How do I approach a literature or film essay question?

The idea of writing an analytical essay in French can seem daunting at first but it is important to feel confident, as the long essay questions can make up a considerable percentage of the marks in an A-Level paper. Firstly, plan your essay, the examiner will be expecting to see this and some boards may even recognise bullet points that you have made during the planning phase if you run out of time at the end. Try mark out a clear structure of: Introduction, Paragraph 1, Paragrraph 2, Paragraph 3, (Paragraph 4), Conclusion.  For a “Dans quelle mesure” plan for two paragraphs for and two paragraphs against the notion proposed; For an “Analysez” question, 3 paragraphs might be sufficient evidence of your knowledge of the text. Either way, ensure that you have outlined a clear way to link to the question at the end of each paragraph. The introduction need not be long. Try to include some key context of the text and show your understanding of the question by posing rhetorically with different vocabulary. End with a transition into the main body of the essay such as “Analysons maintenant”. Many of the structures and vocab used in an introduction can be used for the majority of question types so it’s worth learning a basic format as revision.The main paragraphs should each start with a different connective or structure that signposts the direction of your essay. Try to include a little of your own opinion, carefully supported by the text. You will be rewarded for more complex structures and grammar so be confident in using a select number of phrases that use the subjunctive - “Autant que je puisse en juger” – or the conditional perfect – “Je n’aurais jamais dit”. It’s crucial to keep linking back to the question and if it asks for a debate, try to weigh the argument up equally. Signal the conclusion clearly and provide a brief overview of the key points but do eventually settle on a clear answer. Remember that in literature and film, your opinion can never be wrong as long as you have supported it with the text at hand!