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Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan - Cultural Context
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Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan - Cultural Context

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This resource provides an in-depth exploration of the Cultural Context in Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan, tailored for the Comparative Study in the 2026 Leaving Certificate. It is designed to facilitate comparisons with Barbie and Sive and includes prompts for personal reflection, fostering critical thinking and engagement with the texts. What’s Included: Cultural Context Framework Clear headings to explore key aspects of cultural context, including: Social Class and Status Gender Roles Authority Figures Religion and Morality Community and Isolation Economic Pressures Ending and Resolution Guiding questions for each aspect, helping students identify and analyse how these themes are presented in Small Things Like These. Comparative Focus Prompts to compare Small Things Like These with Barbie and Sive. Thoughtful questions that encourage students to examine similarities and differences in cultural context across the three texts. Personal Reflection Prompts Space for students to connect their personal insights with the themes, promoting deeper understanding of cultural and social issues. Detailed and Structured Layout A systematic approach to help students break down complex ideas. Focused questions to encourage engagement with the text and support preparation for essay writing. Cultural Context in Small Things Like These Dedicated sections with guiding questions for each key theme, helping students explore the nuances of the text: Treatment of characters based on social standing. Gender expectations and limitations. The influence of authority figures and power dynamics. The role of religion and morality. Community support and isolation. The impact of economic pressures on characters’ lives. How the ending ties cultural context to the broader story. This teaching resource equips students with a structured approach to understanding and analysing cultural context in Small Things Like These while enabling meaningful comparisons with other texts. It supports both Higher Level and Ordinary Level study, ensuring accessibility for all learners.
Sive by John B Keane - Cultural Context
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Sive by John B Keane - Cultural Context

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This resource is a set of reflection prompts and comparative questions designed for students studying Sive by John B. Keane in the context of cultural themes. It is structured to encourage students to draw connections between Sive, Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan, and the 2023 Barbie movie. The questions focus on key aspects of cultural context such as social class, gender roles, authority figures, religion, morality, community, isolation, economic pressures, and the endings of the stories. The resource is structured as follows: Social Class and Status: Prompts explore how characters in each text are treated based on their social standing, and how poverty or wealth influences their lives and decisions. It encourages students to compare the class divides in Sive, Small Things Like These, and Barbie. Gender Roles: Questions guide students to reflect on the gender expectations and limitations placed on characters. They are asked to compare how gender roles are portrayed in the three texts and consider the impact of these roles on characters’ experiences. Authority Figures: This section focuses on how authority figures influence the characters. Prompts explore power dynamics and their effects, comparing how authority is handled in Sive, Small Things Like These, and Barbie. Religion and Morality: Prompts ask students to reflect on the role of religion and moral judgement in the characters’ lives and decisions. They compare how societal expectations shape moral choices in all three texts. Community and Isolation: Questions focus on the sense of community and isolation experienced by characters, and how the community supports or fails them. Students are encouraged to think about how community is portrayed in the texts and reflect on their own experiences of support networks. Economic Pressures: This section asks how economic struggles shape characters’ decisions and lives. Students are prompted to compare how poverty and financial constraints are portrayed in Sive, Small Things Like These, and Barbie. Ending and Resolution: Students reflect on how the endings of each text relate to the cultural context and whether the characters achieve resolution or remain constrained by societal pressures. They are asked to think about how the conclusions highlight key cultural themes. Personal Reflection: Each section ends with personal reflection questions, encouraging students to connect the themes of the texts to their own lives and experiences. This resource is designed to help students understand the cultural context of the texts, engage with key themes, and develop critical thinking skills by comparing and contrasting different literary works.
Barbie - Greta Gerwig - Cultural Context
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Barbie - Greta Gerwig - Cultural Context

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This resource is designed to guide students through the comparative study of Barbie (directed by Greta Gerwig), Small Things Like These (by Claire Keegan), and Sive (by John B. Keane) as part of the 2026 curriculum. Rather than providing pre-written notes, this resource focuses on questions and prompts to help students develop their own observations and reflections on the cultural context of the texts. Contents Aspect of Cultural Context: Includes key themes such as social class and status, gender roles, authority figures, religion and morality, community and isolation, economic pressures, and the ending and resolution. Comparative Analysis: Thought-provoking questions encourage students to compare Barbie with Small Things Like These and Sive, highlighting connections and contrasts across the texts. Personal Reflection Prompts: Reflective questions prompt students to connect the themes of the texts to their own lives, experiences, and observations of society. Focused Analysis of Barbie: Each cultural aspect is explored in detail for Barbie, encouraging students to critically examine its portrayal of privilege, gender dynamics, authority, moral judgement, community, economic challenges, and thematic resolution. Learning Objectives: Enable students to create their own notes and insights based on guided prompts and questions. Develop a deeper understanding of how cultural context shapes characters, themes, and narratives. Encourage critical thinking, personal reflection, and independent analysis in preparation for comparative essay writing. This resource empowers students to engage actively with the texts, fostering independence in note-making and a personalised approach to understanding the cultural contexts of Barbie, Small Things Like These, and Sive. It’s particularly suited for students preparing for the Leaving Certificate English exam.
The Crucible - Modern day adaptation task
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The Crucible - Modern day adaptation task

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This resource is a comprehensive project guide designed to help students adapt Arthur Miller’s The Crucible into a modern-day short film. It provides a structured approach to understanding and reimagining the play while exploring its timeless themes of fear, power, reputation, and social hysteria in a contemporary context. Below is an overview of the resource’s key components: Purpose and Goals The project challenges students to creatively reinterpret The Crucible in a modern-day setting, making connections to current societal issues such as social media, misinformation, and cancel culture. It encourages critical thinking about the relevance of the play’s themes in today’s world. Step-by-Step Guidance The resource breaks the project into clear, manageable steps: Understanding the Source Material: Students analyse the play’s plot, characters, and themes. Brainstorming a Modern-Day Setting: Encourages students to consider contemporary contexts where hysteria and fear are prevalent. Story Development: Guides students in modernising the characters, setting, and plot while preserving the essence of the original story. Scriptwriting: Offers tips on concise storytelling, modern dialogue, and symbolic representation of themes. Filming and Editing: Provides practical advice on planning, directing, and editing a short film, with attention to emotional intensity and technical quality. 3. Prompts for Creativity Prompts are included to spark ideas and deepen the adaptation process. These focus on: Setting: Identifying relevant modern contexts. Characters: Reimagining The Crucible’s characters for today’s world. Conflict: Exploring misunderstandings and how fear or misinformation spreads. Themes: Addressing issues like mass hysteria and the tension between morality, truth, and reputation. Climax and Resolution: Planning the emotional peak and conclusion of the story. 4. Evaluation Criteria The resource outlines specific criteria for assessing the final film, focusing on creativity, thematic clarity, acting, direction, technical quality, and overall impact. Educational Value This project fosters: Critical Analysis: Deepens understanding of The Crucible and its themes. Creativity and Collaboration: Encourages teamwork in writing, acting, and filmmaking. Media Literacy: Helps students engage with contemporary forms of communication and storytelling. Practical Skills: Develops skills in scriptwriting, directing, acting, and film editing. Conclusion This resource is an excellent tool for engaging students with The Crucible in a way that feels relevant and impactful. By connecting the play to modern issues, it makes its themes accessible while teaching valuable academic and creative skills.
Pre-reading - Salem Witch Trials Web-Quest
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Pre-reading - Salem Witch Trials Web-Quest

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Resource Description: Explore History with a Modern Twist – The Salem Witch Trials Web Quest! Step back in time and immerse yourself in the enigmatic era of the Salem Witch Trials through this engaging and interactive web quest. Designed for today’s tech-savvy students, this resource allows them to use their smartphones as powerful tools for historical exploration. Key Features: Mobile-Friendly: This web quest is specifically designed for smartphones, making it accessible and engaging for today’s students who are always on the go. Solo or Teamwork: Students can choose to embark on this journey individually or collaborate with a partner, fostering both independence and teamwork skills. In-Depth Exploration: Through a series of thought-provoking questions and challenges, students will delve deep into the history, context, and intricacies of the Salem Witch Trials. Historical Context: Gain insights into the social, cultural, and religious factors that contributed to the witch trials of the late 1600s. Interactive Challenges: Interactive elements and multimedia resources provide an immersive learning experience that goes beyond traditional textbooks. Critical Thinking: Encourage critical thinking and analysis as students work their way through a series of inquiries and puzzles. Flexible Learning: Ideal for in-class use, homework assignments, or as an extra credit opportunity, allowing for flexible integration into your curriculum. By using their smartphones as research tools, students will not only expand their knowledge of history but also enhance their digital literacy skills. Unlock the mysteries of the Salem Witch Trials in a way that resonates with today’s tech-savvy generation. Embrace the power of modern technology to make history come alive!
Once - Graphic Organiser
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Once - Graphic Organiser

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Introducing the perfect companion for your classroom as you delve into Morris Gleitzman’s heartwarming novel, “Once” – our one-page graphic organiser! Designed with the needs of both students and educators in mind, this A3 chart is a fantastic addition to any English teacher’s toolkit. This meticulously crafted graphic organiser offers a unique, chapter-by-chapter breakdown of the novel. With dedicated boxes for each chapter and key characters, it allows students to comprehensively document the journey of Felix, the young protagonist, as he navigates a world filled with challenges, hope, and resilience. But what sets our graphic organiser apart is the inclusion of captivating images and symbols that are directly related to the novel. These visual cues not only enhance comprehension but also make the learning experience more engaging and memorable. Picture this: as you guide your students through “Once,” they’ll be able to visually connect with the story’s themes and characters right there on your classroom wall. It’s a powerful tool for sparking discussion, enhancing critical thinking, and encouraging a deeper understanding of the narrative. As an English teacher, you know the value of well-organised teaching aids, and this graphic organiser is your key to making “Once” come alive in your classroom. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enrich your students’ literary journey with this visually captivating resource. Order it today and let Felix’s unforgettable story unfold right before your students’ eyes!
The Outsiders - Graphic Oraniser
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The Outsiders - Graphic Oraniser

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Introducing the ideal companion for your classroom when exploring “The Outsiders” - our one-page graphic organiser! This meticulously crafted A3 chart is designed with both students and teachers in mind, catering to the needs of educators like you who are passionate about teaching English. This comprehensive graphic organiser is a valuable tool for dissecting S.E. Hinton’s classic novel. It’s ingeniously structured, with a dedicated box for each chapter, enabling students to record key events, character developments, and central themes as they read. What sets it apart is its adaptability, offering three flexible boxes for teachers to customise – whether for novel feedback, concise reviews, or memorable quotes from the text. But that’s not all; we’ve incorporated captivating images and symbols related to ‘The Outsiders’ into the design, enhancing visual engagement and aiding memory retention. Hang it proudly on your classroom wall, turning it into an attractive and informative centerpiece for your students. As an English teacher, you understand the value of visual aids and organised note-taking, and this graphic organiser is your perfect ally in the teaching journey. It will guide your students through the novel’s intricate narrative, making their learning experience not only more engaging but also more effective. So why wait? Elevate your “The Outsiders” lessons with this indispensable tool today.
Unlocking Literary Magic: 13 Essential Literary Terms
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Unlocking Literary Magic: 13 Essential Literary Terms

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Dive into the enchanting world of literature with our colorful and engaging resource designed for students in Junior Cycle through Ordinary Leaving Certificate English. “Unlocking Literary Magic” is your key to understanding and mastering 13 essential literary terms that will transform your reading and writing skills. What’s Inside: Alliteration: Discover the power of sound in literature. Alliteration occurs when words with the same initial consonant sounds are used close together, like “Sally sells seashells by the seashore.” Assonance: Explore the musical side of words. Assonance is the repetition of vowel sounds in nearby words, such as “fleet feet sweep by sleeping geese.” Hyperbole: Experience the exaggeration. Hyperbole uses extravagant language to emphasize a point, like “I’m so hungry I could eat a horse!” Metaphor: Uncover hidden meanings. A metaphor compares two unlike things without using “like” or “as,” e.g., “Her smile is a ray of sunshine.” Onomatopoeia: Hear the words come alive. Onomatopoeia imitates sounds, like “buzz,” “meow,” or “boom.” Personification: Breathe life into objects. Personification gives human characteristics to non-human things, such as “The wind whispered through the trees.” Sibilance: Savor the sound of hissing. Sibilance is the repetition of hissing “s” and “sh” sounds, creating a serene or sinister atmosphere. Rhyme: Dance to the rhythm of words. Rhyme is the repetition of similar sounds in words, like “cat” and “hat.” Rhetorical Questions: Engage your readers. Rhetorical questions are asked for effect or to provoke thought, not necessarily to receive an answer, such as “Who doesn’t love a good story?” Imagery: Paint pictures with words. Imagery uses vivid descriptions to appeal to the senses, like “The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the air.” Simile: Make comparisons sparkle. A simile compares two things using “like” or “as,” such as “Brave as a lion.” Repetition: Emphasize, emphasize, emphasize. Repetition involves repeating words or phrases for impact, like “Never, never, never give up” (Winston Churchill). Symbolism: Decipher hidden meanings. Symbolism is the use of symbols or objects to represent deeper ideas, like a dove representing peace. Why You’ll Love It: Colorful and visually appealing. Concise definitions and clear examples. Helpful for essays, exams, and creative writing. Enhance your literary analysis skills.
Opinion Piece Writing Resource – Higher Level English
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Opinion Piece Writing Resource – Higher Level English

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This complete resource pack supports Higher Level Leaving Certificate students in writing high-quality opinion pieces. It includes: A clear explanation of the genre and purpose of opinion writing A planning and structure guide Annotated sample answer on online news and misinformation A second strong model on Kilmainham Gaol for analysis A weaker sample response for comparison and improvement tasks A writing frame for scaffolding student work Tables identifying techniques used (persuasive, figurative, and structural) A teacher’s correction key for classroom use or marking Ideal for Paper 1, Question B preparation. Encourages critical thinking, effective argument development, and strong language control.
The Outsiders – Key Themes, Characters & Moments (OL Junior Cycle Revision)
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The Outsiders – Key Themes, Characters & Moments (OL Junior Cycle Revision)

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This accessible revision guide is designed for Junior Cycle students studying The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton. It includes: Simple notes on key themes (e.g. injustice, family, outsider identity) Clear profiles of main characters with quotes A breakdown of 13 key moments from the novel, chapter by chapter Perfect for lower-ability learners or whole-class revision. Easy to print and student-friendly!
Of Mice and Men – Key Themes, Characters, Moments & Relationships (Junior Cycle Revision)
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Of Mice and Men – Key Themes, Characters, Moments & Relationships (Junior Cycle Revision)

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This student-friendly revision booklet is designed for Junior Cycle English students studying Of Mice and Men. It includes: Key themes (e.g. loneliness, dreams, prejudice) Main character profiles with quotes Important moments explained simply Key relationships broken down with examples and quotes Ideal for lower ability learners, end-of-term revision, or quick classroom recap. Clear layout and accessible language.
Letter Writing for Question B – Formal & Informal Samples (Leaving Cert)
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Letter Writing for Question B – Formal & Informal Samples (Leaving Cert)

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A complete, student-friendly guide to letter writing for Leaving Certificate English Paper 1 (Question B). This resource is perfect for both Ordinary and Higher Level students and includes: Key differences between formal and informal letters Clear structure guide (address, greeting, layout, sign-off) Language and tone tips with useful opening/closing phrases Formal letter sample: protecting green spaces Informal letter sample: school trip with humour and storytelling Handy writing checklist for exam preparation Designed to help students develop strong functional writing skills while keeping personality and voice. Perfect for classroom revision or independent practice.
How to write a blog post
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How to write a blog post

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A student-friendly guide to writing blog posts, perfect for Leaving Certificate English (5th/6th Year). This resource includes clear, accessible notes on blog structure, language tips, and common topics. It also features a sample blog post fully annotated with writing techniques, and a follow-up task where students apply these techniques to a second sample. Ideal for revision or classroom use, especially for Paper 1 composition practice.
Gerard Manley Hopkins – One-Page Per Poem - HL Study Aid (2025)
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Gerard Manley Hopkins – One-Page Per Poem - HL Study Aid (2025)

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Each guide includes: Summary: A concise overview of the poem’s content. Key Lines: Essential quotations for analysis and essays. Themes: Central ideas explored in the poem. Tone: The mood and atmosphere conveyed. Personal Response: Reflective commentary to encourage critical engagement. Language: Analysis of stylistic features, imagery, and form. My Notes: Space for students to jot down personal insights and observations. Poems Covered: God’s Grandeur Spring As Kingfishers Catch Fire, Dragonflies Draw Flame The Windhover Pied Beauty Felix Randal Inversnaid I Wake and Feel the Fell of Dark, Not Day
Patrick Kavanagh's One page per poem (2025)
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Patrick Kavanagh's One page per poem (2025)

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Each guide includes: Summary: A concise overview of the poem’s content. Key Lines: Essential quotations for analysis and essays. Themes: Central ideas explored in the poem. Tone: The mood and atmosphere conveyed. Personal Response: Reflective commentary to encourage critical engagement. Language: Analysis of stylistic features, imagery, and form. *My Notes: Space for students to jot down personal insights and observations. Poems Covered: Inniskeen Road: July Evening Shancoduff From The Great Hunger: Section I Advent A Christmas Childhood Epic Canal Bank Walk Lines Written on a Seat on the Grand Canal The Hospital On Raglan Road
Tracy K. Smith  One-Page Per Poem - HL Study Aid (2025)
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Tracy K. Smith One-Page Per Poem - HL Study Aid (2025)

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What’s Included: Notes for all three prescribed poems, with strong emphasis on personal response and historical context. Accessible language for discussing trauma, memory, and cultural critique. Poems Covered: It’s Not The Greatest Personal Privation The Searchers Letter to a Photojournalist Going In The Museum of Obsolescence The Universe as Primal Scream Don’t you Wonder, Sometimes?
Eavan Boland : One-Page Per Poem - HL Study Aid (2025)
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Eavan Boland : One-Page Per Poem - HL Study Aid (2025)

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Each guide includes: Summary: A concise overview of the poem’s content. Key Lines: Essential quotations for analysis and essays. Themes: Central ideas explored in the poem. Tone: The mood and atmosphere conveyed. Personal Response: Reflective commentary to encourage critical engagement. Language: Analysis of stylistic features, imagery, and form. My Notes: Space for students to jot down personal insights and observations. Poems Covered: The War Horse Child of Our Time The Famine Road The Shadow Doll Outside History The Black Lace Fan My Mother Gave Me This Moment The Pomegranate Love
Derek Mahon HL Poetry Revision - One Pagers (2025)
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Derek Mahon HL Poetry Revision - One Pagers (2025)

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Each guide includes: Summary: A concise overview of the poem’s content. Key Lines: Essential quotations for analysis and essays. Themes: Central ideas explored in the poem. Tone: The mood and atmosphere conveyed. Personal Response: Reflective commentary to encourage critical engagement. Language: Analysis of stylistic features, imagery, and form. My Notes: Space for students to jot down personal insights and observations. Poems Covered: Grandfather Day Trip to Donegal Ecclesiastes After the Titanic As It Should Be A Disused Shed in Co. Wexford Rathlin The Chinese Restaurant in Portrush Kinsale Antarctica
Sylvia Plath -  One-Page Per Poem - HL Study Aid (2025)
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Sylvia Plath - One-Page Per Poem - HL Study Aid (2025)

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What’s Included: Detailed, student-friendly breakdowns of each poem focusing on emotion, symbolism, and tone. Particularly useful for exploring themes like motherhood, depression, and identity. Poems Covered: Poppies in July Child Black Rook in Rainy Weather The Times Are Tidy Morning Song Finisterre Mirror Pheasant Elm The Arrival of the Bee Box