First 4 Marks: Commonality and Extract

This page details how to approach the first 4 marks of the question, focusing on commonality and extract analysis.

For Commonality (2 marks):

• Make a link between the question, the extract, and the rest of the play

For Extract (2 marks):

• Use a P-E-E-L structure (Point, Evidence, Explanation, Link)
• Identify a technique or example from the extract that links to the question

Example: In analyzing "The Slab Boys," you might discuss how the extract demonstrates frustrated ambition through Phil's art portfolio discovery.

Commonality Example

This page provides a detailed example of a Commonality answer for "The Slab Boys."

Key points:

• Frustrated ambition is linked to characters' social class
• The extract highlights Phil's talent and ambition through his art folio
• Throughout the play, characters reveal desires to escape or improve their situations
• Ambitions are frustrated by authority figures, meaningless processes, or the class system

Quote: "Each of these characters ambition is to move on to better things. They are frustrated as they feel they are being held back by authority figures, meaningless time consuming processes or a class system which is preventing them from achieving their aspirations."

Extract Analysis

This section explains how to analyze the extract for the remaining 2 marks of the first 4.

Key points:

• Identify an aspect of frustrated ambition in the printed extract
• Comment on how it develops the theme
• Use a P-E-E-L structure for your analysis

Highlight: Mastering extract analysis is crucial for success in the SQA Higher English folio.