Unseen Poetry: Comparing Two Poems

    AQA
    GCSE

    The 'Unseen Poetry: Comparing Two Poems' component requires candidates to synthesize analysis of two previously unstudied texts, focusing on connections in theme, tone, and writer's methods. Using the exemplar pairing of Tennyson's 'The Eagle' (Text A) and Belloc's 'The Vulture' (Text B), the task demands a rigorous evaluation of how different poets approach a shared subject—in this case, birds of prey. Text A presents a Romantic, majestic vision of nature through elevated language and static imagery, while Text B offers a grotesque, humorous, or pragmatic counter-narrative. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to move fluently between texts, identifying convergent themes (power, nature) and divergent attitudes (awe vs. revulsion), supported by precise textual evidence and structural analysis.

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    Objectives
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    Exam Tips
    4
    Pitfalls
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    Key Terms
    4
    Mark Points

    What You Need to Demonstrate

    Key skills and knowledge for this topic

    • AO1: Maintain a critical, exploratory conceptualised response to the task (assessed in Q27.1)
    • AO2: Analyse the language, form and structure used by a writer to create meanings and effects (Primary focus of Q27.2)
    • AO2: Compare how writers use methods to convey feelings or ideas (The specific requirement for the 8-mark question)
    • AO4: Use a range of vocabulary and sentence structures for clarity, purpose and effect (Assessed in Q27.1 only)

    Example Examiner Feedback

    Real feedback patterns examiners use when marking

    • "You have identified the theme, now compare the specific methods (metaphor, tone, structure) used to present it"
    • "Avoid retelling what happens in the second poem; focus entirely on how the poet generates the feeling"
    • "Your comparison is valid, but you need to quote directly from the second poem to support your assertion"
    • "This is a strong analysis of language; to access higher marks, compare the structural choices (e.g., sonnet form vs free verse)"

    Marking Points

    Key points examiners look for in your answers

    • AO1: Maintain a critical, exploratory conceptualised response to the task (assessed in Q27.1)
    • AO2: Analyse the language, form and structure used by a writer to create meanings and effects (Primary focus of Q27.2)
    • AO2: Compare how writers use methods to convey feelings or ideas (The specific requirement for the 8-mark question)
    • AO4: Use a range of vocabulary and sentence structures for clarity, purpose and effect (Assessed in Q27.1 only)

    Examiner Tips

    Expert advice for maximising your marks

    • 💡Allocate strictly 10-15 minutes for the comparison question; do not encroach on the time for the 24-mark analysis
    • 💡Identify 3 distinct points of comparison focused on methods (e.g., 'Both use enjambment to show...')
    • 💡Use the 'Both... whereas...' structure to force comparative analysis of methods immediately
    • 💡Do not waste time on a formal introduction for the 8-mark question; start directly with the first comparative point

    Common Mistakes

    Pitfalls to avoid in your exam answers

    • Treating the 8-mark comparison (Q27.2) as a full essay with introduction and conclusion
    • Comparing content or story (what happens) rather than methods (how it is written)
    • Repeating analysis of Poem A from the previous question without linking it to Poem B
    • Attempting to force context (AO3) into the response where it is not assessed or required

    Key Terminology

    Essential terms to know

    Likely Command Words

    How questions on this topic are typically asked

    Compare
    What are the similarities
    How does the poet
    Examine
    Explore

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