, Understand the Question Before You Write
- Identify the key instruction: argue, discuss, evaluate, to what extent, justify.
- Identify the two opposing ideas or tensions in the topic.
o There is almost always a shift or contrast to address.
- Decide YOUR stance early.
Your stance must be nuanced (not just “yes” or “no”).
IEB loves a balanced argument, e.g.:
"Partially true, but ultimately…"
Plan a Clear Argument Path
Think of your essay as:
Claim → Evidence → Explanation
- Your introduction should state your position clearly.
- Each paragraph should:
o Make one clear point
o Support it with specific moments from the text
o Explain how that supports the essay’s argument
- Do not recount plot.
The markers know the story. Your job is to interpret, not narrate.
The 3-Level Evidence Rule
Your reference to the text must show depth:
Weak Better Excellent (IEB Level 6–7+)
Mentions a scene Describes a key moment Quotes or paraphrases purposefully and
vaguely accurately explains effect
IEB does NOT require long quotations.
One or two short, integrated quotes per paragraph is ideal.
Example of effective integrated quoting technique:
He "resolves to..." rather than He says "resolves to..."
Keep quotes natural in the sentence, not pasted in.
Tone and Style
- Write in formal academic tone.
- Do not use:
o Contractions (don’t, can’t)
o Slang or conversational phrasing
o Emotional or personal phrases like “I feel…”
- Use literary terms naturally:
Characterisation: How a writer creates and develops a character through their actions, dialogue,
thoughts, appearance, and how others respond to them.
- Identify the key instruction: argue, discuss, evaluate, to what extent, justify.
- Identify the two opposing ideas or tensions in the topic.
o There is almost always a shift or contrast to address.
- Decide YOUR stance early.
Your stance must be nuanced (not just “yes” or “no”).
IEB loves a balanced argument, e.g.:
"Partially true, but ultimately…"
Plan a Clear Argument Path
Think of your essay as:
Claim → Evidence → Explanation
- Your introduction should state your position clearly.
- Each paragraph should:
o Make one clear point
o Support it with specific moments from the text
o Explain how that supports the essay’s argument
- Do not recount plot.
The markers know the story. Your job is to interpret, not narrate.
The 3-Level Evidence Rule
Your reference to the text must show depth:
Weak Better Excellent (IEB Level 6–7+)
Mentions a scene Describes a key moment Quotes or paraphrases purposefully and
vaguely accurately explains effect
IEB does NOT require long quotations.
One or two short, integrated quotes per paragraph is ideal.
Example of effective integrated quoting technique:
He "resolves to..." rather than He says "resolves to..."
Keep quotes natural in the sentence, not pasted in.
Tone and Style
- Write in formal academic tone.
- Do not use:
o Contractions (don’t, can’t)
o Slang or conversational phrasing
o Emotional or personal phrases like “I feel…”
- Use literary terms naturally:
Characterisation: How a writer creates and develops a character through their actions, dialogue,
thoughts, appearance, and how others respond to them.
