Shakespeare Essay Writing Strategies

The video provides a comprehensive guide to achieving a grade 9 in an OCR essay on Macbeth. It begins with an introduction to the video’s purpose, followed by a detailed analysis of the mark scheme for top band level six. The video then explores an OCR exam style question on Lady Macbeth, providing a sample response and analysis. It concludes with tips for exam success, emphasizing the importance of understanding the text, using precise language, and integrating context.

What is the main purpose of the video tutorial?

• To analyze different plays by Shakespeare.

• To discuss the life of Shakespeare.

• To help students achieve a high grade in an OCR essay.

• To provide a summary of Macbeth.

What is the focus of the mark scheme discussed in the video?

• The historical context of Macbeth.

• The top band level six criteria.

• The biography of Shakespeare.

• The plot summary of Macbeth.

What does a sustained critical style involve?

• Analyzing and unpicking the question.

• Simply narrating the play.

• Using informal language.

• Ignoring the question context.

Why is precise language important in the analysis?

• To confuse the examiner.

• To ensure clarity and accuracy.

• To make the essay longer.

• To avoid using quotations.

How should context be integrated into the analysis?

• As an afterthought.

• By oversimplifying.

• By ignoring it completely.

• Fully integrated within arguments.

What is the suggested approach to the exam-style question?

• Ignore the extract.

• Narrate the entire play.

• Focus only on the extract.

• Balance between extract and play as a whole.

What is a key feature of the sample response?

• It lacks quotations.

• It ignores the question.

• It provides a detailed analysis.

• It is very brief.

What is one of the concluding tips for the exam?

• Use long quotations.

• Focus on the question throughout.

• Avoid using subject terminology.

• Ignore the context.