Of Mice and Men: Exam Technique Objectives: Know what kinds of questions to expect in the exam Understand what is expected from your answers Be able to use different planning techniques

What kind of questions? Always an essay-style answer Questions will focus on a theme, character, or another aspect of the book. Or you will be given a passage from the novel to analyse closely. For example: –“Well, I think Curley’s married…a tart.” What is your view of Curley’s wife? –Discuss Steinbeck’s use of natural settings in the novel. –Discuss whether you think George can be described as a hero or not. –What is the importance of the dreams the characters have in the novel?

How to plan an exam essay Planning saves time! It means you don’t have to think up ideas at the same time has trying to write. Helps you focus. Concentrate on mapping the structure of your ideas and on the quality of your expression. Planning techniques: 1.Mind maps: Place essay question in middle and use a different line for each key point. Have 4 or 5 key points, and for each at least one P.E.E. Label to decide on the order you will put these in. 2.Bullet points: Some students work best in a logical, ordered format.

Planning checklist Break down the question Brainstorm your ideas Choose your textual evidence Structure your argument: P.E.E Check your plan Use your plan!

Planning practise… Look at the handout on your desk. Using copies of the text, your notes and the example spider diagram, produce spider diagrams of ideas which could be included in an essay based on the themes provided. Make sure you locate quotations which could be used. You can work in pairs.

Example answers Look at the sample answer on your desk. This received a ‘C’ grade. Notice how every paragraph makes a new point. There is an introduction and conclusion Quotations are used to support ideas Read through carefully – you will be doing a timed essay soon and you should all get a ‘C’ grade!