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6 Dec 2025

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Edexcel IGCSE Poetry Guide and Practice Questions

user profile picture

Kean Shah @keanshah

These exemplar poetry questions are your roadmap to exam success! They show you exactly the types of comparison... Show more

L
Exemplar Poetry Questions
1. Re-read If- and Do not go gentle into that good night.
Compare the ways the writers present people giving adv

Core Poetry Comparison Questions

You'll notice that comparison questions always follow the same pattern - they ask you to compare how two poems present a specific theme. The key instruction "You should make reference to language, form and structure" appears in every single question, so this is absolutely essential for your answers.

The first three questions cover some of the most popular exam themes. Question 1 pairs "If-" with "Do not go gentle into that good night" to explore how poets present advice-giving. This is brilliant practice because both poems feature older speakers offering guidance to younger people.

Question 2 focuses on sadness, comparing "Remember" with "Piano". Both poems deal with loss and melancholy, but in very different ways - one about accepting death, the other about nostalgic childhood memories.

Exam Tip Notice how the questions give you space for three points - this suggests examiners expect you to make at least three clear comparative points in your answer.

L
Exemplar Poetry Questions
1. Re-read If- and Do not go gentle into that good night.
Compare the ways the writers present people giving adv

Advanced Theme Analysis

Question 3 tackles isolation through "Hide and Seek" and "War Photographer" - two poems that explore loneliness in completely different contexts. One shows childhood isolation, whilst the other presents professional and emotional detachment.

The "moment in time" question (Question 4) is particularly clever, pairing "Blessing" with "Schooltime". Both poems capture specific, vivid moments but with contrasting emotions - joy versus routine.

Questions 5 and 6 dive into more complex themes. The memory comparison between "Search For My Tongue" and "Poem at Thirty-Nine" explores cultural identity and personal reflection. Meanwhile, the society concerns question links "Prayer Before Birth" with "Half-Caste" to examine social criticism.

Study Strategy These questions show that examiners love pairing poems that share themes but approach them from different angles - perfect for showing off your analytical skills!

L
Exemplar Poetry Questions
1. Re-read If- and Do not go gentle into that good night.
Compare the ways the writers present people giving adv

Personal Expression and Memory Themes

Question 7 focuses on personal thoughts, comparing "Sonnet 116" with "If-". This pairing works brilliantly because both poems express deeply personal beliefs - one about love's permanence, the other about life philosophy.

The final question brings everything full circle by comparing memory presentation in "Piano" and "Remember". Both poems deal with remembrance, but "Piano" focuses on involuntary childhood memories whilst "Remember" concerns deliberate memorial after death.

Notice how the questions consistently ask about language, form and structure - this means you need to analyse word choices, poetic techniques, rhyme schemes, rhythm, and how the poems are organised. The three-point structure suggests you should aim for substantial, well-developed comparisons rather than surface-level observations.

Success Formula Each comparison should identify similarities AND differences between the poems, always backing up your points with specific quotations and technical analysis.

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Most popular content: Poetry Analysis

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Quotes from every main character

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10

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4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

 

English Literature

425

6 Dec 2025

3 pages

Edexcel IGCSE Poetry Guide and Practice Questions

user profile picture

Kean Shah

@keanshah

These exemplar poetry questions are your roadmap to exam success! They show you exactly the types of comparison questions you'll face, covering major themes like advice, sadness, isolation, and memory across different anthology poems.

L
Exemplar Poetry Questions
1. Re-read If- and Do not go gentle into that good night.
Compare the ways the writers present people giving adv

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Core Poetry Comparison Questions

You'll notice that comparison questions always follow the same pattern - they ask you to compare how two poems present a specific theme. The key instruction "You should make reference to language, form and structure" appears in every single question, so this is absolutely essential for your answers.

The first three questions cover some of the most popular exam themes. Question 1 pairs "If-" with "Do not go gentle into that good night" to explore how poets present advice-giving. This is brilliant practice because both poems feature older speakers offering guidance to younger people.

Question 2 focuses on sadness, comparing "Remember" with "Piano". Both poems deal with loss and melancholy, but in very different ways - one about accepting death, the other about nostalgic childhood memories.

Exam Tip: Notice how the questions give you space for three points - this suggests examiners expect you to make at least three clear comparative points in your answer.

L
Exemplar Poetry Questions
1. Re-read If- and Do not go gentle into that good night.
Compare the ways the writers present people giving adv

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Advanced Theme Analysis

Question 3 tackles isolation through "Hide and Seek" and "War Photographer" - two poems that explore loneliness in completely different contexts. One shows childhood isolation, whilst the other presents professional and emotional detachment.

The "moment in time" question (Question 4) is particularly clever, pairing "Blessing" with "Schooltime". Both poems capture specific, vivid moments but with contrasting emotions - joy versus routine.

Questions 5 and 6 dive into more complex themes. The memory comparison between "Search For My Tongue" and "Poem at Thirty-Nine" explores cultural identity and personal reflection. Meanwhile, the society concerns question links "Prayer Before Birth" with "Half-Caste" to examine social criticism.

Study Strategy: These questions show that examiners love pairing poems that share themes but approach them from different angles - perfect for showing off your analytical skills!

L
Exemplar Poetry Questions
1. Re-read If- and Do not go gentle into that good night.
Compare the ways the writers present people giving adv

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Personal Expression and Memory Themes

Question 7 focuses on personal thoughts, comparing "Sonnet 116" with "If-". This pairing works brilliantly because both poems express deeply personal beliefs - one about love's permanence, the other about life philosophy.

The final question brings everything full circle by comparing memory presentation in "Piano" and "Remember". Both poems deal with remembrance, but "Piano" focuses on involuntary childhood memories whilst "Remember" concerns deliberate memorial after death.

Notice how the questions consistently ask about language, form and structure - this means you need to analyse word choices, poetic techniques, rhyme schemes, rhythm, and how the poems are organised. The three-point structure suggests you should aim for substantial, well-developed comparisons rather than surface-level observations.

Success Formula: Each comparison should identify similarities AND differences between the poems, always backing up your points with specific quotations and technical analysis.

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

3

Smart Tools NEW

Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines

Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay

Most popular content: Poetry Analysis

Most popular content in English Literature

English - inspector calls quotes and analysis

Quotes from every main character

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
10

Most popular content

English - inspector calls quotes and analysis

Quotes from every main character

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
10

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user