Learning Log 5

    After reading 'The Unseen', I learnt some techniques on how to tackle either unseen poem or prose passage. First of all, when approaching an unseen poem, we have to read the poem at least twice. As we read, we have to take note of our feelings and where our attentions are drawn to. Making shorts and clear notes on the poem is also beneficial to us. There are also some pitfalls to avoid.
    
     As for unseen passage, we have to read at least three times. We have to try to understand the meanings of the difficult words and phrases that we may not understand by studying the way they are used. There are also Do's and Don'ts when answering questions.
    
     Organizing our answers is also a crucial part. There are two techniques which are helpful in helping us to organize our answers. One of which is IBL (Introduction, Body and Conclusion) and the other one is PEEL (Point, Explain Elaborate, Evidence Example and Link). The quickest way to show evidence is to quote. We have to keep our quotes easier and interesting to read. We should also take note that the quotes used should add value to the point and not merely repeat the point. As far as possible, the quotes should be included within the sentences or points made. Do not simply start a sentence with a quote.
    
     I have also read Chapter 20 which in on how to organize and write the essay. By analysing the text in detail is not enough. We must be able to express our ideas coherently and persuasively. We have to jot down our impression of text's meanings, interpret the text, analyse the text in detailed and insight and response. I have also learnt skills in organizing an essay. We have to start our essay with a statement which immediately answer the question and state our standpoint. Whereas for the body, we have to apply the PEEP principle. For conclusion, we can reiterate major claim or argument, summarize key points and provide philosophical insight and summative respond.
  
     Lastly will be the irony. It refers to a contradiction in a situation or a statement. There are two main irony-situational irony and verbal irony.
    
     To sum up my learning log, I would like to comment that, through reading the 'The Unseen', I have really learnt a lot of new things. The information given is useful to me when I am attempting to unseen poem and prose passage.