1. Higher Scottish Text
Final Question

2. Ten Marks
This question is the deal breaker! Answer it well and you can pass on this question alone.
There are a variety of ways to tackle this question…

3. Here’s what the marking scheme says…
Up to 2 marks can be achieved for identifying elements of commonality as identified in the question ie theme of sacrifice of the innocent
A further 2 marks can be achieved for reference to the extract given
6 additional marks can be awarded for discussion of similar references to at least one other part of the text by the writer
The aim would be to encourage quality of comment, rather than quantity of references.

4. In practice this means:
Identification of commonality (2) (eg: theme, characterisation, use of imagery, setting, or any other key element…)
Reference from the extract:
1 x relevant reference to technique/idea/feature (1)
1 x appropriate comment (1)
(maximum of 2 marks only for discussion of extract)
Reference from at least one other text/part of the text:
as above (x3) for up to 6 marks

5. What is commonality?
This is when you show an understanding of what is mentioned in the question (e.g. sacrificing the innocent) and relate it to the novel (e.g. Callum’s death, the forest, the war etc.).
At the start of your answer you should make a statement about this and explain briefly how it is linked throughout the novel

6. Example
Sacrificing the innocent is an important theme that runs throughout the novel, reminding us of the Deer Drive and the theme of good and evil. Calum’s conflict with Duror, and eventually his death, is a prime example of the weak and innocent being exploited by a more powerful and evil force. As well as this, the theme relates to the backdrop of the novel: nature (the forest) and the innocent lives are being sacrificed by the war.

7. Reference from the extract
“…in this war they tell me, babies are being burnt to death in their cradles.”
“I suppose it’s so that other babies will be able to grow up and live like free men.”
“Her dog was to be saved from the storm, but not my brother”

8. At least 3 References to else where
My advice would be to do as many as you can.
The conflict involving Duror, Calum and Neil ― the weak and vulnerable at the mercy of a more powerful and malevolent force
The world of nature (the wood) mirrors the world of war: Jenkins‟ use of animal imagery suggests a world of destruction and violence, culminating in the deer hunt
Calum‟s death: the culmination of Calum‟s Christ-like associations