How do I approach an unseen poem?

Start with looking at the form of the poem: things like the number of stanzas, how many lines they are composed of, and how they are arranged, as well as the overall length. Do not just state the arrangement, explain why they are like this and what effect it gives to the reader.

Next, move on to look at the content of the piece. If you find this hard, a good place to start is poetic techniques - like onomatopoeia, assonance, similes, or metaphors. Again, remember to explain what effect the various techniques have - don't just state what they are: this isn't helpful and won't get you any marks.

Depending on the marking criteria for your exam board, you may get just a few marks appointed to any context that you mention. Put this where you feel that it's right, perhaps at the start your essay.

Always remember to have a conclusion, even if it's only short. Sum up everything you have said, in a more concise way.

Remeber that the examiners are not expecting the same level of detail that is required for a studied text.