O-LevelLiterature in EnglishPoetry2010/12 · Oct/Nov 2015 · Q625 Marks

Explore the ways in which Halligan uses words and images vividly in The Cockroach. The Cockroach I watched a giant cockroach start to pace, Skirting a ball of dust that rode the floor. At first he seemed quite satisfied to trace A path between the wainscot and the door, But soon he turned to jog in crooked rings, Circling the rusty table leg and back, And flipping right over to scratch his wings – As if the victim of a mild attack Of restlessness that worsened over time. After a while, he climbed an open shelf And stopped. He looked uncertain where to go. Was this due payment for some vicious crime A former life had led to? I don’t know, Except I thought I recognised myself. (Kevin Halligan)

Explore the ways in which Halligan uses words and images vividly in The Cockroach.[25]

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (Oct/Nov 2015). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

[25-23] Answers in this band have all the qualities of Band 2 work, with further insight, sensitivity, individuality and flair.
[25-23] They show sustained engagement with both text and task.
[25-23] Sustains a perceptive, convincing and relevant personal response
[25-23] • shows a clear critical understanding of the text
[25-23] • responds sensitively and in detail to the way the writer achieves her/his effects
[25-23] • integrates much well-selected reference to the text

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