Observation

A good number of candidates attempted this question. However, their responses showed that they did not understand the demands of the question. They failed to make references to the poet’s use of diction that elucidates the theme.

The required answer should include the following points:

• Statement of the theme.


• Description of the birches.


• Use of sight and sound images.


• Use as pastime (leisure).


• Impact on persona’s experience of and outlook on life. Words and phrases appealing to the senses of sight and sound.

Candidates’ performance in this question was poor.