Answering an exam style question Heroes

How does Robert Cormier present the character of Nicole in his novel? 20 marks 40 minutes Point , evidence, hook, explain, develop, evidence, link back to the question

Structuring your response: The first paragraph should introduce the argument you wish to make. Then jot down how the paragraphs that follow will develop this argument. Include details, examples and other possible points of view. Sum up your argument in the final paragraph.

How does Cormier present the character of nicole? Introduction: Nicole is important because of the effect she has on Francis and because she provides the link between the 2 main characters First point: Nicole’s importance is emphasised in her first description. Use of religious images shows that she is a symbol of purity and innocence – perhaps even symbolic of pre-war innocence? Second point: Cormier establishes the goodness of her character. She enjoys Francis’ company, she encourages him. She has a playful teasing attitude towards him. She shares her dreams for the future with him. Third point: Nicole is shown to be attractive and also inncoent. She enjoys the attention and status she gets from Larry but doesn’t understand his motives. Refer to the dancing and her use of his Christian name.

5. Fourth point: After the attack she blames Francis. She is angry 5. Fourth point: After the attack she blames Francis. She is angry. She later regrets this, which shows her good nature, but the attack has changed her, as symbolised by the writer’s description of her cut hair. 6. Conclusion: Sum up the character of Nicole. Remember – we see Nicole through the eyes of the narrator, Francis. Consider how this may affect our perception of her.

Using quotation effectively Grade D/E – Nicole is presented as being like a saint, “The pale purity of her face reminded me of the statue of St Therese in the niche next to Father Balthazar’s confessional” Grade c- Nicole’s purity is emphasised by Francis’ description of her as being like “the statue of St Therese” in St.Jude’s Church. This presents Nicole as a good character. Grade A – Religious imagery is used to emphasise Nicole’s innocence and purity as she is likened to the “statue of St Therese” in the church. The religious symbolism continues when Francis describes himself as a “knight at her feet”; his worship of her seems to elevate her above the ordinary, showing the depth of feeling that Francis has for Nicole which further emphasises her importance in the novel.

Grade C – you write in sufficient detail. 500-750 words in 40 minutes Grade C – you write in sufficient detail. 500-750 words in 40 minutes. You generally support what you say with evidence. You are able to comment on writer’s use of language, structure and form. What you write about is relevant and is easy for the examiner to follow. Grade A – You look beyond the obvious – You might question if Nicole really is such a good character. Is her rejection of Francis to blame for later events? Close analysis and apt selection of textual detail Convincing and imaginative interpretation – shows you have engaged with the text and have your own viewpoints

Page References for Nicole: 4 9-18 24 28 32 33 42-44 46-48 53 -56 60 -73 81 82 85 -95 9 7

Prepare for 40 minute exam question For Thursday’s lesson