Introduction to the set text paper Higher English Introduction to the set text paper

Set Text Learning Intention: We are developing our understanding of the course. Success Criteria: I can – Differentiate between the set text and critical essay paper Understand what is expected in the set text section of the exam

Set Text The new Higher English exam includes a Scottish set text section. Instead of writing two critical essays you will write one critical essay and answer a series of textual analysis questions on an assigned text.

Exam Paper Instructions

Example Questions for ‘For My Grandmother Knitting’

Marking Guidelines Q45) Candidates should analyse how the poet’s use of poetic technique helps to clarify the main ideas of the poem. 2 marks may be awarded for detailed/insightful comment plus reference; 1 mark for more basic comment plus reference. 0 marks for reference/quotation alone. Note that you DO NOT gain marks for quotations. Marks will be awarded for the quality of your answer (much like in Close Reading) Even though you do not receive marks for quoting alone, you must still quote from/ reference the poem to show that you have a deep understanding of the poems.

Set Text 10 Mark Question Q49) Candidates should discuss the importance of the theme of memory in Lochhead’s work and should refer to appropriate textual evidence to support their discussion. 0 marks for reference/quotation alone. Candidates can answer in bullet points in this final question, or write a number of linked statements.

Set Text 10 Mark Question 10 mark breakdown: 2 marks: Identification of commonality (2) (e.g.: theme, characterisation, use of imagery, setting, or any other key element...). Link to the question. 2 marks: From the extract given make one relevant reference to technique/idea/feature (1) and one appropriate comment. Remember to link to the question (1) (maximum of 2 marks only for discussion of extract) 6 marks: From any other poem(s) studied. As above (x3) for up to 6 marks OR more detailed comment x2 for up to 6 marks. Thus, the final 6 marks can be gained by a combination of 3, 2 and 1 marks depending on the level of depth/detail/insight. The aim would be to encourage quality of comment, rather than quantity of references.

Set Text 10 Mark Question CRTAL Commonality Reference Technique Commonality x 2 Reference and technique from poem 1 (aka the given poem) Analysis of reference and technique for poem 1 in relation to the question. Reference and technique from poem 2 Analysis of reference and technique for poem 2 in relation to the question. Remember to try to compare and/or contrast the two poems. Remember that you can refer to more than one of Lochhead’s poems. Reference Technique Analysis Link CRTAL