IGCSE English Literature 0475 - Component 3: Coursework Portfolio

This document provides detailed notes for the Component 3 coursework portfolio, which requires submission of two assignments: one on drama or prose, and the other on poetry. These assignments demonstrate your ability to analyze and evaluate literary texts.

Overview of Component 3

Component 3 allows you to explore your interests in either drama or prose, and poetry in greater depth. This component is an optional part of the IGCSE English Literature course but provides valuable opportunity to develop your analytical skills.

Assignment 1: Drama or Prose

Task

You must choose either a drama text or a prose text that you have studied during the course. Your assignment should be a critical essay of approximately 1000-1200 words.

Possible Texts (Examples - not exhaustive):

• Drama: Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare, A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare, The Crucible by Arthur Miller, Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller, Glengarry Glen Ross by David Mamet
• Prose: Animal Farm by George Orwell, Lord of the Flies by William Golding, Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck, Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, A Passage to India by E.M. Forster

Essay Structure & Content

1. Introduction: Clearly state your chosen text and your main argument (thesis statement).
2. Body Paragraphs: Develop your argument with specific textual evidence (quotations) and analysis. Consider aspects such as:
   • Character development
   • Themes
   • Setting
   • Language and Imagery
   • Structure (for drama)
   • Authorial intent
3. Conclusion: Summarise your main points and restate your thesis in a new way. Offer a final thought or evaluation of the text's significance.

Assessment Criteria

Criteria	Description
Understanding of the Text	Demonstrates a thorough understanding of the plot, characters, and themes of the chosen text.
Analysis and Interpretation	Provides insightful analysis and interpretation of the text, supported by relevant textual evidence.
Argumentation	Presents a clear and well-supported argument with a coherent structure.
Use of Language	Uses precise and sophisticated language effectively.
Structure and Organisation	The essay is well-structured and organised with clear paragraphs and transitions.

Assignment 2: Poetry

Task

You must choose a selection of poems (at least 3) from a single poet or a related theme that you have studied during the course. Your assignment should be a critical essay of approximately 800-1000 words.

Possible Poets/Themes (Examples - not exhaustive):

• Poets: William Wordsworth, William Blake, T.S. Eliot, Sylvia Plath, Ted Hughes, Langston Hughes
• Themes: Nature, Love, Loss, Identity, Social Commentary, War

Essay Structure & Content

1. Introduction: Introduce the poet/theme and state your main argument (thesis statement).
2. Body Paragraphs: Analyse the selected poems individually and/or in relation to each other. Consider aspects such as:
   • Structure and Form (e.g., sonnet, ballad, free verse)
   • Language and Imagery
   • Sound Devices (e.g., rhyme, rhythm, alliteration)
   • Themes and Ideas
   • The poet's use of poetic techniques
3. Conclusion: Summarise your main points and offer a final evaluation of the poet's work or the chosen theme.

Assessment Criteria

Criteria	Description
Understanding of the Poems	Demonstrates a thorough understanding of the content and techniques used in the selected poems.
Analysis and Interpretation	Provides insightful analysis and interpretation of the poems, supported by relevant textual evidence.
Comparison and Contrast (if applicable)	Effectively compares and contrasts the selected poems.
Use of Language	Uses precise and sophisticated language effectively.
Structure and Organisation	The essay is well-structured and organised with clear paragraphs and transitions.

General Guidelines for Both Assignments

• Textual Evidence: Always support your arguments with direct quotations from the text.
• Analysis: Don't just state what happens; explain *how* and *why* the author uses language and literary techniques.
• Planning: Plan your essays carefully before you start writing.
• Referencing: While formal referencing isn't required, it's good practice to acknowledge the text you are analysing.
• Word Count: Adhere to the specified word count for each assignment.
• Submission: Ensure your assignments are submitted by the deadline.

This information is intended as a guide. Your teacher will provide more specific instructions and guidance on the requirements of each assignment.