Mark Scheme (Edexcel GCSE English Literature): Model Answers

Level 1 (1–4 Marks)

• Comparison: There is little or no comparison of the two poems. • Language, Form, and Structure (AO2): Identification of form and structure is minimal, and there is little awareness of the language used by the poets. • Context (AO3): Little awareness of context and little comment on the relationship between poems and context. • Subject Terminology: Little or no use of relevant subject terminology.

Level 2 (5–8 Marks)

• Comparison: Some underdeveloped comparisons and contrasts are presented, with obvious similarities and/or differences, but these are not fully explored. Some ideas are drawn from the poems. • Language, Form, and Structure (AO2): Some comment on the form and structure of the poems, though not fully explained. There is some awareness of the poets' use of language, but ideas are not fully developed. • Context (AO3): Some awareness of relevant context, with limited comment on how the context impacts the meaning or ideas in the poems. • Subject Terminology: Limited use of relevant subject terminology, which may not always be accurate or explained.

Level 3 (9–12 Marks)

• Comparison: The response compares and contrasts a range of points, considering similarities and/or differences between the poems. • Language, Form, and Structure (AO2): Shows sound understanding of form and structure, linking these features to their effect on the reader. There is clear awareness of the poets' use of language, with sound examples of its effect. • Context (AO3): Sound comment on relevant context, with some consideration of how context influences the poems and the relationship between the poems and their context. • Subject Terminology: Relevant subject terminology is used to support examples, though it may not always be fully integrated.

Level 4 (13–16 Marks)

• Comparison: The response effectively compares and contrasts the poems, considering a wide range of similarities and/or differences. Ideas are well-supported with relevant examples from both poems. • Language, Form, and Structure (AO2): The analysis of form and structure is sustained, clearly linking their effects to the reader's understanding. The response comments effectively on the poets' use of language and its impact. • Context (AO3): There is sustained comment on relevant context, demonstrating detailed awareness of how the context shapes the meaning of the poems. • Subject Terminology: Relevant subject terminology is used accurately and appropriately to develop ideas.

Level 5 (17–20 Marks)

• Comparison: The response shows perceptive comparisons and contrasts, considering a varied and comprehensive range of similarities and/or differences between the poems. • Language, Form, and Structure (AO2): There is a perceptive grasp of the form and structure of both poems, with a cohesive evaluation of their effect on the reader. The analysis of language is insightful, and its impact on the reader is fully explored. • Context (AO3): Excellent understanding of context, with a convincing integration of the relationship between the poems and their context. The context is woven seamlessly into the analysis of the poems. • Subject Terminology: Subject terminology is integrated seamlessly and used precisely throughout the response, supporting a well-developed argument.

Overall Guidance for Writing a Strong Response

• Comparison: Ensure that throughout your response, you consistently compare the two poems, linking ideas and considering both their similarities and differences. Don't just describe each poem separately—highlight connections between them. • Language, Form, and Structure (AO2): Pay close attention to how the poets use language (e.g., metaphors, imagery, tone) and how form and structure (e.g., rhyme scheme, stanza length, enjambment) contribute to the meaning of the poem. Discuss the effect these features have on the reader. • Context (AO3): Consider how the historical, social, or cultural context of the poems influences their meaning. Look at how the poets may be reflecting or responding to events or societal issues in their works. • Subject Terminology: Use relevant subject-specific terminology (e.g., metaphor, enjambment, alliteration, free verse) throughout your response. Be sure to explain how these techniques support your analysis.

By focusing on these key areas and making connections between the two poems, you can produce a detailed and insightful response that demonstrates your understanding of both the text and its context.