SKILLS

Linking analysis to big ideas
FAQ

These FAQ pages are designed to provide a quick summary of each skill. Use them to do some last minute revision before assessments. They are generated by AI which has been trained on the guide pages on the website.

  1. What are "big ideas" in literature?

    "Big ideas" in literature refer to the universal concepts and themes that a text explores, going beyond the surface level of plot and characters to address fundamental questions about the human condition. These ideas delve into aspects of human nature, societal structures, and the complexities of life. For instance, a story might delve into themes like love, loss, betrayal, ambition, or the search for identity.

  2. How are "big ideas" different from themes?

    While often used interchangeably, "themes" are essentially recurring big ideas within a text. A single big idea, like justice, might appear at a specific point in a narrative without being a major focus. Conversely, a theme, like the corrupting nature of power, would be explored repeatedly through various characters and events.

  3. How do I identify the "big ideas" in an essay question?

    Essay questions often explicitly state the big ideas they want you to address, like "How does the author present ideas about redemption?" Sometimes, however, these ideas are implied. For example, a question about a character's transformation might suggest exploring themes of growth, identity, or the impact of external forces on an individual.

  4. How can I make my essay focus on "big ideas?"

    Start by crafting topic sentences that directly address the big ideas relevant to the question. When analyzing textual evidence, connect your observations back to these broader themes. Instead of merely describing what happens, explain its significance in relation to the human condition.

  5. How do I move from analysing textual evidence to discussing "big ideas?"

    Begin by grounding your analysis in the text, providing specific examples like quotes or events. Then, make a gradual shift from this specific evidence to a more general discussion of the "big ideas" it reflects. For example, you might analyze a character's actions and then discuss what those actions reveal about ambition or morality.

  6. Can I discuss "big ideas" without explicitly mentioning the author's message?

    Absolutely! While exploring the author's message often involves discussing "big ideas," you can also analyse these themes by focusing on what the text reveals about human experiences and the world, regardless of the author's intentions. Your interpretation matters.

  7. Why is it important to write about "big ideas" in literary analysis?

    Writing about "big ideas" demonstrates a deeper understanding of the text and its relevance beyond the narrative itself. It shows your ability to connect the text to broader human experiences and engage with the text on a more analytical and insightful level.

  8. What is the most important thing to remember when writing about "big ideas?"

    Always ground your analysis in textual evidence. While discussing universal themes, ensure you support your claims with specific examples from the text. Avoid making broad generalisations about life without connecting them to the specific context of the literary work you're analysing.