Your essay should:

• Present a clear, arguable thesis in your introduction
• Use at least three pieces of textual evidence to back up your argument
• Analyse how Syal employs literary techniques such as narrative voice, symbolism, and characterisation to illustrate Meena's path of self-discovery
• Consider counter-arguments (for instance, instances where Meena actively distances herself from her heritage) and address these within your argument
• Conclude by reflecting on the broader significance of Meena's experiences in the context of 1970s multicultural Britain

Assessment Focus

Sustained argument • Close textual analysis • Contextual understanding

Your essay should:

• Present a clear, arguable thesis in your introduction
• Use at least three pieces of textual evidence to support your argument
• Analyze how Syal employs literary techniques such as narrative voice, symbolism, and characterization to enhance your claim
• Address a counterargument: consider if Meena's experiences could be interpreted as a journey toward a confident hybrid identity
• Conclude by reflecting on the broader significance of the novel's message regarding race, belonging, and growing up in 1970s Britain

Assessment focus

Sustained argument | Close textual analysis | Contextual understanding