1. The Great Gatsby Chapter Two What are the ingredients of a successful 1(a) question? (particularly when you’re dealing with a novel rather than a poem)

2. In groups, your first task: Read through the essay on Chapter 2 Take 3 different coloured highlighters: one for Form, one for Structure, one for Language Highlight the essay with the relevant colour wherever you feel that feature is being discussed Next to each highlighting, and using the mark sheet, try to suggest the band you think the discussion deserves

3. Swap groups. Now, Task Two: In the margin, write a brief summary for each paragraph of the role you think that paragraph plays within the essay (for example: for paragraph 1, you might write: locates Ch. 2 within the structure of the novel – relating back to Ch. 1 and forward to the ending)

4. Another swap; now, task three: Using your response to the model essay, discuss within your group this question: If you’re writing about narrative methods in a chapter of a novel, what would you say are the key elements that a good essay should include?

5. Supplementary question: How well does this model essay meet the criteria you have decided on?

6. General advice: Remember that the mark scheme does not specify content: any relevant discussion should be rewarded However, there is a danger that too much concentration on details – however well managed – will overlook the idea of the chapter’s role within the novel

7. This might be a helpful rule of thumb: Introduce your essay looking at the chapter’s function in the plot (what important things happen?) Always write about voice (ticking the “form” box) and aim to address 2 other aspects of narrative (settings; time and sequence; characterisation; point of view....) Aim to discuss at least 3 different uses of language Conclude by linking the chapter into key themes in the novel, and glancing ahead to what comes next.