PEE An introduction

The Building Block Approach Literature essays are like: Lego models

The PEE Point (Context) Evidence Explanation Think of the PEE as the basic building block of a critical evaluation. Each block consists of: POINT - which relates to the question you are asked, or the purpose of your essay. Include the CONTEXT – this explains what is going on at the time of the quotation. EVIDENCE - To prove this point, you must have evidence, a quote, from the text. EXPLANATION - which shows why the quotation proves the point you are trying to make. You should also pick out words, expressions, techniques from your quotation which will back up ideas for your essay question.

The Basic Plan Introduction (START) Name the poem and the poet Refer to the question or task Give a brief account of plot Give a brief account of theme/techniques Body of the essay 3-4 PEEs - always referring to the task Conclusion Name the work and author Refer to the task Sum up points already made. Give a personal reaction to the text.

“Many poems are concerned with a sense of loss or deep sadness at a particular event. Examine the techniques by which a poet, in one poem, conveys those emotions.” (Point) The poet makes interesting use of word choice throughout the poem to convey a sense of sadness. (Context) When the boy is waiting in the sick bay he listens to the school-bell ringing: (Evidence) “Counting bells knelling classes to a close” (Explanation) The choice of the word “knelling” has connotations of church and funeral services and helps to establish a sense of sadness. 5

Critical Essay Question Choose a poem which vividly describes a character. Briefly state who the character is and then go on to show how the poetic techniques used make the description vivid. In your answer you must refer to the text and to such relevant features as: word choice, tone, imagery, structure, content, rhythm, theme or any other appropriate feature. 6

Point: The poet uses the image of a gorilla to create a vivid picture of the “Brooklyn Cop”. Context: In the opening line we are told that the cop is: Evidence: “Built like a gorilla” Explanation: This simile creates a vivid picture of the cop as someone who is intimidating, uncivilised, perhaps territorial and violent.

Poetry essays and analysis: organising techniques The poet achieves his purpose through WORD CHOICE The poet achieves his purpose through IMAGERY Poetic techniques The poet achieves his purpose through STRUCTURE The poet achieves his purpose through TONE WITS