This structured resource is designed to help Leaving Certificate students plan and write a high-quality poetry essay on Derek Mahon. It focuses on the key exam question:
“Derek Mahon explores people and places in his own distinctive style.”

The booklet guides students step-by-step through the essay-writing process, making it ideal for both Higher and Ordinary Level classes, including mixed-ability groups.

What’s included:

• Clear introduction to Derek Mahon (background, themes, style)
• Breakdown of the exam question in student-friendly language
• Paragraph structure guide based on PCLM
• Synonym banks and linking phrases to improve writing

Detailed notes on key poems:

• Antarctica
• Day Trip to Donegal
• A Disused Shed in Co. Wexford
• Ecclesiastes
• As It Should Be
• After the Titanic
• Grandfather

For each poem:

• Summary
• Key quotes with analysis
• Themes
• Style and tone
• Direct links to the exam question
• Sample paragraph
• Introduction and conclusion writing frames
• Post-writing checklist to help students self-assess and improve their work

Why this resource works:
This booklet breaks the essay into manageable steps, helping students build one paragraph at a time before combining them into a full essay. It promotes clarity, structure, and confidence in exam writing while reinforcing key skills needed for success.

Ideal for revision, homework, or in-class essay preparation.