Subjects at a glance

Maths, English and Irish for the mocks

Maths

(1) The old log tables which remained unchanged for over 40 years have now been replaced by a new booklet of formulae and tables.

This 94-page booklet contains almost every formula that you can use in answering any question in maths and the other relevant subjects, although for higher level students, a small number of algebraic formulae relating to quadratic equations are still not included.

There is also a small number of errors in the first edition, and students can download a single page of amendments from the SEC website at examinations.ie. An amended copy of the booklet will be given to every student in your exam centres in June.

(2) The publication of the new formulae and tables booklet changes the nature of the maths exam for you. You will no longer be rewarded for knowing the formulae that is relevant to a particular question.

From 2010 onwards, you will be rewarded for knowing which formula is relevant to a particular question, where you can locate it in your booklet, and how you can apply it to the question asked. It is vital that you familiarise yourself with this new booklet and practise using it over the coming weeks.

(3) Even though you are required to attempt six questions, attempt all eight questions on the paper if you have time, as you will be marked out of your best six. Do not avoid a question if you cannot do a part (b) or (c), as you will get marks for all the work you attempt.

(4) Always start your work by attempting your strongest question, as this will build your confidence, and help you to relax into the exam.

(5) Take your time in answering the first question you attempt – silly mistakes happen due to nerves and rushing through your answer. You can speed up your answers as your confidence builds. On average you should give yourself 25 minutes per question.

(6) In the days running up to your mocks, practice by doing two questions per night, from past papers.

Start with the part (a) questions as they are easiest, building up to the parts (b) and (c). If you cannot answer a part (c) ask your teacher to explain it to you.

English

(1) English paper one requires you to write a composition, as well as answering one question (a) and one question (b) based on three comprehension texts. You must answer question (a) from one of these texts and question (b) from a second text. If you answer question (a) and question (b) from the same text, the examiner will only count the marks from one of your two answers.

(2) Hopefully, you have been practising compositions on a number of possible themes, making use of the different styles of English specified in the syllabus. It is very important that you keep honing your technique in the range of writing tasks presented on the paper.

(3) Some of you may be tempted to write a prepared essay, rather than responding spontaneously to the task presented on the paper. But if you can make use of materials from one of the comprehension texts in writing your essay, you will show your capacity for spontaneity and originality of thought.

(4) It is important to structure your essay very carefully. For example, a story can be greatly enriched by the use of a literary technique such as foreshadowing, in which intriguing hints are given to the reader about the ending, in such a way as to maximise its impact.

(5) Paper two English begins with a single text question, which for many higher level students in 2010 may be based on Shakespeare’s King Lear. In addressing the “single text question”, you must build an argument based on the exact question asked and display a detailed knowledge of the work, supporting points you make by reference and/or quotation from the play.

(6) In attempting the “comparative studies question”, students often lose marks by focusing on one text, rather than developing a point of comparison between them. Make sure you get the texts “talking to each other” and do not stray from the language of comparison. Don’t just summarise the texts!

(7) In answering the “unseen poetry question”, look for key words or phrases, which may be repeated in the poem, which can give valuable clues as to the theme. An awareness of poetic techniques, such as metaphor, imagery, rhyme, etc arising from your study of the prescribed poetry will also be useful.

(8) On poetry, the questions are designed to allow you express your appreciation. Show that you have a deep understanding of the poet.

Irish

(1) The composition question on higher level paper one will range over predictable themes which you will have prepared. When you read your list of possible titles the fit with some of your prepared material may not be immediately evident. However, if you allow yourself time to consider the range of compositions you should find that at least one gives you the opening you need.

(2) In answering the “comprehension question” at both higher and ordinary level, you are being tested on your understanding of written Irish. Be careful to quote the correct information. For higher level students rephrasing material will also be necessary, to achieve full marks. Do not leave any blanks – the answer is on the paper!

(3) In Irish paper two you will be examined on the five stories you have studied. Make sure you know the main points in correct Irish of each of these stories. You must know the story, the characters, their traits, and the major themes of each story.

(4) Poetry questions: If you are taking the ordinary level paper you will be questioned on five poems. There is no choice involved in one of these questions, so you must study all five poems.

Those taking higher level Irish will answer questions on the ordinary level poems, plus an additional eight poems. Read the poems you select carefully, and identify their themes, the main feelings expressed, and the poetic techniques used. Students are expected to rewrite lines from the poem in their own words. Ordinary level students will be expected to give two reasons why they liked/disliked the poem.

(5) In answering the history question on the higher paper it is sufficient to write a paragraph on each of three main points. Prepare this in advance.

(6) To assist you in preparing for both the aural and oral components of the exam, it is extremely useful to look at programmes such as

Nuacht

and

Ros na Rún

on TG4.