Show sustained literary analysis with reference to the text and its effects.

Component 3 – Coursework Portfolio (Optional)

📚 What Is a Coursework Portfolio?

A coursework portfolio is a collection of your best work that shows how you can analyse literature in depth. Think of it as a “showcase” of your literary detective skills, where you present evidence from the text, interpret it, and explain its effect on the reader.

✍️ How to Plan Your Portfolio

• Choose 2–3 texts you love (novel, play, poem, short story).
• Decide on a common theme or question (e.g., “How is identity explored?”).
• Create a timeline: research, draft, revise, final polish.
• Keep a research log: note page numbers, quotes, and your initial thoughts.

🔍 Writing the Analysis

Follow the classic PEEL structure for each paragraph:

1. Point – State the claim.
2. Evidence – Quote or paraphrase the text.
3. Explanation – Show how the evidence supports your point.
4. Link – Connect back to the main argument or theme.

Remember to use literary terms (e.g., imagery, foreshadowing, irony) and explain their effect on the reader.

📑 Referencing & Formatting

• Use Harvard style for in-text citations: (Author, Year, p. 23).
• Include a reference list at the end.
• Keep your font readable (Times New Roman or Garamond, 12pt).
• Double‑space your text and leave 1.5cm margins.

🎯 Assessment Criteria (Marking Scheme)

📝 Example Outline

1. Introduction
   • Hook: a striking quote or question.
   • Context of the texts.
   • Thesis statement.
2. Body Paragraph 1 – Text A
   • Point 1 with evidence.
   • Explanation of effect.
3. Body Paragraph 2 – Text B
   • Point 2 with evidence.
   • Explanation of effect.
4. Body Paragraph 3 – Comparative Analysis
   • Compare and contrast.
   • Show how the theme evolves.
5. Conclusion
   • Summarise key insights.
   • Reflect on the significance.
6. Reference List

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over‑quoting: let your voice lead.
• Weak links: always tie back to the thesis.
• Inconsistent formatting: keep headings and margins uniform.
• Missing citations: plagiarism is a big no‑no.

📚 Resources & Further Reading

• Cambridge IGCSE Literature Guide – Cambridge University Press
• BBC Bitesize – Literary Terms & Analysis BBC Bitesize
• Oxford Bookworms – Practice texts with commentary Oxford Bookworms
• Essay Writing Toolkit – Essay Toolkit

💡 Final Tips

• Start early: give yourself time for research and revision.
• Peer review: swap drafts with a friend for fresh feedback.
• Read aloud: it helps spot awkward phrasing.
• Stay curious: ask “why” at every turn of the analysis.