Paula Meehan - Poetry Notes for Leaving Certificate

This comprehensive resource is designed to guide students step by step in preparing a full poetry essay on Paula Meehan. Each poem is presented with:

• Clear and accessible summaries
• Key quotes with explanations
• Major themes explored
• Analysis of style and tone
• A highlight sentence showing how the poem links to oppression, resilience, or dignity

At the end of every poem, lined space is provided so students can write their own exam-style paragraph immediately, gradually building up material for a complete essay.

**Also included:
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• The exam question students will prepare for: “Meehan employs vibrant and forceful language skilfully to challenge the often-oppressive forces identified in her poetry.”
• A PCLM guide and scaffold for paragraph writing
• A Synonyms Bank to help students vary their essay language
• A Linking Word Bank to keep essays flowing smoothly between poems
• Introduction and conclusion writing tips with sample frames
• A post-writing checklist so students can self-correct and ensure they stay focused on the question

This resource is exam-focused but written in clear, student-friendly language. It will support students in moving from poem-by-poem understanding to producing a full, coherent, and confident Leaving Certificate essay.

Perfect for classroom teaching, revision, or independent study.