Explore how Haddon presents Christopher’s unique perspective in The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time. Remember to support your answer with relevant textual details.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme. The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. AO1: Respond to texts critically and imaginatively; select and synthesise relevant textual detail to support exploration and analysis.
2. AO2: Analyse the language, form and structure of texts, and explain how these are used to create meanings and effects.
3. AO4: Demonstrate understanding of the significance and influence of the contexts in which texts were written and received.
4. AO5: Communicate clearly and cogently in writing, using appropriate vocabulary and grammar and accurate spelling and punctuation.
5. Indicative Content (Examiners should reward any valid interpretations):
6. - Candidates should explore how Haddon presents Christopher’s unique perspective in The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.
7. - Responses may include exploration of: Christopher’s literal and logical way of thinking; His reliance on facts and systems; His difficulty understanding emotions and social cues; His sensory sensitivities and perceptions (e.g. specific details, colours, smells); His preference for solitude and routines; His struggle with metaphors and euphemisms; His unique approach to solving problems and navigating the world; The impact of his perspective on his relationships and experiences.
8. - Candidates should also consider Haddon’s techniques in presenting Christopher’s unique perspective.
9. - For example, candidates may refer to: Language: first-person narrative voice, direct and factual prose, lists, diagrams, mathematical explanations, logical sequences, rejection of figurative language; Structure: fragmented narrative reflecting Christopher’s thought processes, non-linear progression, short chapters, inclusion of ‘digressions’ (e.g. prime numbers, physics); Form: epistolary novel (written as Christopher’s book); Context: representations of neurodiversity/autism, challenges of communication and understanding, the nature of truth and perception.