How do I approach an unseen poem?

First of all you will need to read through the poem to try and understand its literal meaning, take your time and read through again if needed. You will be marked on form, structure and language so now it is a good idea to go through the poem and look for any poetic devices such as similes, sibilance and metaphors (and what effect does this create). Analyse the structure; what is the rhyme scheme? How many stanzas are there? Are all the stanzas the same length? - and what meaning does this create Does the poem have a particular form such as a dramatic monologue or a sonnet? Now you have begun to analyse the poem, you should think about building up an argument for the plan of your answer as this is what will receive top band marks.

MJ
Answered by Marina J. English Literature tutor

3368 Views

See similar English Literature GCSE tutors

Related English Literature GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How do I plan an essay under such strong time constraints?


On the significance of the imagery of “words” to the play Othello


Explore the ways in which pride is used as a theme in Antigone. Consider the dramatic techniques used by Sophocles and show how his choices of language, structure and style shape the meaning.


How is religion presented throughout Shakespeare's King Lear?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning