Key Vocabulary (Leaving Cert English): Revision Notes

Key Vocabulary

Key Vocabulary	Sample Questions	What to Focus On
Theme	"What is the main theme of the poem?"	Identify the central idea or message conveyed by the poem.
Tone	"Discuss the tone of the poem."	Describe the poet's attitude or feelings towards the subject and how it changes.
Imagery	"How does the poet use imagery?"	Focus on the visual descriptions and sensory details that create mental images.
Mood	"What mood is created in the poem?"	Determine the overall feeling or atmosphere evoked in the reader.

| Structure | "Analyse the structure of the poem." | Consider how the poem is organised, including stanza breaks, line length, and overall form. | | Rhyme Scheme | "What effect does the rhyme scheme have?" | Evaluate how the pattern of rhymes contributes to the poem's rhythm and meaning. | | Rhythm | "Discuss the rhythm of the poem." | Look at the pacing and flow of the poem, noting any variations and their impact. | | Symbolism | "Identify and explain the use of symbolism." | Find symbols and explain what they represent and how they enhance the poem's meaning. |

| Persona | "Who is the speaker in the poem?" | Determine whether the speaker is the poet or a distinct character and how this affects the poem's perspective. | | Caesura | "What is the effect of caesura in the poem?" | Analyse how pauses within lines influence the poem's rhythm and emphasis. | | Diction | "Comment on the poet's diction." | Focus on word choice and how it shapes the poem's tone and meaning. | | Perspective | "From whose perspective is the poem written?" | Identify the viewpoint (first-person, second-person, or third-person) and consider its impact on the poem's message. |