When it comes to English Exams I often find that, students tend to struggle with figuring the best way to effectively integrate textual evidence and analysis into their writing when it comes to long answer responses on specific syllabus texts. However, an effective solution, that I have found to this challenge is TEE tables, a valuable tool for students in exam preparation from year 7-12.
TEE tables break down the elements of a text into Technique, Evidence, and Effect, where, students are encouraged to engage deeply with their reading material, resulting in more sophisticated and structured analysis.
How to Use TEE Tables Effectively
1. Technique: In the first column, students identify a literary technique used in the text. This might include metaphors, imagery, symbolism, repetition, tone, or any other device the author employs. By explicitly naming the technique, students develop a clear focus for their analysis and set the stage for their evidence.
2. Evidence: In the second column, students select a relevant quote, excerpt, or example from the text that showcases the identified technique. This step is critical, as it ensures students are actively engaging with the material and finding specific moments that support their interpretation.
3.Effect: In the final column, students explain the impact of the technique and how it contributes to the meaning of the text. This is where students articulate their understanding of the text’s deeper themes and ideas. They should aim to discuss how the technique influences the reader’s perception or emphasises certain themes or character traits. For example, a metaphor might highlight a character’s internal struggle or reinforce the setting’s mood.
Incorporating TEE Tables into Essays and Exam Responses
By practicing with TEE tables, students can develop a strong foundation for integrating textual evidence in their essays. When they move on to writing, they can categorise tables by themes in the texts and hence, use the table as a guide to structure their paragraphs. Each paragraph might focus on one theme of the text and incorporate three examples from the relevant TEE table, providing the quote and analysis needed to build a compelling argument. This method ensures their responses remain organised and
Bianca Douroudis
