Section B · 40 marks
Unseen Poetry
The T.A.I.L.S. approach to analysing unseen poetry: Theme, Atmosphere, Imagery, Language, Structure.
~60 minutes
Choose 1 of 2 poems
AO1 + AO2 + AO5
No context required
Section B: Unseen Poetry
Written exam2 hours total (Component 3)
Section B allocation~60 minutes
Marks40 marks
Choice1 question from a choice of 2
Assessment Objectives
| AO | Marks | % | What It Tests |
|---|---|---|---|
| AO1 | 15 | 37.5% | Literary terminology, coherent expression, personal response |
| AO2 | 15 | 37.5% | Analyse how meanings are shaped (language, form, structure) |
| AO5 | 10 | 25% | Different interpretations (autonomous, independent reader) |
Key Points
NO AO3 (context) — you’re not expected to know historical background
NO AO4 (comparison) — only one poem to analyse
AO2 is joint-highest — focus on HOW meanings are created through poetic techniques
“Unseen” = you’ve never encountered this poem before; test your close reading skills
What the Question Asks
“Analyse the ways in which meanings are shaped in this poem.”
“Explore the ways the poet presents [theme/subject] in this poem.”
What examiners want:
- Close, detailed analysis of HOW the poet creates effects
- Focus on language, form, structure, imagery, sound
- Personal, engaged response (not pre-learned interpretation)
- Exploration of implicit meanings (what’s suggested, not just stated)
- Consideration of different possible readings