How should I approach an unseen poem for an exam?

Approaching an unseen poem can be challenging, often it takes time to get to know a poem. But don't worry, there are always a few tips and tricks that will help you prepare. First of all just sit and read the poem from start to finish, no need to do anything else initially. Secondly, read the poem again but this time with a pen in your hand. Underline or highlight every section of the poem that stands out to you - whether that's a particular words, repitition of a sound or letter, a rhyme, or a just a bit you're particularly drawn to. Next consider the year the poem was written and who wrote it - if you know anything about them or the time period consider that in the context of the poem. Is it Victorian, what issues could that raise? Is it written by a woman, how would this influence your reading of the poem? 

Once you've read the poem through two or three times and pulled out these key ideas and moments it's time to start connecting the dots a little. What do you think these standout moments are trying to say? What is the effect of the repetition in the poem? It's important at this point to think back to some of the poetic jargon you may already know. For example, if the poem contains a lot of "S" sounds, then you can apply the term 'sibilance' and explain why it may be that the poet evoked this 'hissing' sounds. Consider other terms you may have learnt, is there any enjambment or can you spot a rhyming pattern? 

One of the most important things to do is to just keep questionning when reading the poem. Ask yourself what the poem evokes and what the author's intent may have been. Once you've considered these things and spotted some poetic devices you can start forming your essay plan.