2010_s26_gt — 2026 May-June Literature in English 2010 Grade Threshold · Cambridge CAIE O Level

Listing literary devices without analysing their effects — 'logging' features instead of exploring them

“Less successful responses, particularly to poetry, simply logged features without close analysis of precise ways in which writers uses these devices to create specific effects.”— 2010 Paper 1, May/June 2023

How to fix: Every time you name a device (metaphor, enjambment, caesura), immediately follow with: (1) the specific example from the text, (2) the precise effect it creates on the reader/audience, and (3) how it connects to the question. For example, do not write 'Thomas uses enjambment to increase the pace.' Instead write: 'The enjambment in [quote] mirrors the relentless fall of rain, reinforcing the desolation Thomas conveys.' If you cannot explain a specific effect, leave the device out.

Ignoring the key words of the question — writing general character/theme essays instead of answering what is asked

“Questions should not be seen as mere prompts for candidates to unload all information they know about the poem or character or theme mentioned in the question.”— 2010 Paper 1, May/June 2023

How to fix: Before writing, underline the key words in the question (e.g. 'strikingly conveys', 'dramatic', 'disturbing impressions', 'entertaining'). Write these key words at the top of your plan. Every paragraph must link back explicitly to those key words. If the question says 'how does the writer make this moment dramatic?', each point must explain WHY it is dramatic, not just describe what happens.

Writing lengthy introductions with irrelevant biographical or historical context

“Those candidates who offered lengthy introductions, with extraneous biographical or social context material, simply delayed the actual beginning of their answer to the question.”— 2010 Paper 1, May/June 2023

How to fix: Limit your introduction to 2-3 sentences maximum. State the key focus of the question and signal your argument. Do not include author biography, historical background, or a list of devices you plan to discuss. Start analysing the text in your first paragraph. You have 45 minutes — every sentence about context that does not address the question is wasted time.