Leaving Certificate English: The Comparative Oral: A Complete Student's Guide

By Aidan Smyth

The Comparative Oral is a new component of the Leaving Certificate English examination, introduced under the curriculum specification taking effect from September 2027. The first students to be assessed under this specification will sit their Leaving Certificate in June 2029. This book is designed for that cohort and all those that follow.

Worth 20% of the overall Leaving Certificate English grade, the Comparative Oral requires students to compare two or more prescribed texts through one of six comparative modes and to defend their comparative argument in a live discussion with an examiner. It rewards two years of genuine engagement with literature - and this guide shows you exactly how to prepare.

Covering both Higher Level and Ordinary Level, this guide addresses all six comparative modes: Theme or Issue, Cultural Context and General Vision and Viewpoint at Higher Level, and Theme, Social Setting and Relationships at Ordinary Level.

Features

All six comparative modes explained in depth - Higher and Ordinary LevelFive fully annotated model orals across different text pairings and modesAnnotated presentation and discussion transcripts showing technique in actionCriterion-by-criterion commentary against the official assessment descriptorsNine preparation worksheets including a final oral readiness checklistGlossary of key terms and full index cross-referenced to chapter and sectionClear guidance on copyright, prescribed text selection and examination requirements

Whether you are approaching the Comparative Oral for the first time or consolidating your preparation in the weeks before assessment, this guide provides everything you need.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0H66C44XF
• ISBN13: 9798182457521
• Release Date: June 2026
• Publisher: Independently Published
• Length: 172 Pages
• Weight: 0.68 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 7.0" x 10.0"