Essay Structure

Question 1

8 steps to a Q1 essay?

Answer 1

1. Contextualise passage in narrative arc
2. Atwood’s purpose
3. Socio Historical context
4. Setting.
5. Close analysis.
6. Character development.
7. Connections.
8. Views and values.

Question 2

8 steps to a Q2 paragraph?

Answer 2

1. Contention in terms of concept
2. Atwood’s purpose
3. Sociohistorical context
4. Close analysis
5. Theoretical ideas - Szalay
6. Character analysis
7. Connection to another moment
8. Views & values

Question 3

Steps for the intro to part B?

Answer 3

1. Hinge quote from the poem
2. Word/phrase/image connection from Poem 1
3. Word/phrase/image connection from poem 2
4. Contention

Question 4

8 steps for the body paragraphs in part B?

Answer 4

1. Short sharp topic sentence or close analysis
2. Establish complexity
3. Visual features (simile, metaphor, imagery)
4. Sound features
5. Connection to other 2 poems + close analysis
6. Establish connection between reader and speaker
7. Offer insight on big-picture significance of small connections
8. Zoom out (views and values, purpose and insights, audience response)