English Paper 2 was a highly accessible and balanced exam, offering fair opportunities for students of all abilities.
The Single Text questions, which featured texts such as John B. Keane’s Sive and Shakespeare’s King Lear, focused on relatable themes including sympathy for characters, character relationships, and the satisfaction of the texts’ endings. These prompts were engaging and manageable for well-prepared students.
The Comparative Study section was particularly approachable. Students who had thoughtfully considered their chosen texts would have appreciated the focus on relationships, especially how they evolve and what they reveal about the characters involved.
The Prescribed Poetry section offered a pleasing variety, including Sinead Morrissey’s, Genetics and Liz Lochhead’s Revelation, alongside poems by Eavan Boland and Emily Dickinson. The questions here were clear, stimulating, and allowed for personal engagement with the material.
The Unseen Poem, First Day by Cork poet Theo Dorgan, invited students to reflect on their impressions of the poet while showcasing their ability to interpret and analyse language effectively.
Overall, this paper rewarded diligent students for their preparation while still providing accessible and engaging content for all.
