Poetry (Prescribed Textbook)
What poetry questions test
Poetry (Prescribed Textbook) tests central idea, tone, mood, poetic devices, rhyme, and the effect of word choice. You must name a device, quote the words, and explain what it does.
Core rules
- Read the poem aloud once to hear the rhythm and rhyme.
- Paraphrase each stanza in one sentence; then write the central idea in one sentence.
- Device checklist: simile, metaphor, personification, alliteration, repetition, hyperbole, imagery, apostrophe.
- For tone, use precise adjectives such as hopeful, nostalgic, defiant, or reflective, and support them with words from the poem.
- Link the device to meaning, not just to its name.
Worked example
In 'The Fountain', the water rises, falls, and rises again. The poet uses this movement as an image of human effort. Reasoning: the poem is not only a description of water. The rising and falling suggests that effort continues despite setbacks. If asked 'What does the fountain symbolise?', answer 'perseverance and upward striving', then support it with the image of the water rising again after it falls. If asked about the device, say 'metaphor' or 'extended image', quote the relevant words, and explain the comparison.
Traps
Naming 'personification' without explaining its effect; paraphrasing the whole poem instead of answering the question; confusing the poet with the speaker; ignoring rhyme or rhythm questions; writing a vague moral.
Key points
- Paraphrase each stanza before answering.
- Name the device, quote it, explain its effect.
- Tone needs evidence from word choice.
- Central idea must cover the whole poem.
- Keep the poet and the speaker separate.