English

Gavin Cowzer is regarded as a leading English teacher in this country. Having developed a passion for this subject, including obtaining a Master’s degree, Gavin’s teaching style is focused on covering the syllabus in a concise way, so that students have the tools to successfully manage the likely exam questions. His experience correcting exams gives his students an edge in a subject which is often assumed to be an art. However, it is clear that there is a strict science behind doing well in the Leaving Certificate English exam and Gavin’s students will be guided by this little-known fact. He has also been an expert contributor on Leaving Cert English for RTÉ Radio.

JP Sweetman has 15 years experience teaching English at the highest level. He also works as an Examiner for the State Exams Commission (SEC) specialising in Leaving Certificate English. His continued work with the SEC means he can provide the most relevant notes and guidance to students on current exam trends, exam management, tips and preparation. JP has written and published work with The Educational Company of Ireland. His passion for English is evident through classes that are enjoyable and rewarding.

Session 1: Paper 1 Introduction and Categories of Language

Session 2: Persuasive and Language of Argument

Session 3: Narrative and Aesthetic Language

Session 4: Question A

Session 5: Question A

Session 6: Question B

Session 7: Introduction to Poetry and Unseen Poetry

Session 8: Unseen Poetry

Session 9: Studied Poetry

Session 10: Studied Poetry

Session 11: Studied Poetry

Session 12: Studied Poetry

Session 13: Studied Poetry

Session 14: Studied Poetry

Session 15: Shakespeare

Session 16: Shakespeare

Session 17: Introduction to the Comparative

Session 18: Comparative Continued

Session 19: Paper 1 Composition

Session 20: Composition

Session 21: Studied Poetry

Session 22: Studied Poetry

Session 23: Studied Poetry

Session 24: Studied Poetry

Session 25: Studied Poetry

Session 26: Studied Poetry

Session 27: Exam Prep and Paper Layout final predictions

Session 28: Exam Prep and Paper Layout final predictions

Session 29: Exam Prep and Paper Layout final predictions

Our Leaving Cert English teacher Gavin will cover all aspects of the syllabus that students need to be aware of to achieve their full potential. The skills and knowledge required for Paper 1 are taught in a way that minimizes anxiety for students. The vocabulary required to achieve the H1 grade is taught in a way that makes students comfortable users of the language. As well as preparing students to answer the probable questions in the comprehension section, the composition (worth 25% of the entire grade) is extensively prepared.

By providing notes on all the poets on the course, all students are catered for. However, we focus on the poets we expect to see on paper during the grinds. Shakespeare is prepared by focusing on question types and looking at what the syllabus and marking scheme requires of students. The comparative study is covered in depth with classes taught on all of the modes of comparison. Notes are provided on all the major texts, and students will receive notes to differentiate their answers from other students on at least two of their three texts.