From Pen to Page - Personal Writing is a clear, structured, and exam-focused resource designed to support students preparing for the personal essay on the Higher Level Leaving Certificate Paper 1. This booklet helps students understand the reflective nature of personal writing while developing an authentic voice, emotional honesty, and purposeful structure.

**What’s Included:
*** An accessible explanation of what a personal essay is

• Guidance on tone, style, and finding an authentic voice
• A full breakdown of what examiners reward, linked directly to the PCLM marking scheme
• A detailed section on the features of strong personal writing
• “Instead of saying this… say this” examples to improve phrasing and expression
• Tasks on voice, honesty, reflection, and developing ideas
• Structured guidance on openings, development, and endings
• Quick practice activities for use in class or homework
• A full section on language and stylistic techniques
• Five sample personal essays (2015–2025), each with annotations, PCLM-style examiner breakdowns, and follow-up student tasks
• Tone exploration activities and comparison tasks
• A clear list of personal essay do’s and don’ts
• Practice titles from recent exam papers

**Why this resource works:
*** Breaks down the personal essay into manageable, student-friendly steps

• Provides a strong emphasis on voice, reflection, and purpose — the core skills examiners reward
• Model responses and annotated samples make expectations clear and achievable
• Supports mixed-ability classes with scaffolding, exemplars, and practical tasks
• Ideal for direct instruction, independent writing, station teaching, or revision

Perfect for:
Leaving Certificate Higher Level
Mixed-ability Senior Cycle English classes
Teachers who want a structured, ready-to-use resource that links directly to PCLM

Format: PDF
Optimised for printing, projecting, or digital classroom use.