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Case Study: Three Brothers & A Little Sister
4 minute read
Three brothers
Grade 9s in both subjects
Edexcel IGCSE syllabus
Introduction
Meet a remarkable family where academic excellence has practically become a family heirloom. I’ve had the pleasure of tutoring three brothers, each embarking on their unique journey through the labyrinth of English literature and language. From the eldest, who soared to achieve Grade 9s in both subjects, to the youngest, who clinched Grade 8s after battling through the chaos of the pandemic, it’s been a rewarding ride. Now, their younger sister is stepping up, eager to outshine her brothers as she transitions to Year 10.
Here’s how we tackled “Macbeth,” “Of Mice and Men,” “An Inspector Calls,” and an anthology packed with 42 poetry and prose texts for the Edexcel IGCSE syllabus.
Background
All boys were keen scientists, mathematicians, and sportsmen but found essay writing and literary analysis as perplexing as a riddle wrapped in an enigma. Fast forward through the years, and each brother has turned these initial struggles into top grades.
Eldest Brother
Achieved grade 9 in English Literature and grade 9 in English Language.
Second Brother
Achieved grade 9 in English Literature and grade 9 in English Language.
Youngest Brother
Achieved grade 8 in English Literature and grade 8 in English Language.
Their little sister
In progress. Watch this space!
Teaching Approach
Step 1
Tailored Strategy
Each child’s journey was unique, but our core strategy remained consistent – to have all content covered and notes captured 4 weeks before the mock exams in Year 11. The syllabus was broken down into the individual skills. A personalised roadmap was created for each child. Frequent testing was used to measure progress and adjustments were made to keep progress on track.
The key texts were explored to the deepest details that allowed them to comment on the sociological, philosophical and contextual ‘Gold’ ideas that elevated their response far beyond their classmates to stick out in examiner’s. All the while, a set of efficient revision notes were created to save time in the future and promote healthier, less stressful study habits.
Step 2
Tools and Resources
To distinguish their responses from the pack, we delved into my personal research to unearth the deeper ideas and themes that unlock the highest grades. We compiled quotes and analyses, teaching them to organise their studies into efficient, searchable notes. Regular testing promoted deep retention of knowledge, while essay writing and unique colour-coded feedback sessions honed their skills, making their arguments clearer and their analyses sharper.
Progress and Development
Milestones
Each had their milestones and breakthroughs:
Eldest Brother
Struggled initially but found his stride with “Macbeth,” eventually mastering essay structure and critical analysis.
Second Brother
Discovered a love for the cryptic qualities of poetry and the social messages hidden within stanzas. He developed a flair for creative writing and an aptitude for independent study.
Youngest Brother
Overcame multiple challenges, including missing a year of school, which put the onus on our lessons to bridge the gap. He also tackled a lack of cultural awareness, a growing issue in today’s ‘on demand’ media age, which is crucial for understanding literary texts.
Little Sister
Has just completed Year 9 and has blossomed from barely knowing how to identify relevant examples or existence of deeper subtext to now constructing top drawer laser-focused analytical paragraphs that delve into the connotations and hidden implications of single keywords and the emotional effects of techniques. Along the way, she’s been assembling exam ready revision notes on her Anthology of 42 texts. The boys have met their match!
Other Challenges Overcome
Along the way, like all students, we battled distractions, procrastination, doubts, oh… and the occasional worldwide pandemic. With tailored support, persistence and a sprinkling of timely pep talks, each has overcome these hurdles.
Results
Achievements
The results speak for themselves. The eldest and second brothers both achieved top marks, while the youngest performed exceptionally well with grade 8s. Little Sister is hot on their heels!
Personal Growth
Beyond grades, each brother grew in confidence and analytical skills. They not only excelled in exams but also became more active in class discussions and developed a genuine appreciation for literature.
Their Father has remarked on how their critical thinking and writing skills improved across all subjects.
Conclusion
All three boys broke the cliche that they’re not creative or suited to the ‘grey area’ thinking of English. Previously disillusioned, these three brothers responded well to an approach that breaks English down into black and white steps to form a solidly structured foundation that allowed them to branch off creatively in multiple directions.
Summary
As their trusted family tutor, it’s been immensely rewarding to watch each of them transform from hesitant novices to confident top performers.
Now, with their sister poised to take on the challenge, I’m excited to guide another family member to success.
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