how to succeed in lit 2009

[pip]

hey!!
i am studying lit in 2009 and feeling slightly apprehensive! I would like to start doing some practice writing but we have hardly started our first text.. any advice on ways i could be actively working towards success in lit at this stage? Also i would really appreciate any practice essays you guys have written, so i can get a feel for what lit is asking from me!!
we are studying:
Washington Square, This Boys Life, Water (film), Honour, Stasiland
thanks so much

[lishan515]

Hi Pip
At this early stage it is probably best just to read your text (a few times) and start to think about the broad ideas. If you have been given some reading (critical material) and you feel comfortable with your text then begin to read that.
It probably is best not to immediately start writing essays - instead write for say 20 mins about an aspect of the text - such as an idea, a reoccurring image, the language 
Anyway good luck with Lit - it is hard work (yes - contrary to popular misconception) but if you like reading then you will really like Lit