Unpicking the Detail

In Section A of the exam you will be expected to respond to a question in a very familiar style.  We have taught all of you, over the years, to use the PEE(E) paragraph structure: Point, Evidence, Explain and Extend.  As your teachers have told you the extension portion of this paragraph style is extremely useful to signpost to the examiner that you are going deeper, by either examining structure, meaning or attitudes.  For instance in your extension you might unpick why Golding uses the word ‘fair’ to describe Ralph:

For example: “When Ralph is introduced Golding uses the word ‘fair’ to present his hair colour, of course, but not only does he create the image of a somewhat Aryan and perfect child in appearance, by using the word ‘fair’ he could actually be portraying Ralph as someone who is able to make reasonable judgements, who has a good moral and ethical understanding and who, by nature, looks for and provides equality and justice.”

This is ‘unpicking’, where you make a meal out of something that seems small, but actually has a wider relevance to the novel.  Also, if you look up the word ‘Aryan’, you’ll find that you could expand this extension teaser.  Be mindful that the word ‘Aryan’ is not supplied by the author, but this is a post-war text so the term is extremely relevant.

In the comments box below show your ability to unpick language used in a section chosen by you.