How to Study for Leaving Cert English; Higher/Ordinary level. How to Structure Revision. Paper 1, 2

The hosts introduce the topic of Leaving Cert English, highlighting it as the first exam and discussing its importance for setting the tone for other subjects. They mention covering key aspects like comparative, composition, poetry, and Shakespeare, and aim to provide tips for achieving a high grade (H1).

The discussion moves to the English composition, a significant part of Paper 1. The hosts advise playing to personal strengths, choosing a composition type (e.g., speech, article, personal essay) that suits the student's abilities, and emphasizing the importance of planning before writing to avoid running out of ideas. They also warn against common pitfalls like ending a story with 'it was all a dream'.

It's crucial to understand what examiners are looking for in each composition type. For example, a speech needs rhetorical questions and a formal register, while a short story requires descriptive language and dialogue. Consulting marking schemes is recommended to align writing with examiner expectations.

Paper 1 also includes reading comprehensions. The hosts suggest planning these shorter pieces too and managing time effectively to avoid going overboard. Strict time allocation for each section is vital to ensure all questions are attempted, even if it means leaving a piece unfinished to move on.

Paper 2 is described as more demanding due to the sheer volume of writing required, covering Shakespeare (Macbeth for 2019), poetry, and comparative studies. The comparative essay is discussed, with a recommendation to choose the 30 and 40-mark questions over the 70-mark one due to less risk. The key is constant comparison between texts, backed by evidence and quotes.

Learning quotes for Shakespeare and poetry is crucial. Tips include reviewing them repeatedly, trying different memorization techniques (like recording oneself), and most importantly, understanding the quotes' meaning and context to use them effectively. Students are encouraged to provide their personal interpretation and analysis, rather than just summarizing plots, making their essays engaging for examiners.

For poetry, students should embrace expressing personal feelings and interpretations, making their responses unique. Quality over quantity is stressed, with four or five poems recommended for analysis. For unseen poetry, examiners are lenient, and focusing on poetic techniques and personal interpretation is key. The foundational skills gained from other sections prepare students for unseen poetry.

The top three tips are: 1) Read and answer the question asked precisely. 2) Keep responses personal, especially for poetry and Shakespeare, focusing on individual interpretation. 3) Focus on learning and understanding quotes to effectively support arguments. These strategies are vital for maximizing marks.

StudyClix offers numerous resources like notes, videos, and sample answers to aid in English preparation. Students are encouraged to use these platforms, including discussion forums, and reach out for assistance or feedback. Social media channels are also available for further engagement and support.