SECTION A: POETRY SONGS OF OURSELVES VOLUME 2: from Part 2 Remember to support your ideas with details from the writing. Read this poem, and then answer the question that follows it: Coming On longer evenings, Light, chill and yellow, Bathes the serene Foreheads of houses. A thrush sings, Laurel-surrounded In the deep bare garden, Its fresh-peeled voice Astonishing the brickwork. It will be spring soon, It will be spring soon— And I, whose childhood Is a forgotten boredom, Feel like a child Who comes on a scene Of adult reconciling, And can understand nothing But the unusual laughter, And starts to be happy. (Philip Larkin) How does Larkin vividly convey his response to the coming of spring in this poem?

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (Oct/Nov 2019). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. All questions are marked out of 25.
2. AO1 show detailed knowledge of the content of literary texts, supported by reference to the text
3. AO2 understand the meanings of literary texts and their context, and explore texts beyond surface meaning to show deeper awareness of ideas and attitudes
4. AO3 recognise and appreciate ways in which writers use language, structure, and form to create and shape meanings and effects
5. AO4 communicate a sensitive and informed personal response.
6. Band 8 [23-25] demonstrates knowledge by incorporating well-selected reference to the text skilfully and with flair (AO1)
7. Band 8 [23-25] sustains a critical understanding of the text showing individuality and insight (AO2)
8. Band 8 [23-25] responds sensitively and in considerable detail to the way the writer achieves her / his effects (AO3)
9. Band 8 [23-25] sustains personal and evaluative engagement with task and text (AO4)