Question 1: Identify two poetic techniques used in this extract and explain their effects.

Answer: Possible techniques include imagery (to evoke visual and emotional response) and metaphor (comparing tissue to life and memory).

Question 2: What does the tissue symbolise in the poem? Support your answer with a quote.

Answer: It symbolises human life, memory, and history, as suggested by phrases like 'fragile yet resilient' and 'layers of life'.

Question 3: How does the poet contrast fragility and strength in the extract? Provide examples from the poem.

Answer: The poet describes tissue as 'fragile, easily torn,' yet also as something that 'holds stories, memories, and histories,' indicating a contrast between its delicacy and its capacity to contain profound significance.

Question 4: Analyse the use of light and transparency in the poem. How do they contribute to its themes?

Answer: Light and transparency are used metaphorically to suggest clarity, vulnerability, and the idea that even delicate things can reveal deep truths. They reinforce themes of fragility and resilience.

Question 5: What is the significance of the comparison between tissue and maps or blueprints?

Answer: It signifies that tissue, like maps or blueprints, contains plans, stories, and histories—elements that guide or reveal aspects of identity and culture.

Question 6: Identify and explain one example of alliteration or another sound device in the extract.

Answer: Possible example: 'fragile, easily torn' – the repetition of the 't' sound emphasises the delicate nature of tissue.

Question 7: Discuss how the structure of the poem (stanzas and line breaks) affects its meaning.

Answer: The poem’s free verse and varied line lengths reflect the organic, unpredictable nature of tissue and life, allowing the poet to emphasise different ideas and images smoothly.

Question 8: Create a brief paragraph analysing the poet’s use of imagery in the poem. Consider how it enhances the themes.

Answer: The poet employs vivid imagery such as 'light shine through' and 'layers of life' to create a sense of transparency and depth. This imagery underscores themes of vulnerability, resilience, and the importance of memory.

Question 9: Optional Creative Prompt: Write a short poem or paragraph inspired by the themes of 'Tissue'. Use imagery and metaphor to explore fragility and strength.

Answer: Student responses will vary. Encourage use of poetic devices such as metaphor, imagery, and symbolism.

Question 10: In your opinion, what is the central message of 'Tissue'? Support your view with references to the extract.

Answer: The central message is that fragility and strength coexist; even seemingly delicate things can hold profound significance, reflecting human resilience and the importance of memory.