An overview of the step-by-step approach I recommend for tackling the theme-based question in the Edexcel IGCSE Literature exam task for Harper Lee's novel

1. Theme-focused exam task
To Kill a Mockingbird

2. • Knowledge of the text
• Personal engagement with the task
• Critical style
AO1
AO4
• Understanding of the
relationship between the text
and context in which it was
written

3. • How does the theme
present itself?
Theme
study
• Narrative perspective
• Character attitudes/actions
• Key narrative events
• How does the theme
reflect the context in which
it is written and set?

4. Show how prejudice is significant in ‘To Kill a
Mockingbird’.
You must consider the context of the novel in
your answer

5. • Knowledge of the text
• Personal engagement with the task
• Critical style
AO1

6. Step 1 – Interrogate the question
• What kinds of prejudice are there in the
novel?
• Are some focused upon more than others?
• How does that prejudice manifest?
• What is significant about it?
• What effect/impact does it have in the novel?
• What effect/impact does it have on YOU?

7. Step 2 – Work chronologically through the
text and identify source material that might
be useful
(make brief notes and jot down brief
quotations)

8. AO4
• Understanding of the
relationship between the text
and context in which it was
written

9. Step 3 – examine your notes and reflect on
ways in which your knowledge on context
might be seeded into your answer.

10. Step 4 – Now organize your notes into a plan
• What would be a logical order for your paragraphs?
• What evidence will you use to support your answer?
• How can you ensure ‘context’ is seeded throughout your essay?
• What conclusion do you want to present (the summary of your
exploration of this theme?

11. Step 5 – Write the essay
Step 6 – Edit/proof-read the essay
Step 7 – Take a bow!