeia contribute to the narrative?

  It emphasizes the chaos and excitement of the race.
• How does the tone of the passage reflect Levine's perspective on the event?

  It is judgmental, implying that the culture is perceived as uncivilized compared to her norms.

  
• What is the purpose of the rule of three in the phrase “voices were raised, fists were out and tempers rising”?

  It builds tension and atmosphere, indicating a situation getting out of control.

  
• What does the personification of vehicles “roaring up in their wake” suggest?

  It suggests a fierce pursuit, enhancing the chaotic atmosphere of the race.