HOW TO: ANSWER THE TEMPEST SECTION A
Section 1: Two part Shakespeare question:
● Part a) is a close analysis of an extract. The focus should be on Shakespeare’s use of
language and its dramatic effects: 75% analysis, 25% good argument
● Part b) is an essay question on their studied Shakespeare play, focusing on different
interpretations: 50% interpretations, 50% argument
Students should remember that quotations and effects have to be explained and analysed.
In the Shakespeare part a) extract question. Show understanding of the dramatic effects of the
language. This could include reference to:
● Dramatic structure; tragedy/comedy/tragicomedy
● Dramatic irony
● Staging/stage directions/setting
● Critical concepts and terminology - colonialism, patriarchy
● Blank verse or prose (spoken normally) or couplets (successive rhyming lines -
memorable)
● Soliloquy (speaking thoughts aloud)
● Audience response 75% close analysis
OPENING EXAMPLE
This extract, taken from Act[...]1 Scene[...] of ‘The Tempest’, takes place directly after/ before
[contextualise the extract]
In Shakespeare part b), show an exploration of alternative readings. This could include:
● Critics
● Critical perspectives (feminist, post colonial etc)
● Different stage and film versions (e.g. Globe 2013)
50% critics + over time
Section 1: Two part Shakespeare question:
● Part a) is a close analysis of an extract. The focus should be on Shakespeare’s use of
language and its dramatic effects: 75% analysis, 25% good argument
● Part b) is an essay question on their studied Shakespeare play, focusing on different
interpretations: 50% interpretations, 50% argument
Students should remember that quotations and effects have to be explained and analysed.
In the Shakespeare part a) extract question. Show understanding of the dramatic effects of the
language. This could include reference to:
● Dramatic structure; tragedy/comedy/tragicomedy
● Dramatic irony
● Staging/stage directions/setting
● Critical concepts and terminology - colonialism, patriarchy
● Blank verse or prose (spoken normally) or couplets (successive rhyming lines -
memorable)
● Soliloquy (speaking thoughts aloud)
● Audience response 75% close analysis
OPENING EXAMPLE
This extract, taken from Act[...]1 Scene[...] of ‘The Tempest’, takes place directly after/ before
[contextualise the extract]
In Shakespeare part b), show an exploration of alternative readings. This could include:
● Critics
● Critical perspectives (feminist, post colonial etc)
● Different stage and film versions (e.g. Globe 2013)
50% critics + over time
