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VCE LITERATURE Q&A THREAD
What is this thread for?
If you have general questions about the VCE Literature course or how to improve in certain areas, this is the place to ask!
If you're looking for essay marking and feedback, go to the English Work Submission and Marking board.
Who can/will answer questions?
Everyone is welcome to contribute; even if you're unsure of yourself, providing different perspectives is incredibly valuable.
Please don't be dissuaded by the fact that you haven't finished Year 12, or didn't score as highly as others, or your advice contradicts something else you've seen on this thread, or whatever; none of this disqualifies you from helping others. And if you're worried you do have some sort of misconception, put it out there and someone else can clarify and modify your understanding!
There'll be a whole bunch of other high-scoring students with their own wealths of wisdom to share with you, including TuteSmart tutors! So you may even get multiple answers from different people offering their insights - very cool.
To ask a question or make a post, you will first need an ATAR Notes account. You probably already have one, but if you don't, it takes about four seconds to sign up - and completely free!
OTHER LITERATURE RESOURCES
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Great thread idea! This will be super helpful for current/future Lit students!
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Hi hi! Not sure if I'm posting in the right place, but with the literature exam coming up I'm wondering what's the recommended length of each essay? My teacher said 1000 words each, also checked the examiners reports and they are all just under 1000, however I'm struggling to write more than 600 words give or take in the time limit. I just want to know if we have explored the ideas and provided justifications, would the short length be a detriment or would it not matter?
Also, are oxford commas allowed? My teacher crossed out all of my oxford commas on essays even though I'm sure they're both accepted.
Thank you! :D
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Hi hi! Not sure if I'm posting in the right place, but with the literature exam coming up I'm wondering what's the recommended length of each essay? My teacher said 1000 words each, also checked the examiners reports and they are all just under 1000, however I'm struggling to write more than 600 words give or take in the time limit. I just want to know if we have explored the ideas and provided justifications, would the short length be a detriment or would it not matter?
Also, are oxford commas allowed? My teacher crossed out all of my oxford commas on essays even though I'm sure they're both accepted.
I'm not too sure with the word length, but I'm pretty sure 1000 words is just a guideline. I don't think you'll necessarily be marked down for having less, but maybe not too less.
My lit teacher said generally students should generally aim for 700+ words.
Oxford commas are definitely allowed.
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I'm not too sure with the word length, but I'm pretty sure 1000 words is just a guideline. I don't think you'll necessarily be marked down for having less, but maybe not too less.
My lit teacher said generally students should generally aim for 700+ words.
Oxford commas are definitely allowed.
Cool! Thank you so much :)
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Hi everyone! I’m not sure how to express my question clearly but I’d really appreciate it if someone could please help out! :-\
I’ve been averaging around 60 percent in my SACs this year and am worried at this point about year 12 lit. I feel like its just me struggling with this problem but I find it difficult to understand what the examiners are expecting us to address in the tasks (mainly close analysis). because of this, my essays are lacking direction and I sense that I’m not addressing what the examiners want to see
So I guess my question is: what do the examiners want to see on the paper? My teachers keep telling me that the essays have to be centred around how the author uses language features to creates meaning. This makes sense except for the fact that I am able to analyse the effect of using specific language features but I struggle in finding a contention that keeps the essay together. For example, in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, I find that some language features are used to explore repressed sexuality and materialism and greed. I usually go in depth into these ideas in separate paragraphs but I struggle with the introduction and conclusion due to my lack of clear, strong contention. The intro and conclusion is usually where I lose much of my marks from.
Any contribution from someone who is able to help or struggling with the same sort of thing would be very much appreciated!
Sorry about the super long post! :P
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I'm not too sure with the word length, but I'm pretty sure 1000 words is just a guideline. I don't think you'll necessarily be marked down for having less, but maybe not too less.
My lit teacher said generally students should generally aim for 700+ words.
Oxford commas are definitely allowed.
If the quality is good, some examiners won't even mind if you don't finish your essay. Still, you should be practising to try and achieve 1000 words in an hour, (700+ at least), otherwise you won't have enough well-developed ideas.
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Hi everyone! I’m not sure how to express my question clearly but I’d really appreciate it if someone could please help out! :-\
I’ve been averaging around 60 percent in my SACs this year and am worried at this point about year 12 lit. I feel like its just me struggling with this problem but I find it difficult to understand what the examiners are expecting us to address in the tasks (mainly close analysis). because of this, my essays are lacking direction and I sense that I’m not addressing what the examiners want to see
So I guess my question is: what do the examiners want to see on the paper? My teachers keep telling me that the essays have to be centred around how the author uses language features to creates meaning. This makes sense except for the fact that I am able to analyse the effect of using specific language features but I struggle in finding a contention that keeps the essay together. For example, in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, I find that some language features are used to explore repressed sexuality and materialism and greed. I usually go in depth into these ideas in separate paragraphs but I struggle with the introduction and conclusion due to my lack of clear, strong contention. The intro and conclusion is usually where I lose much of my marks from.
Any contribution from someone who is able to help or struggling with the same sort of thing would be very much appreciated!
Sorry about the super long post! :P
Can completely relate! In close analysis, a single contention is not necessary. However, the importance is on flow and linking of your excellent ideas. Reading/writing a good close analysis essay should build up as it develops, like an unravelling spiral or the momentum of the waves. You should feel emotionally and intellectually engaged as you build up to a climactic point when you successfully link the strands of your essay together.
The best way I found to keep essay direction was to plan thoroughly. When writing practise essays I would sometimes even give myself a day or two to plan and generate ideas which I could form paragraphs from, and then the rest of the week to write. In the exam, you will only have 5 minutes at most to plan (inculding reading time), but by then you should be really clear with the ideas of the text, and ideally you should have written enough essays by then to make this possible. With regards to analysis and direction, always analyse with a purpose. The analysis should support an interpretation. You don't have to enter the analysis with a fixed idea, but as you develop your analysis an interpretation should form. The interpretation should be further supported by your other ideas. They mutually support each other.
In short:
1.Plan beforehand
2.Develop an interpretation that is supported by your ideas
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Hi everyone!
I am a bit worried for Literature next year as my school isn't studying any texts from the Novels section on the VCAA Text List.
We are studying: Ariel (poetry), A Room of One's Own (other literature), Twelfth Night (play), Othello (play) and Foreign Soil (short stories).
Should I address this issue to my teacher or wait until school commences?
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Hi everyone!
I am a bit worried for Literature next year as my school isn't studying any texts from the Novels section on the VCAA Text List.
We are studying: Ariel (poetry), A Room of One's Own (other literature), Twelfth Night (play), Othello (play) and Foreign Soil (short stories).
Should I address this issue to my teacher or wait until school commences?
This is a concern that your school isn't doing any novels for 3/4 Lit. I would try to contact your teacher ASAP, but please don't panic! You can always start the novel later in Unit 4 (most people start Heart of Darkness in term 3/4).
See VCAA Text List, 2019 (quote in italics):
Teachers must consider the text list in conjunction with the relevant text selection information published on page 15 of the VCE Literature Study Design 2017–2020 for Units 3 and 4.
The selection must include:
• one novel
• one collection of poetry
• one play
• two further texts selected from novels, plays, collections of poetry, collections of short stories, other literature or films.
At least one of the texts selected must be Australian.
Another thing you will need to take note of is that you cannot write on both plays (Twelfth Night and Othello) in the exam. You need to write on two different 'text types' (so play and poetry, or short story and poetry, etc.)
What text will you do for critical perspectives (Section A)? I did Twelfth Night for Section B Close Analysis and it was perfectly suited to the task, but I think Othello would do similarly well. I absolutely loved Twelfth Night! The language is amazing, and so many interesting philosophical/societal issues raised in a seemingly comedic fashion., ranging from gender, social class, time, the metaphysical, fantasy, reality, illusion, and even performance itself! Also some amazing one-liners (If music be the food of love (starting a fantastical play with the hypothetical if), Taste your legs (hedonistic decomposition of meaning through the corpulent metaphor), etc.)
Please let me know if you have any questions! All the best, Lit was my favourite subject, so hope you enjoy the year!
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Hi, I was wondering what is the best way to colour code your highlighting in your texts? Like do you do it by theme? Characterisation?
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Hi, I was wondering what is the best way to colour code your highlighting in your texts? Like do you do it by theme? Characterisation?
Depends on what your aim is. Generally 'theme' is better.
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Hi,
I just have a quick question regarding taking literature 3/4 in year 11. So I am currently doing lit 3/4 in year 11 and was wondering if I still have to take an english subject for year 12 or am I free to not take one since I have already finished an english subject.
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Hi,
I just have a quick question regarding taking literature 3/4 in year 11. So I am currently doing lit 3/4 in year 11 and was wondering if I still have to take an english subject for year 12 or am I free to not take one since I have already finished an english subject.
Hello! :)
You don’t necessarily have to take another English subject for year 12 - according to VCAA you need three English units to be eligible for an ATAR, two which has to be 3/4. Therefore if you complete an additional English unit this year as a year 11, you don’t have to do English again in year 12.
HOWEVER, if you did literature 3/4 as your ONLY English subject, then you have to complete another 3/4 English subject once you are in year 12 or you won’t be able to receive an ATAR!
For example, I did literature 3/4 last year as a year 11, in addition to unit 2 of English in the second semester. This year I’m doing no English subjects. :)
I hope that clears up any confusions you may have!
Colline x
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Hello! :)
You don’t necessarily have to take another English subject for year 12 - according to VCAA you need three English units to be eligible for an ATAR, two which has to be 3/4. Therefore if you complete an additional English unit this year as a year 11, you don’t have to do English again in year 12.
HOWEVER, if you did literature 3/4 as your ONLY English subject, then you have to complete another 3/4 English subject once you are in year 12 or you won’t be able to receive an ATAR!
For example, I did literature 3/4 last year as a year 11, in addition to unit 2 of English in the second semester. This year I’m doing no English subjects. :)
I hope that clears up any confusions you may have!
Colline x
Hey thanks for answering, so if literature is the only english I do in year 11 does that mean I have to do english 3/4 in year 12 or can I just complete 1 unit of english and not have it as a subject on my final atar.
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Hey thanks for answering, so if literature is the only english I do in year 11 does that mean I have to do english 3/4 in year 12 or can I just complete 1 unit of english and not have it as a subject on my final atar.
If you ONLY do literature 3/4, without an addition english unit in year 11, then yes you will have to do english 3/4 in year 12.
I'm not sure if you will be allowed to complete only one unit of english in year 12 (but check with your school! Mine doesn't) - however you CAN do english 3/4 as a 7th subject in yr12 if you want! That way it wouldn't contribute towards your ATAR, but the thing is you can't really DECIDED what your final study score is going to be, if that makes sense!
f you want to do only literature 3/4, without an additional english subject in year 12, I suggest that next semester, do unit 2 english instead of one of your current 1/2s. Depending on the subject, you'll most likely still be allowed to continue that 1/2 into 3/4 level next year, without having to do english!
I'm not sure if I'm 100% clear in explaining it haha, PM me if it's still confusing! I was in the same boat as you last year :)
Colline <3
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If you ONLY do literature 3/4, without an addition english unit in year 11, then yes you will have to do english 3/4 in year 12.
I'm not sure if you will be allowed to complete only one unit of english in year 12 (but check with your school! Mine doesn't) - however you CAN do english 3/4 as a 7th subject in yr12 if you want! That way it wouldn't contribute towards your ATAR, but the thing is you can't really DECIDED what your final study score is going to be, if that makes sense!
f you want to do only literature 3/4, without an additional english subject in year 12, I suggest that next semester, do unit 2 english instead of one of your current 1/2s. Depending on the subject, you'll most likely still be allowed to continue that 1/2 into 3/4 level next year, without having to do english!
I'm not sure if I'm 100% clear in explaining it haha, PM me if it's still confusing! I was in the same boat as you last year :)
Colline <3
Ahhh that makes alot of sense cheers man <3
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hey ya'll not in VCE lit but figured you guys could help.
this is my practice essay, pls be as brutal as you need
The death of the maids was not the fault of Odysseus and Telemachus but rather, Greek Society
The Penelopiad written by author Margaret Atwood is a story about the death of twelve innocent maid servants. Margaret Atwood’s goal in this novel is to properly explore the reason why they were killed and who is to blame. Odysseus and Telemachus, two powerful greek men who are the ones to take the lives of these innocent girls are not only to blame but the disgusting abuse of Male Privilege, the Gods and Penelope’s desire for a voice.
The social hierarchy of Greece in this time allows men to have the privilege of weapons and words. Men are perceived in this novel as tainted and evil and so they should be as all they do is use their privileges as a way of selfish gain and for the gift of power and are yet still “never punished.” Having power in this era is the same as money and authority. Men are the prison guards and women are the prisoners. “it was not fair.” After learning that women have practically given up and “could not refuse,” as every man’s gain was at the expense of a woman, it is appalling to know there was a society as corrupt as this one. An example of men committing to selfish and vial acts at the expense of a woman is when the Odysseus leaves for Troy and the Suitors take it upon themselves to rip away any ounce of authority from under Penelope’s feet and drown her in the override of devilish masculinity. “They were like vultures when they spot a dead cow…every vulture from miles around is tearing up the carcass.” This quote refers too Penelope being left in Ithaca alone without Odysseus because the life of a woman is following the shadow of a man. The Suitors take this opportunity to force Penelope into marrying one of them, not for the want of Penelope but for the desire of the money and power given to them if marriage was to occur. This alone, shows how women are seen as nothing else but powerless property to be traded. They also helped themselves to the maids and the kingdoms food, “they probably thought nothing of it.” Men are evil and will snatch anything they can for a speck of power, hence why the maids were brutally murdered. It was at their expense that Odysseus and Telemachus could take a stand to remind the women that they have the power and are capable of many things, so they have to abide by them.
The Gods should certainly be blamed for the death of the maids as from a young age, men are bought up and encouraged to destroy and conquer the enemy. Although this refers to war, men are still fixated on using brutality and deceitful acts as a way to gain power. Everything people did in these days was for the Gods “because the gods were just.” But even the gods aren’t as innocent as they seem as even “they were always raping someone.” Men are taught by the Gods that violence equals justice, this is another factor to the murder of the maids. “it was demeaning.” While Odysseus was away he pretended to expect the women to be disloyal and took it upon himself to justify his authority by murdering the maids simply because its what the Gods want, but even though the gods seem wise and powerful they are described as “nasty” and “childish.” This is unfair to the extent that it is one of the worst acts to be committed, murder for no reason but your own gain. Twelve innocent fragile lives for one selfish leader. Why? Because the suffering of women is celebrated by men. In greek myths and stories, men are always the heroes, the warriors but no one ever focuses on how women were the price. It proves the fact how Greek religion is corrupt. Greek Gods are celebrated for their achievements in violence and brutality, whilst Goddesses are more celebrated for their spirituality and purity. The gods encourage other men to attempt and commit such celebrated crimes for the prize of power. Women are basically “doomed by the gods to a life that is a living death.” To draw on the fact more, men are the dirty, corrupt warriors who win pure women as a prize for their achievements.
Of course, it could just be of human nature and Penelope’s “determined nature” and unwinding desire for a life like a mans that is to blame for the death of the maids, Penelope even admits that her fathers “desire to protect himself” was “understandable.” Does that mean if Penelope was handed the same privilege as men they would do the same? Atwood even asks herself “what was Penelope really up to?” Is it just fate or misfortune that had lead them to be on the receiving end of this absurd brutality? Human’s are known to be selfish to protect themselves from harm, even Penelope chose those specific twelve maids to help her in acts destined to be punished for. It was doubtful knowledge to know that a murder was just waiting to happen, Penelope knew the consequences of risking her maids like this. She even took it upon her selfish mind to force the maids to pretend to be in love with the Suitors, which lead to the rape of the maids. Early on in the book she is described as “a stick used to beat other women with”, and this is exactly what she is doing for her own selfish gain when it comes to her faithful and innocent maids. It’s not only Male Privilege to blame, but also Penelope. It just shows how if the roles were reversed women such as Penelope would not hesitate to do just the same.
To conclude, whilst Odysseus and Telemachus are victims of the prejudice society they inhabit, it is down to Male Privilege, The Gods and Penelope to blame for the cold-blooded murder of the poor innocent maids, simply because of the yearning for power and money, and the monumental influence by the Gods on how money and power is the key to a successful life. The maids were killed with no reason and never got the justice they deserve.
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Hey Lex! There's actually a specific thread for essay marking in the VCE Literature board that you can post in next time if you have anything that needs marking. :) Anyway, I thought I'd have a go at marking your essay. I'm not too familiar with the text though, but here are just some changes I would make:
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The Penelopiad written by author Margaret Atwood is a story about the death of twelve innocent maid servants. It’s not necessary to explain the plot. Margaret Atwood’s goal in this novel Remember to use the correct terminology. The Penelopiad is a novella is to properly explore the reason why they were killed and who is to blame. Odysseus and Telemachus, two powerful greek Greek men who are the ones to take the lives of these innocent girls are not only to blame but the disgusting abuse of Male Privilege not 100% sure, but I don’t think male privilege needs to be capitalised, the Gods and Penelope’s desire for a voice.
The social hierarchy of Greece in this time What time? Be specific. For example, the social hierarchy of Ancient Greece at the time of the Trojan War allows men to have the privilege of weapons and words. Men are perceived in this novel as tainted and evil and so they should be as all they do is use their privileges as a way of selfish gain and for the gift of power and are yet still “never punished.”Try not to phrase it like that. Maybe leave out the ‘and so they should be’ and go straight to WHY men are perceived as such Having power in this era is the same as having money and authority. Men are the prison guards and women are the prisoners. “it was not fair.” Pay attention to punctuation here. Also, try to insert some context and analysis for this quote – never have quotes by themselves. After learning that women have practically given up and “could not refuse,” as every man’s gain was at the expense of a woman, it is appalling to know there was a society as corrupt as this one Instead of phrasing it like this, try to show Atwood’s authorial intent here – for example, Atwood successfully causes the reader to be appalled at the utter misogyny and corruption of Ancient Greek society. An example of men committing to selfish and vial acts at the expense of a woman is when the Odysseus leaves for Troy and the Suitors take it upon themselves to rip away any ounce of authority from under Penelope’s feet and drown her in the override of devilish masculinity. “They were like vultures when they spot a dead cow…every vulture from miles around is tearing up the carcass.” This quote refers too Penelope being left in Ithaca alone without Odysseus because the life of a woman is following the shadow of a man. The Suitors take this opportunity to force Penelope into marrying one of them, not for the want of Penelope but for the desire of the money and power given to them if marriage was to occur through marriage (try to be efficient with your language whenever you can). This alone, shows how women are seen as nothing else but powerless property to be traded. They also helped themselves to the maids and the kingdoms food, “they probably thought nothing of it.” Again, try to show the context of this quote – who said it? What was the quote trying to achieve? Follow up with some analysis to show your knowledge of the text. Men are evil and will snatch anything they can for a speck of power, hence why the maids were brutally murdered. It was at their expense that Odysseus and Telemachus could take a stand to remind the women that they have the power and are capable of many things, so they have to abide by them.
The Gods should certainly be blamed for the death of the maids as from a young age, men are bought up and encouraged to destroy and conquer the enemy. Although this refers to war, men are still fixated on using brutality and deceitful acts as a way to gain of gaining power. Everything people did in these days be specific. People – what people? Not everyone in Ancient Greece abided by their superstitions. These days – again, more context is needed. Mentioning the time period the text was set in would be sufficient. was for the Gods “because the gods were just.” But even the gods aren’t as innocent as they seem as even “they were always raping someone.” Men are taught by the Gods that violence equals justice, this which is another factor to the murder of the maids. “it was demeaning.” While Odysseus was away he pretended to expect the women to be disloyal and took it upon himself to justify his authority by murdering the maids simply because it’s what the Gods want, but even though the gods seem wise and powerful they are described as “nasty” and “childish.” This is an extremely good point, so don’t move on so quickly! Explore the irony and juxtaposition here. Point out this literary device that Atwood used and the EFFECT that it has on the reader. This is unfair to the extent that it is one of the worst acts to be committed, murder for no reason but your own personal gain. Twelve innocent fragile lives for one selfish leader. Why? Because the suffering of women is celebrated by men. In greek Greek myths and stories, men are always the heroes, the warriors but no one ever focuses on how women were the price there are many exceptions to this so try not to be too definite – instead, try saying that the men of Ancient Greek society were TRADITIONALLY portrayed as the heroes. It proves the fact how Greek religion is corrupt. Greek Gods are celebrated for their achievements in violence and brutality, whilst Goddesses are more celebrated for their spirituality and purity. The gods encourage other men to attempt and commit such celebrated crimes for the prize of power. Women are basically essentially would be a better word “doomed by the gods to a life that is a living death.” To draw on the fact more don’t use this in your concluding statement, men are the dirty, corrupt warriors who win pure women as a prize for their achievements.
Of course, it could just be of human nature and Penelope’s “determined nature” and unwinding desire for a life like a mans that is to blame for the death of the maids, Penelope even admits that her fathers pay attention to the usage of apostrophes “desire to protect himself” was “understandable.” Does that mean if Penelope was handed the same privilege as men they would do the same? Atwood even asks herself “what was Penelope really up to?” Is it just fate or misfortune that had lead them to be on the receiving end of this absurd brutality? Human’s are known to be selfish to protect themselves from harm, even Penelope chose those specific twelve maids to help her in acts destined to be punished for. It was doubtful knowledge to know that a murder was just waiting to happen, Penelope knew the consequences of risking her maids like this. She even took it upon her selfish mind to force the maids to pretend to be in love with the Suitors, which lead to the rape of the maids. Early on in the book never use ‘book’ – try ‘text’ or ‘narrative’ or ‘novella’ she is described as “a stick used to beat other women with”, and this is exactly what she is doing for her own selfish gain when it comes to her faithful and innocent maids. It’s not only Male Privilege to blame, but also Penelope. It just shows how if the roles were reversed women such as Penelope would not hesitate to do just the same. You’ve raised an excellent point here but you have to come back to your contention in your concluding statement – in the context of this text, it could be argued that Penelope is also to blame – but come back to your point on human nature, as that would be your overarching idea for this paragraph.
To conclude, whilst Odysseus and Telemachus are victims of the prejudice society they inhabit, it is down to Male Privilege, The Gods and Penelope human nature to blame for the cold-blooded murder of the poor innocent maids, simply because of the yearning for power and money, and the monumental influence by the Gods on how money and power is the key to a successful life. The maids were killed with no reason and never got never use the word ‘got’ – there are always better alternatives. Try ‘received’ the justice they deserve.
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Overall, a very solid essay! Just pay attention to your usage of terminology and punctuation (especially apostrophes) and also remember to always provide CONTEXT and ANALYSIS for every quote you use - otherwise the quote doesn't mean anything. Also, try to look at literary devices and techniques and the effect they have on the reader. Essentially, discuss more on historical context and authorial intent.
Good luck!! Let me know if you have any questions :)
Colline xx
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Thanks colline! sorry it took me so long to respond. Thankyou for your help! I am most certainly gonna use this!! xx
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Hi,
For my practise exam for section A my feedback revolved around doing more with the lit perspective (psycho-analytical theory) and weave it throughout my essay. I'm really confused on how to do this. Does anyone have any suggestions?
Thanks in advance!
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Hi everyone! :)
I just transferred from mainstream English to Literature 3/4 but I doubt my current essay skills will be adequate - I really want to improve though! As part of my holiday work, where can I find general or text specific prompts so I can start practising? Also, is an introduction really not necessary in Lit?
Thank you~
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Hi everyone! :)
I just transferred from mainstream English to Literature 3/4 but I doubt my current essay skills will be adequate - I really want to improve though! As part of my holiday work, where can I find general or text specific prompts so I can start practising? Also, is an introduction really not necessary in Lit?
Thank you~
Could you please clarify whether your holiday homework is just finding prompts, or actually writing full practice responses in addition to finding them? To be honest, generally it’s your teacher at school who would provide a starting point with a list of prompts, and you can go beyond once you’ve exhausted the list. It also seems like a weird homework to set. If you want to ensure you have a strong start to lit, focus on thoroughly reading through all your texts during the holidays, doing your own analysis, and possibly reading others’ analysis and critical perspectives. Diving straight into the deep end won’t be very rewarding.
Also I’m a little confused as to what you mean by ‘general/text-specific prompts’ because all prompts in lit are text specific.
Regarding introductions, they can be considered unnecessary for close passage analysis (exam section B), however normally you would still require them in other assessments (as you would be responding to a prompt). :)
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Hello guys! I hope you are well.
I had a question I wanted to ask.
So I've gone to three lessons of literature tutoring so far and we've basically been going through the poems (from a collection) from our booklist as in the tutor has been giving us her themes/analysis/interpretations/annotations about when she wrote her interpretations and stuff. The thing is I'm not sure if this is the right choice for me because the reason I chose Literature in the first place was so that I could write about my own interpretations of the text instead of following someone else's.
Also, the tutor's been giving feedback on my essay and the tutor writes in a completely different style to me and when she annotates my essay, she suggests a sentence that is so complex I don't even understand. Personally, I feel very weird writing in someone else's style of writing because it doesn't feel authentic, if that makes sense.
Sorry for the ramble but I was wondering if anyone had any advice about what I should do and whether I should keep doing tutoring with her?
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Hello guys! I hope you are well.
I had a question I wanted to ask.
So I've gone to three lessons of literature tutoring so far and we've basically been going through the poems (from a collection) from our booklist as in the tutor has been giving us her themes/analysis/interpretations/annotations about when she wrote her interpretations and stuff. The thing is I'm not sure if this is the right choice for me because the reason I chose Literature in the first place was so that I could write about my own interpretations of the text instead of following someone else's.
Also, the tutor's been giving feedback on my essay and the tutor writes in a completely different style to me and when she annotates my essay, she suggests a sentence that is so complex I don't even understand. Personally, I feel very weird writing in someone else's style of writing because it doesn't feel authentic, if that makes sense.
Sorry for the ramble but I was wondering if anyone had any advice about what I should do and whether I should keep doing tutoring with her?
Hey Evolio, personally from purely reading what you wrote, it feels like tutoring may not be the most helpful thing for you right now. With subjects like literature, tutoring is a hit or miss, especially when its requirements and criteria are a lot more loosely defined than something such as maths or science.
That said, it’s perfectly fine to start off by reading other people’s interpretations and analysis, especially this early in the year. It may seem a bit demotivating when you’re so keen to start pumping out your own thoughts and feelings for a text only to be handed what others have wrote instead, but a big part of literature is exactly that - reading and learning the analysis of others. It’s good to keep an open mind about what your tutor has given you: they may not be your own analysis, but it’s a place to start. You can also use it as practice for Section A of the exam - think for yourself whether you agree or disagree with what your tutor has given you, why you think so, and what evidence do you have to back it up.
There is nothing wrong with learning about what others have analysed. Aside from the fact that this is exactly what you have to do for your U4AOS1 SAC and section A of the exam — there is always something to learn from others’ interpretations and you’ll find loads more to explore when you start reading them.
As for writing style, it may seem uncomfortable to write in a style you’ve never written in before, but the truth is you can’t write however you want to on the exam — people say lit has more creative freedom and less structure but this is only true to a certain extent. There still is criteria and certain things you must abide by. When I went into literature I found myself having to change my writing drastically in order to see improvements - it did indeed feel “wrong” and not authentic at first, but with practice it would eventually come naturally.
Of course I don’t really know what ‘style’ you write in or all the details with you and your tutor so that’s purely what I think based on the info you gave. I think you could try talking to your tutor about your worries and see what comes out of it! Good luck :)
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Thank you for the advice colline! I really appreciate it! ;D
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Hi,
How long should it take me to annotate a short story (in a book of a collection of short stories) of around 11 pages? I feel like it takes me way too long but at the same time I'm not sure if I can make insightful annotations quicker.
I'd really appreciate anyone's insight into this.
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Hi,
How long should it take me to annotate a short story (in a book of a collection of short stories) of around 11 pages? I feel like it takes me way too long but at the same time I'm not sure if I can make insightful annotations quicker.
I'd really appreciate anyone's insight into this.
As much as you need! There really is no set guideline around how much time you should spend on annotating. Your end goal is to show the depth and breadth of your analysis through writing, and for most people annotating is the best way to start because it ensures a solid understanding of the text! :)
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Hi everyone!
I have a creative response coming up and I was wondering what the SD meant by a 1000-1500 word count. Is this a combined total of the actual creative and commentary or does this mean both of them should ideally be 1000-1500 words each?
Thanks!
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Hi everyone!
I have a creative response coming up and I was wondering what the SD meant by a 1000-1500 word count. Is this a combined total of the actual creative and commentary or does this mean both of them should ideally be 1000-1500 words each?
Thanks!
It's best to ask your teacher to clarify since SACs are marked internally so different teachers will have different criteria. (When I did lit, for example, our teacher told us to disregard the word limit lol :P)
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I know this is kind of early to be considering this, but does anyone know what kind of sac scores and exam scores you need to get above a 40 in literature? I've used study score calculators but they seem kind of inaccurate :/
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I know this is kind of early to be considering this, but does anyone know what kind of sac scores and exam scores you need to get above a 40 in literature? I've used study score calculators but they seem kind of inaccurate :/
With SACs it's better to look at rankings. Check out your school's historical data and see where your school's 40+'ers in literature were ranked for a rough indication.
As for exam scores, I know someone who got 64/80 and a raw 41 (in 2018). So aim for ~16/20 on all of your essays. Hope this helps!
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I know this is kind of early to be considering this, but does anyone know what kind of sac scores and exam scores you need to get above a 40 in literature? I've used study score calculators but they seem kind of inaccurate :/
Quite decent SAC scores (depending on your cohort this might be rank 1 or ranks 1-10 etc) + at least an A+ (mid 60s+/80) on the exam should put you in a good position for a 40+ study score.
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Hey everyone!
I have a few questions:
1. In close analysis, is it okay to quote from/reference critics? My teacher has suggested that we quote from critical essays on the poems we are studying in our close analysis, but I wanted to confirm this is okay for the exam.
2. For Plath's poetry, I know we're supposed to distance the persona from Plath because they're not necessarily the same. But is it ever okay to discuss how a line could reflect Plath's life or be about her? For example, Lady Lazarus has the line "I am only thirty", which was Plath's age when she wrote that poem. Are we still not allowed to reference the connection between speaker and Plath?
Thanks! :)
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Hey!
For your first question, it's not necessary to quote critics for CPA on the exam (though if your teacher said to do it, then definitely make sure to do so in your SACs). You definitely won't lose marks if you do quote critics on the exam though, provided you quote appropriately, of course.
As for your second question, I didn't study Sylvia Plath so take what I'm about to say with a grain of salt, but I think it is perfectly fine! It shows you understand the context and that you are going beyond what is merely written down in the text.
Hope this helps! :)
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Hey!
For your first question, it's not necessary to quote critics for CPA on the exam (though if your teacher said to do it, then definitely make sure to do so in your SACs). You definitely won't lose marks if you do quote critics on the exam though, provided you quote appropriately, of course.
As for your second question, I didn't study Sylvia Plath so take what I'm about to say with a grain of salt, but I think it is perfectly fine! It shows you understand the context and that you are going beyond what is merely written down in the text.
Hope this helps! :)
Ok, thank you so much! :)
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Hey everyone,
My Northanger Abbey lit perspectives SAC is rapidly approaching and I'm really freaking out about it. I have a very slim grasp of how the readings we've done (on a feminist and Marxist perspective) apply to the text.
I was wondering if anybody had notes/essays for a feminist or Marxist perspective on Northanger Abbey that they could send me - I would appreciate it so much :)
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Hi everyone,
With the literature exam fast approaching, I was just wondering if anyone had any high scoring responses (18-20 range) that they are willing to share. I was also wondering what kind of scores the samples in the examination report would have received since the report always says that they aren't the highest scoring responses but those essays are literally amazing. Any help would be greatly appreciated xxx
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Hi hi,
Do we need to reference literary reviews in our perspectives SAC and Section A on the exam? I just find it a bit hard to memorize my texts and literary review quotes hehe
Thanks!
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Hi hi,
Do we need to reference literary reviews in our perspectives SAC and Section A on the exam? I just find it a bit hard to memorize my texts and literary review quotes hehe
Thanks!
On section A of the exam, you don't have to. You can make references to existing analyses/perspectives but IIRC my teacher told me they want YOUR analyses, not other peoples', so it's a grey area.
On the perspectives SAC IIRC you have to, try asking your teacher. I think it depends on school? I know mine made it compulsory.
Hi everyone,
With the literature exam fast approaching, I was just wondering if anyone had any high scoring responses (18-20 range) that they are willing to share. I was also wondering what kind of scores the samples in the examination report would have received since the report always says that they aren't the highest scoring responses but those essays are literally amazing. Any help would be greatly appreciated xxx
What texts do you have? I can send some for Heart of Darkness & Sylvia Plath's Ariel.
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I was wondering if anyone has extensive annotations, interpretations or close analysis essays surrounding these 7 Emily Dickinson poems? I’ll pay! Message me pleaseee
- Like Rain Sounded till it Curved
- Blazing in Gold and Quenching in Purple
- Narrow Fellow in the Grass
- This is My Letter to the World
- There’s been a Death, in the Opposite House
- There’s something Quieter than Sleep
- To Know just how he Suffered - would be Dear
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Hi!! I'm not too sure if this thread is still active but i'm looking for some help for my upcoming transformations and adaptations SAC (we're doing it on Northanger Abbey and it's film adaptation) My teacher isn't the best so i have a few questions :(
1. How would i structure my essay, do i need a proper introduction and conclusion? am i have approx 3 body paragraphs each discussing a separate point??
2. What am i trying to do?? As in, am i just comparing what's different and whats the same between the two forms and trying to explain the impact of this? (My teacher also said i should avoid writing like a table tennis match but i'm then not too sure what to do?)
3. Within my body paragraphs, how should i approach comparing the forms?
4. just ANYYY tips for better phrasing of sentences (i find mine can get quite long and confusing because i'm trying to say too much at the same time??)
THANK YOU (i hope this thread is still active HAHA)
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Hello! Hope this reply isn't too late.
1. How would i structure my essay, do i need a proper introduction and conclusion? am i have approx 3 body paragraphs each discussing a separate point??
Yes you'll need a proper intro and conclusion. There is no rule that you must use 3 body paragraphs and discuss 3 points though.
2. What am i trying to do?? As in, am i just comparing what's different and whats the same between the two forms and trying to explain the impact of this? (My teacher also said i should avoid writing like a table tennis match but i'm then not too sure what to do?)
Essentially yes - consider things like what's different/the same, why was the decision made (context of the time period etc), how is it different (even if something was kept the same, consider how the change from say, a play to a film, can impact the story), and of course zooming out to look at what it says about the broader historical/political/social/economic context of the time period.
3. Within my body paragraphs, how should i approach comparing the forms?
This is such a broad question haha - do you mean how should paragraphs be structured?
4. just ANYYY tips for better phrasing of sentences (i find mine can get quite long and confusing because i'm trying to say too much at the same time??)
Honestly a lot of lit students fall into the trap of trying to make their sentences sound very sophisticated to the point where it doesn't even sound like english anymore. Just keep in mind that you are marked on how effectively you can get your point across, not how well you can memorise a thesaurus. When I wrote practice essays, I generally look at each sentence and ask myself 'does this actually add anything new to my analysis or does it just echo a point I've already made?' - if it doesn't add anything new, I'd delete it.
Also with paragraphs there's no rule that you must put one idea in one paragraph - generally this results in paragraphs being incredibly long and difficult to read, and the main idea can often get lost.
All the best with your SAC!
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Hey y'all - am currently in the middle of choosing subjects for VCE. I'm having the most trouble choosing which English I'll do. Just wanted to start off by saying English is one of my strongest subjects, however, I have no idea which variation to choose.
BUT, here are some of my questions with Literature
1. I'm still not 100% sure of the differences between mainstream English and Literature - is Literature just using fancier novels/poems & words to complete exams and essays or is there a deeper component to it?
2. (Mostly for yr 12s) Was the final exam easier because you only had to write two essays or was it more difficult because you had more things to consider?
3. Why did you choose Literature over mainstream English or English Language?
Thankyou! Bec xx
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Hey y'all - am currently in the middle of choosing subjects for VCE. I'm having the most trouble choosing which English I'll do. Just wanted to start off by saying English is one of my strongest subjects, however, I have no idea which variation to choose.
BUT, here are some of my questions with Literature
1. I'm still not 100% sure of the differences between mainstream English and Literature - is Literature just using fancier novels/poems & words to complete exams and essays or is there a deeper component to it?
2. (Mostly for yr 12s) Was the final exam easier because you only had to write two essays or was it more difficult because you had more things to consider?
3. Why did you choose Literature over mainstream English or English Language?
Thankyou! Bec xx
Hey Bec! I will try my best to answer some of the questions that you have about Lit as a subject.
1. Mainstream English focuses on a lot of different topics such as argument analysis, oral presentations whereas Lit you are concerned with the thematic values in the texts and the evidence to support your view of the texts. In the exam, Section A is about literary perspectives (lenses) and using this lens to interpret a text whereas Section B is using passages to analyse a text. This is in comparison to mainstream English where you complete language analysis, comparative response and completing an essay based on the prompt required.
2. I haven't sat the final exam yet but for English it is 3 hours - 3 essays and Lit is 2 hours - 2 essays so the ratio is the same. The English exam requires a broader range of techniques that must be applied to each section whereas the Lit exam, based on my experience with prac exams so far, you can use the same analytical tools for both sections. Whilst there is a lot you can write about in the exam, it is more about the depth and nuance you can demonstrate to show your understanding of the book rather than how many points you can write about in the time period.
3. I complete Lit via VSV as only mainstream English is offered at my school and my reasoning was based on the fact that the books that my school chooses for English are... not that great to be honest. Personally I never really considered doing language but I do regret not considering choosing it, but I have not regretted my decision to choose Lit over mainstream English
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Ahhh, thank you so much! I really appreciate you taking the time to reply. This really helps to clear things up for Literature. I didn't realise that you could use the same analytical tools all the way through for Literature - it sounds much better than mainstream!
Thank you for this reply - I wish you lots of luck & good vibes for your exam! I know you will do great :)