This is worth 80 marks. You learn 20, and 1 comes up on the day.

Don't forget, at the end, the examiner will ask you three questions, and then you have to ask them three.

https://quizlet.com/ie/973847985/caitlin-maude-flash-cards/

Rugadh Caitlín Maude i Ros Muc i gConamara sa bhliain 1941.
Caitlín Maude was born in Ros Muc in Conamara in the year 1941.

Múinteoir scoile a bhí inti chomh maith le ceoltóir, aisteoir agus file.
She was a school teacher as well as a musician, actor and poet.

Scríobh sí an dán ‘Géibheann’
She wrote the poem ‘Géibheann’

Fuair sí bás le hailse ar an 6 Meitheamh 1982.
She died of cancer on the 6th of June 1982.

https://quizlet.com/ie/596956133/padraig-mac-suibhne-flash-cards/

Múinteoir, aisteoir agus file Gaeilge ab ea Pádraig Mac Suibhne (a rugadh sa bhliain 1942).Rugadh agus tógadh é in Ard an Rátha, Contae Dhún na nGall. Fuair sé bás sa bhliain 2020

Is é a chum an dán "Colscaradh." Tagann an dán seo ón gcnuasach Solas Uaigneach. Chum an file an dán seo tar éis dó an brón agus an briseadh croí a bhain le scarúint tuismitheoirí a fheiceáil agus é ag múineadh daltaí scoile

Pádraig Mac Suibhne was an Irish teacher, actor, and poet (born in 1942). He was born and raised in Ardara, County Donegal. He died in 2020.

He composed the poem Colscaradh, which comes from the poetry collection Solas Uaigneach. The poet wrote this poem after witnessing the sadness and heartbreak associated with the separation of parents while teaching schoolchildren

By Pádraig Mac Suibhne

He wanted a life with his wife,

In the house where he grew up,

By the fire, with love,

And children to nurture.

She wanted a life with her husband,

But far from the hearth,

With freedom to explore,

And wealth to enjoy.

They met in the middle,

But their desires were too different.

They parted ways,

Each returning to their own path.

Idir mná agus fir (between men and women)

Colscaradh (divorce)

Saol nua-aimseartha (modern life)

Saol traidisiúnta (traditional life)

Caidreamh (relationship)

Theip ar an bpósadh (the marriage failed)

Coimhlint (conflict) 

Mianta difrúla (different wishes)

Léargas (insight)

Níl siad oiriúnach dá chéile (they are not suited for each other)

Ba mhaith leis/ léi (he wants/she wants)

Teaghlach/clann (family)

Dhá thuiscint dhifrúla ar an bpósadh (two different understandings of marriage)

Cumhachtach powerful

An tábhacht a bhaineann le saoirse The importance of freedom

Saol duine Person’s life

An dochar The damage

Easpa saoirse Lack of freedom

Spiorad agus dínit an duine The spirit and dignity of a person

Dán meafarach Metaphorical poem

Seasann ______ do This___stands for

Duine ar bith anyone

Ag streachailt struggling

Ín ísle brí In low spirits

Samhlaíonn an file The poet imagines

Two choices of answers, easy and difficult.

• Themes

• Emotions

• What your opinion of the poem is

Nuair a éiríonn Catherine bréan de bheith ag fulaingt le cur isteach leanúnach Phóil, tosaíonn sí á tharraingt agus á chur amú. Foghlaimíonn sí go mbíonn sé gearr anála nuair a bhíonn mearbhall air. Faoi dheireadh, deir sí leis go bhfuil péist i bpíosa den chístí milis atá á ithe aige. Nuair a deir sí é seo, tagann scaoll air agus tosaíonn sé ag fulaingt ó ionsaí plúchadh. Déanann sé iarracht a ionanálaitheoir a aimsiú ar an mbord, ach go ciúin tógann Catherine é agus cuireann sí i bhfolach é ó Phól. De réir mar atá sé ag fáil bháis, cuireann sí an t-innealán ar ais ar an mbord ach díreach lasmuigh dá raon. Titeann Pól ina shuí agus é ag fáil bháis agus fágann Catherine an traein.

• Seánra: Gearrscannán
  Stiúrthóir: Jennifer Keegan
  Scríbhneoir: Brian Lynch
  Le páirteanna: Brendan Gleeson agus Charlotte Bradley
  Am Rith: 18 nóiméad
  Teanga: Gaeilge
  Dáta Eisiúna: 2001

An exhausted businesswoman named Catherine is sitting on a train reading a romantic novel. It is established that this is the only time in the day where she has time for herself, as she is otherwise caring for her ageing mother. A blind man with asthma called Pól sits across from her. He proceeds to annoy her and prevent her from reading her book in peace by making loud noises, asking peculiar questions and telling inane stories. When Catherine gets sick of Pól constantly annoying her, she begins to taunt and confuse him. She learns that he becomes short of breath when he is confused. Eventually, she tells him that a piece of the sweet cake that he is eating has a worm in it. When she tells him this he panics and begins to suffer from an asthma attack. He attempts to find his inhaler on the table, but Catherine quietly takes it and hides it from Pól. As he suffocates, she places the inhaler back down on the table just out of his reach. Pól slumps over in his seat as Catherine disembarks from the train.

• Genre: Short Film

• Director: Jennifer Keegan

• Writer: Brian Lynch

• Starring: Brendan Gleeson and Charlotte Bradley

• Running Time: 18 minutes

• Language: Irish

• Release Date: 2001

Tá sí ag éalú ón saol lena leabhar grá.

Tá sí míshona lena saol.

Tugann sí aire dá máthair atá sean.

Ní léiríonn sí trua ar bith do Phaul.

childish

Cúramóir

a carer

Analóir

an inhaler

Ag éalú

escaping

Dall

blind

Ciontach

awkward

Cainteach

chatty

Gan stad gan staonadh

non-st­op/­end­lessly

Asma

asthma

Saonta

innocent

Ag brath

depending

Bréag

lie

Taom asma

asthma attack

Ag prislí­neach

dribbling

Samhnas

disgust

Péist

worm

Ag fulaingt

suffering

Tá áthas air.

Tá sé ag caint le Catherine gan stad gan staonadh faoina asma.

Tá muinín aige as daoine.

Creideann sé gach rud a deir daoine.

Tá sé bródúil as na rudaí beaga a dhéanann sé sa saol.

• Characters

• Themes

• Cinematography

This is worth 80 marks. You learn 20, and 1 comes up on the day.

Don't forget, at the end, the examiner will ask you three questions, and then you have to ask them three.

Sraith number 19

Link to more detailed summary:

https://www.irishtimes.com/news/education/a-step-by-step-guide-to-ordinary-level-irish-1.287850

(i) Bealtriail: The Oral exam is 240 marks (40%)

(ii) The Aural/listening exam is 60 marks (10%)

(iii) There are two written papers

P1: 100 marks/ P2: 200 marks (50%)

Paper one – 100 marks
A Written Composition Section with a choice out of the following:
Write a letter, conversation, story or a paragraph. Usually the letter and paragraph options are topics that are prepared also for the Oral exam.

There are also two reading comprehensions, one usually about a famous person and the other about something to do with young people, current affairs etc.

Paper Two - 200 marks
This firstly consists of questions on compulsory prose and poetry. There are four stories and one film/drama on the prose course.

Students are required to know a summary of the story/film and also discuss a theme or character. They must answer two questions and there is a choice between two in each case.

The poems are printed on the paper. Students must answer three questions on the poems. The questions are generally about a theme, a feeling, an explanation of a line or did you enjoy the poem, etc.

Sraith number `5

More complex sentences with accompanying questions

Sraith number 5

Simple clear language with the minimum 4 lines per picture

A more fun way to revise

'Hard work: good results in your Leaving Certificate'

Two sample scripts, one simple and one more complex

February
Mí Feabhra

March
Mí Márta

April
Mí Aibreán

May
Mí Bealtaine

June
Mí Meitheamh

July
Mí Iúil

August
Mí Lúnasa

September
Mí Meán Fomhair

October
Mí Deireadh Fomhair

November
Mí na Samhna

December
Mí na Nollag

https://quizlet.com/ie/596763596/nuala-ni-dhomhnaill-flash-cards/

Rugadh Nuala Ní Dhomhnaill i Lancashire Shasana sa bhliain 1952. Chuaigh sí chun cónaí lena haintín i gCiarraí ar feadh cúpla bliain nuair a bhí sí cúig bliana déag d'aois. Ba as Corca Dhuibhne dá tuismitheoirí. Bhain sí céim amach sa Ghaeilge agus sa Bhéarla i gColáiste na hOllscoile, Corcaigh. Bhí sí ina bhall de fhilí INNTI agus í ar an Ollscoil. Is ball d'Aosdána í.

Foilsíodh cuid mhaith leabhar dá cuid, ina measc An Dealg Draighin (1981), Féar Suaithinseach (1984), Pharaoh's Daughter (1990) agus Cead Aighnis (1999).

Nuala Ní Dhomhnaill was born in Lancashire, England in 1952. She came to live with her aunt in Kerry for a few years when she was fifteen. Her parents were from Cork. She graduated in Irish and English from University College Cork. She was a member of the INNTI poets while at the university. She is a member of Aosdána. 

She has published many books, including An Dealg Draighin (1981), Féar Suaithinseach (1984), Pharaoh’s Daughter (1990) and Cead Aighnis (1999).

My own love --
he's no sloe-blossom
in a garden
(nor on any tree)

and if he's anything to do
with daisies
it's from his ears they'll grow
(when he's eight feet under)

His eyes do not shine
like a mountain stream
(they're much too close-set
to make him a Hollywood dream)

and if silk is smooth
the hairs of his head
(like Shakespeare's Dark Lady)
are thorny wire.

But it doesn't matter.
He gives me
apples
(and when he's in a good humour
he gives me grapes).

"Mo Ghrá-sa" is a term of endearment in the Irish language that translates to "my love" in English. It is typically used to express affection and love towards someone, whether it be a significant other, a family member, or a close friend.

The phrase "Mo Ghrá" translates to "my love" while the addition of "sa" at the end of the phrase personalizes it to a specific person. It is often used in Ireland as a pet name or term of endearment between couples.

2. How to use "Mo Ghrá-sa" in a conversation

If you're interested in using "Mo Ghrá-sa" in your own conversations, it's important to understand its proper context and meaning. As mentioned earlier, the phrase is typically used to express love and affection towards someone.

When using "Mo Ghrá-sa" to address someone, it's important to remember that it is a term of endearment and should only be used in appropriate contexts. It is not appropriate to use it in a professional or formal setting, for example.

3. What is the Poem Mo Ghrá-sa About?

Mo Ghrá-sa is a poem written in the Irish language by Nuala Ní Dhomhnaill, one of the foremost poets of the Irish language in the 20th century.

The poem is a love letter from the poet to her partner, expressing her deep feelings of affection and devotion. In the poem, Ní Dhomhnaill describes the joy and fulfillment that his love brings to her life, and she reflects on the bond that she shares with her partner and how little she cares about physical imperfections.

4. What Themes Does the Poem Explore?

Mo Ghrá-sa explores a number of themes that are universal and timeless. One of the main themes of the poem is love and relationships. The poet's words convey the depth of her feelings for her partner, and the poem serves as a tribute to the power of love to bring meaning and purpose to our lives.

• Imperfection and Realism in Love: The poem acknowledges the imperfections of the lover, using the metaphor of flowers to reflect the idea that beauty and flaws coexist. Rather than idealizing love or the lover, Ní Dhomhnaill presents a more realistic view of relationships—one that embraces imperfection rather than striving for unattainable ideals.

• Feminine Perspective: The poem also presents a distinctly feminine perspective on love, where the speaker navigates her feelings, desires, and self-awareness within the context of her love. Ní Dhomhnaill often highlights women’s voices and experiences, empowering them in the context of relationships and love.

  
  

Humor is another important theme in Nuala Ní Dhomhnaill's "Mo Ghrá-sa idir Luibíní", and it plays a significant role in how the poem addresses love and relationships. Ní Dhomhnaill uses wit and irony to explore the more playful side of love, creating a balance between affection and light-hearted teasing.

For example:

• Self-awareness and Playfulness: The speaker often describes her lover in a humorous way, comparing him to plants and flowers with playful affection. She doesn't idealize him in the conventional sense but instead embraces his imperfections with a sense of humor. The poem doesn’t take the concept of "perfect" love too seriously but presents a more realistic, fun, and sometimes cheeky portrayal of attraction and connection.

• Subverting Romantic Conventions: The use of humor also subverts traditional romantic poetry, which often idealizes lovers and love itself. Ní Dhomhnaill's tone is light, self-aware, and subtly ironic, as she humorously explores the dynamics of love that don't always fit conventional, idealized depictions of romantic relationships.

• Affectionate Mockery: There’s a sense of affectionate mockery throughout the poem, where the speaker lovingly mocks her lover's imperfections, which humanizes the relationship and makes it feel grounded and relatable. It reflects a more mature and grounded view of love, where humor is a tool to cope with the complexities and imperfections that come with it.

So, humor in this poem provides a layer of accessibility and relatability, making the exploration of love and imperfections feel more light-hearted and less idealized.

Géibheann is a favorite among Irish students as it has a rhythmic flow that allows students to emphasize their pronunciation skills in the oral exam while also having more than enough for students to comment on in the written portion of the assessment.

Given the popularity of Géibheann, it only makes sense that you incorporate sufficient preparation on the various questions that get asked at Leaving Cert level.

Overview of Géibheann

When you are studying the poem either at school or revising your notes at home, make sure to pay close attention to the poem’s background. While it may not specifically get asked in your exam, having knowledge of the poem's context will help you realise the significance of the poetic techniques employed by Caitlín Maude throughout, enhancing the quality of your answers.

On top of that, it also gives you a number of strong points that you can jot down on your answer sheet after you introduce your essay, regardless of what question gets asked.

So, if you are looking to impress the examiner with your answer, provide some background on the poem.

It also won’t take much time from the rest of your answer to mention how the title translates to "captivity" and symbolically delves into her struggle with hospitalization due to cancer.

It also never hurts to give a little bit of a background on the poets themselves so in the interest of showing that you’ve done your homework, you can mention how Caitlín Maude was from Ros Muc, Co. Galway. From there her career flourished in just about anything she tried her hand at, be it poetry, writing, singing, acting, play-writing and as an advocate for the language. 

Thematic Analysis

The themes that feature throughout Geibheann are incredibly strong and emphatic. In fact, the poem is so rich in themes that you can take some reassurance in knowing that if a question does feature in the poem, then it is highly probable that you will be asked to explore them in your answer.

As you study the poem, you’ll explore a weave of themes that strike a chord with the essence of being human which certainly makes for an interesting puzzle to unravel throughout your study.

Maude does an expert job of intertwining concepts that ponder on the essence of liberty, selfhood and cultural legacy.

Captivity and freedom

Given that it is one of the core themes that surface from your very first read of the poem, you might want to keep a number of pages in your notebook exclusively for Captivity and Freedom.

The essence of "Géibheann" delves into the exploration of confinement and the deep desire for liberation. With a little understanding of the context of the poem, it soon becomes apparent that there is a comparison between the poet's existence and that of a creature likely symbolised by a lion. 

So, with the Leaving Cert Irish exam in mind, when you see a question on themes or one that exclusively asks about captivity and freedom, you’ll want to mention this analogy and the quest for freedom and self-determination. 

Nature vs. confinement

The next theme that you’re going to want to pay attention to when you study the poem is the battle that is present between nature and confinement.

When you get around to dissecting the poem alongside your Irish class you’ll likely spend a number of classes talking about how it contrasts the freedom of the world with the constraints of captivity. 

One useful tip that will aid you in your preparation would be to highlight and make note of any quotes that support each of the points that you cover in class so that you are armed to include them in your own essays, giving reference to the text.

By making a series of points about how the poet illustrates the animal's vitality and dominance in its habitat, juxtaposed with its weakened and subdued existence in captivity you’ll be ticking all the boxes in the marking scheme and be in with a good chance of attaining a top grade for your answer!

Poetic Techniques

While themes are certainly a front runner for the questions that you will be tasked with if the poem appears on your Irish exam, it's important that you don’t put all your eggs in one basket. 

Looking at the poem under the lens of poetic techniques will ensure that you are prepared for the other possible questions, while also adding to your overall understanding of the poem.

In "Géibheann," Caitlín Maude skillfully employs techniques to convey her message effectively. For starters, the use of imagery and symbolism is pivotal in shaping the narrative of the poem. 

From the outset, a striking image of a wild animal, majestic and full of vigor, roaming freely in its domain is planted in the reader's mind. However, as the poem progresses, a shift occurs where the animal appears tired and resigned. This change in imagery symbolizes a loss of freedom and reflects the repercussions of captivity.

When looking at the poetic techniques in the poem, you’ll need to include a wide range of examples in order to secure top marks for your answer. So, make sure to jot down a few paragraphs on the language and tone that Maude employs to enhance both the musicality and emotional resonance within the poem. 

Alliteration (Uaim) is another key poetic technique that adds to the quality of the poem, serving to accentuate words while creating an auditory effect that resonates with readers. Given that this is one of the techniques that feature in the Irish curriculum when it comes to poetry analysis, it would certainly be a good idea to include it in your answer.

Another unavoidable example is how she employs personification by having the animal speak directly to the reader. This impactful method triggers feelings of empathy and guilt, shedding light on the observation and captivity experienced by zoo animals.

What is the Theme of the Poem Colscaradh?

The central theme of “Colscaradh” is the breakdown of a marriage due to irreconcilable differences between a man and a woman. The poem highlights how traditional expectations of marriage can clash with modern, individualistic desires.

1. The Man’s Perspective:

   The man in the poem yearns for a traditional life rooted in his home, family, and community. He views marriage as a partnership where the wife shares his values and contributes to a harmonious domestic life.

2. The Woman’s Perspective:

   The woman, on the other hand, seeks independence, personal fulfillment, and equality. She desires a life of freedom and autonomy, which contrasts sharply with the man’s traditional expectations.

3. Conflict and Resolution:

   The couple’s inability to compromise leads to separation, symbolizing the challenges faced by many modern relationships. The poem reflects on how differing values and expectations can lead to emotional and physical distance

   
   

Colscaradh Notes: Key Points for Students

To help you analyze and understand the poem, here are some important Colscaradh notes:

1. Structure and Style:

   • The poem consists of three stanzas with a simple and rhythmic structure.

   • The language is straightforward yet rich in imagery, making it accessible to readers.

2. Symbolism:

   • The fireplace symbolizes tradition, warmth, and family life.

   • The freedom and wealth desired by the woman represent modern values and independence.

3. Tone:

   • The tone is reflective and melancholic, emphasizing the sadness of separation caused by unmet expectations.

4. Themes:

   • Conflict in relationships.

   • Traditional vs. modern values.

   • The importance of compromise in marriage.

5. Cultural Context:

   • The poem reflects the societal changes in Ireland during the 20th century, as traditional roles and values were challenged by modern ideals.

What Did the Woman Want in Colscaradh?

A recurring question about the poem is, “What did the woman want in Colscaradh?” The woman sought freedom, independence, and personal fulfillment. She envisioned a life where she could explore opportunities beyond the confines of a traditional marriage. This desire for autonomy conflicted with the man’s vision of a rooted, family-centered life.

If you’re preparing for exams, here are some Colscaradh sample answers to common questions (of course, they need to be in Irish):

1. What is the theme of the poem “Colscaradh”?

   The theme of the poem is the breakdown of a marriage due to conflicting expectations. The man desires a traditional, family-oriented life, while the woman seeks independence and freedom. Their inability to compromise leads to separation.

2. What does the fireplace symbolize?

   The fireplace symbolizes tradition, warmth, and the comforts of home. It reflects the man’s desire for a stable, rooted life.

3. How does the poet create contrast between the man and the woman?

   The poet creates contrast by presenting their desires in parallel stanzas. The man’s traditional values clash with the woman’s modern aspirations, highlighting their incompatibility.

My mistress' eyes are nothing like the Sun;
Coral is far more red than her lips red;
If snow be white, why then her breasts be dun;
If hairs be wires, black wire grow on her head.
I have seen roses damask'd, red and white,
But no such roses see I in her cheeks,
And in some perfumes there is more delight
Than in the breath that from my mistress reeks.
I love to hear her speak, yet well I know
That music hath a far more pleasing sound;
I grant I never saw a goddess go -
My mistress when she walks treads on the ground.
And yet by heaven I think my love as rare
As any she belied with false compare.

The Gaelic Revival

The legend of Tír na nÓg and The Land of Eternal Youth is one of Ireland’s most ancient tales.

Many years ago, in Éire, there lived a great and noble warrior named Oisín. Oisín was the son of the legendary Fionn Mac Cumhaill, the leader of Fianna and the protectors of the land. As the Fianna were hunting deer on the shores of Lough Leane in County Kerry one morning, a beautiful woman came riding towards them on a snow-white horse. She was the most beautiful girl they had ever seen, with long golden hair down to her waist, dressed in pale blue and surrounded by light.

She rode close to the Fianna and declared “I am Niamh of the Golden Hair and my father is King of Tír na nÓg. I have heard of a great warrior named Oisín. I have to come to find him and ask him to return with me to the Land of the Young.” Accepting Niamh’s invitation, Oisín had immediately fallen in love with this beautiful princess from another land, and waving goodbye to Fionn and the Fianna, he jumped on the snow-white horse with Niamh.

Over the land and the sea the horse ran, reaching the magical shores of Tír na nÓg. The king and queen welcomed Oisín and held a great feast in his honor. It was a magical land where by day Oisín hunted and feasted. At night he sat and told ancient stories of Fionn, the Fianna and Ireland.

The Call of the Emerald Isle

Oisín lived in Tír na nÓg for three hundred years. But soon the longing to return to the Emerald Isle began to overcome his love of the Land of Eternal Youth. Niamh did not want him to go, but she agreed. Warning him that if he were to “set foot on the soil of Ireland, you will never be able to return to Tír na nÓg.”

Oisín reached Ireland to find that everything had changed. To him it felt as though just three short years had passed instead of three hundred. There was no longer the sight of his father or the Fianna hunting through the hills. The castle he once called home had now begun to crumble. As he passed through Gleann na Smol, the Valley of the Thrushes, he saw a group of men trying to move a large stone. Oisín wanted to help, leaning down in his saddle to do so and lift the stone. The saddle strap broke and he fell to the ground. Immediately the magical white and mighty horse galloped away and all of a sudden the great hero Oisín became a withered, old man, ageing before the men’s very eyes.

How The Legend Spread

Legend has it that the men were shocked and immediately brought Oisín to St. Patrick. St. Patrick tried to comfort Oisín. When Oisín learned that the Fianna and his father were long since dead, his heart filled with sadness and despair. Oisín spoke of the days of his life alongside the Fianna and the many great deeds of his father Fionn Mac Cumhaill. He spoke of his time in Tír na nÓg and his beautiful golden haired wife Niamh. Oisín died soon after, never returning to Tír na nÓg. The wonderful stories of Niamh and Oisín have lived on throughout the ages. The legend of the Land of Eternal Youth remains.

https://gaeilgelecheile.weebly.com/contaetha-na-heacuteireann.html

The first section on Paper 2 is the reading comprehension section. There are two comprehensions worth 50 marks each.

• Always answer the léamhthuiscint first.

• There are no choices in the questions.

• Allow 30 minutes for each léamhthuiscint.

• Each passage will have five questions worth 10 marks each.

First read the questions, as they will give you a good overall view of the subject matter of the piece.

Then read the passage itself two or three times. Each time you read over it you will understand more than the previous reading.

Ensure that you have studied the basic vocabulary to help you comprehend the questions.

Overall, reading as much Irish as you can will really improve your comprehension. Practise past exam papers and you will become accustomed to the style of questioning. Do not rush through the comprehensions. Read through each piece first. Answer all questions even if you are not one hundred percent sure of what it means. Make an educated guess.

10 marks are alocated for six questions at the end of your Sraith

To view the curriculum click here

https://www.curriculumonline.ie/getmedia/c794666b-8ca5-4f78-8160-809e296d19d2/Siollabais-Nuashonraithe-na-hArdteistimeireachta_1.pdf

Hurlamaboc (commotion/uproar) is an Irish-language novel by Éilís Ní Dhuibhne, published in 2006, about three Dublin teenagers and a family with a narrow-minded, materialistic outlook during the Celtic Tiger era. The novel, set in the wealthy suburbs of Dublin, offers a satirical look at the social prejudices, empty lives, and false pretenses of the middle and upper classes during that period of Irish history.
 

What is Hurlamaboc about?

• Teenage protagonists:

  The story follows Ruán, Emma, and Colm, three teenagers from different backgrounds preparing for the Leaving Certificate. 

• Social satire:

  The novel satirizes the snobbery and superficiality of wealthy Dublin families, particularly the hollow lives of housewives like Lisín and the pretentiousness of the era. 

• The Celtic Tiger:

  The story is set in the "Celtic Tiger" period of Ireland's economic boom, which led to a focus on wealth and material possessions. 

• Themes:

  The book explores themes of social prejudice, bigotry, identity, and the pressures of growing up in a materialistic society. 

Foirfe = perfect

Ag ullmhú cóisire = preparing a party

Chun ceiliúradh = in order to celebrate

Ag tnúth leis = looking forward to it

Múnlaithe = moulded

Dhá chuisneoir = 2 freezers

Sna prócaí = in the vases

Faiseanta = fashionable

Aisteach = strange

Lagmhisneach = discouragement

Comharsa = neighbour

Cuireadh = invite

Gealgháireach = cheerful

Súile géara = sharp eyes

Ranganna teanga = language classes

Léargas = insight

Ar an dromchlá = on the surface

Eagraithe = organised

Sónna an tsaoil = the luxuries of life

Ar ábharachas = materialism

Uas-aicme = upper class

Ró-mhealltach = attractive

‘Ní mar a shíltear a bhítear’ = things are not as they seem

Lisín – English
Lisín is a fashionable and confident woman. She is married to Pól and has two sons, Cuán and Ruán. She is very ambitious and obsessed with her image in society. She cares deeply about appearance and status: she is clever, attractive, slim and wealthy. She is involved in many groups and is always busy with social activities. Although she seems perfect on the surface, Ruán feels she is not truly compassionate or understanding as a mother. Therefore, the story shows both the strengths and the flaws in Lisín’s character.

Pól – English
Pól is a successful, clever and ambitious man. When he was young, he was poor and unemployed, but with Lisín’s encouragement and drive, he managed to make money. Now he is wealthy and has investments in many countries. He is hardworking and society views him as very intelligent. However, we see that much of his success is due to Lisín, and that she often controls his life.

Tá beirt mhac ag Lisín agus Pól – Ruán agus Cuán. Is é Ruán an duine is sine agus is déagóir é. Is buachaill ciúin, íogaire agus smaointeach é. Cé go bhfeiceann sé go bhfuil a mháthair foirfe ar an dromchla, mothaíonn sé nach bhfuil fíorghrá aici dó agus go bhfuil sí ag cur brú air. Léiríonn sé amhras agus critice ar shaol “foirfe” Lisín.

Is é Cuán an duine is óige. Tá sé dílis dá mháthair agus déanann sé gach rud chun í a shásamh. Tá sé cliste agus dathúil, cosúil léi, agus glacann sé leis an saol atá cruthaithe aici gan cheist. Ní léiríonn sé an méid céanna amhras agus a dhéanann Ruán.

Mar sin, taispeánann na beirt mhac dhá dhearcadh éagsúla ar an teaghlach: Ruán – íogaire agus cúthail, agus Cuán – dílis agus compordach.

Ruán and Cuán – English

Lisín and Pól have two sons – Ruán and Cuán. Ruán is the older son and a teenager. He is quiet, sensitive and thoughtful. Although he sees that his mother is perfect on the surface, he feels she doesn’t truly love him and that she puts pressure on him. He represents doubt and criticism of Lisín’s “perfect” life.

Cuán is the younger son. He is loyal to his mother and does everything to please her. He is clever and good-looking, like her, and he accepts the life she has created without question. He doesn’t show the same doubt as Ruán.

Together, the two sons show two very different perspectives on the family: Ruán – sensitive and doubtful, and Cuán – loyal and comfortable.

• Lisín, Pól, Ruan, and their party​ ​ ​

• Be able to describe Lisín's happin­ess­/ma­rriage life/p­ast­-times/ relati­ons­hip­s/likes or dislikes

• Know what is celebrated

• Know why/how they set up a party

Organisations

These groups work to promote Irish in schools, communities, and everyday life.

• Conradh na Gaeilge (CNAG) – Campaigns for more Irish in daily life (laws, media, signs, schools).

• Glór na nGael – Helps families, communities, and businesses use more Irish.

• Gael Linn – Runs Irish classes, cultural events, and competitions.

• Cumann na bhFiann – Irish youth clubs where teenagers can speak Irish outside school.

• Gaeloideachas – Helps set up Irish-language schools outside the Gaeltacht.

• An tOireachtas – Organises the big Irish-language festival every year, with music, poetry, and competitions.

• Foras na Gaeilge – All-Ireland body that gives money and support to Irish projects.

• COGG – Helps schools with books, resources, and advice for Irish-medium teaching.

• CONCOS – Represents Irish summer colleges.

• Gael-Taca – Encourages businesses in Cork to use Irish.

📻

Radio Stations

These are stations you can listen to in Irish.

• Raidió na Gaeltachta (RnaG) – National Irish station with news, music, and chat shows.

• Raidió Rí-Rá – Plays chart/pop music in Irish (aimed at young people).

• Raidió na Life – Dublin station with Irish music, interviews, and shows.

• Raidió Fáilte – Belfast station, 24/7 Irish broadcasting.

• Connemara Community Radio – Local Galway station with some Irish programmes.

• An Seinnteoir Raidió (app) – Free app where you can listen to all Irish radio stations in one place.

• Worth 60 marks (Paper 1).

• 3 sections: Cuid A, B, C.

• Each part played twice.

• About 20 minutes long.

📊 Marks

• Total: 60 marks.

• Spread fairly evenly across the 3 sections.

• Small penalties for spelling (max ~2–3 marks).

✅ Top Tips

1. Read questions first – underline key words (cé, cad, cá, cén fáth).

2. Listen carefully twice – focus on the keywords.

3. Don’t leave blanks – guess if unsure.

4. Spelling counts a little – but don’t panic.

5. Practice past papers with audio + scripts.

6. Get used to accents – listen to Raidió na Gaeltachta / Irish podcasts.

7. Little & often – short daily practice works best.

• An Scoláire féin agus a T(h)impeallacht — The student and their surroundings

• Cúrsaí Scoile agus Oibre — School and work

• An Ghaeilge Timpeall Orainn — Irish around us

• Saol an Duine Óig — The life of the young person

• Na Meáin Chumarsáide, TFC san áireamh — The media

• Ábhair eile a gcuireann an scoláire spéis iontu — Other subjects that interest the student

An Scoláire féin agus a T(h)impeallacht — The student and their surroundings

Cúrsaí Scoile agus Oibre — School and work

An Ghaeilge Timpeall Orainn — Irish around us

Saol an Duine Óig — The life of the young person

Na Meáin Chumarsáide, TFC san áireamh — The media

Ábhair eile a gcuireann an scoláire spéis iontu — Other subjects that interest the student

An Scoláire féin agus a T(h)impeallacht — The student and their surroundings

Cúrsaí Scoile agus Oibre — School and work

An Ghaeilge Timpeall Orainn — Irish around us

Saol an Duine Óig — The life of the young person

Na Meáin Chumarsáide, TFC san áireamh — The media

Ábhair eile a gcuireann an scoláire spéis iontu — Other subjects that interest the student

• Gaeilge: Irish

• Béarla: English

• Mata/Matamaitic: Maths/Mathematics

Humanities 

• Stair: History

• Tír Eolaíocht: Geography

• Reiligiún: Religion

Sciences 

• Eolaíocht: Science

• Fisic: Physics

• Bitheolaíocht: Biology

• Ceimic: Chemistry

Arts & Creative Subjects 

• Ealaín: Art

• Ceol: Music

• Dráma: Drama

Languages & Social Subjects 

• Fraincis: French

• Spáinnís: Spanish

• Gearmáinis: German

• Staidéar Gnó / Gnó: Business Studies / Business

• Eacnamaíocht Bhaile / Tíos: Home Economics

• OSSP / CSPE: Social, Personal and Health Education

• OSSP / CSPE: Civic, Social and Political Education

Practical & Other Subjects 

• Corpoideachas: Physical Education (PE)

• Teicneolaíocht: Technology

• Liníocht Theicniúil: Technical Graphics

• Sacar - Soccer

• Peil Ghealach - Gaelic football

• Iománaíocht - Hurling

• Cispheil - Basketball

• Leadóg - Tennis

• Galf - Golf

• Reathaíocht - Running

• Snámh - Swimming

• Rugbaí - Rugby

• Haca - Hockey

Rugadh Máirtín Ó Díreáin (1910–1988) ar Inis Mór, Árainn. Tógadh é i bpobal Gaeltachta traidisiúnta ach bhog sé go Gaillimh agus go Baile Átha Cliath ag obair. Cé gur mhair sé sa chathair, mhothaigh sé cumha don oileán agus don saol simplí ann.

Meastar gurbh é ceann de na filí móra nua-aimseartha é. Léiríonn a chuid filíochta grá don Árann, meas ar an traidisiún agus ar áilleacht an dúlra, agus an chodarsnacht idir an tuath agus an chathair. I measc na ndánta is cáiliúla tá An tEarrach Thiar agus Coinnle Geala.

English

Máirtín Ó Díreáin (1910–1988) was born on Inis Mór, one of the Aran Islands. He grew up in a traditional Irish-speaking community but later moved to Galway and then Dublin to work. Even while living in the city, he often felt homesick for the islands and the simple way of life there.

He is regarded as one of the greatest modern Irish poets. His poetry shows love of the Aran Islands, respect for tradition, and the beauty of nature, while also highlighting the contrast between rural and city life. Famous poems include An tEarrach Thiar and Coinnle Geala.

Verse 1
A man cleaning clay
From a spade’s edge,
In the gentle quiet
Of a warm day:
Sweet is the sound
of springtime in the west.

Verse 2
A man casting down
A creel from his back,
And the red seaweed
Shining
In the sunlight’s glow
On the white beach.
Glorious the sight
Of springtime in the west.

Verse 3
Women in the little pools
At low tide,
Their skirts tucked up,
Shadows beneath them:
Peaceful and calm is the picture
of springtime in the west.

Verse 4
Gentle hollow beats
Of oars,
A currach full of fish
Coming towards the shore
On a golden, slow sea
At the end of day;
In springtime in the west.

• The poem is about the beauty and peace of life on the Aran Islands.

• Ó Díreáin remembers his home with love and nostalgia.

• He contrasts this calm life with the noise and rush of the city.

  
  

2. Images in Each Verse

1. A man cleaning clay from his spade.

2. A man carrying seaweed shining in the sunlight.

3. Women working by the shore at low tide.

4. A currach full of fish coming in at evening.

Each picture is quiet, gentle, and full of beauty.

3. Style and Language

• Simple Irish, easy to understand.

• Strong use of the senses: sound (“binn an fhuaim”), sight (“niamhrach an radharc”).

• The line “San Earrach Thiar” is repeated, showing longing for the west.

• Tone = calm, positive, nostalgic.

  
  

4. Feelings in the Poem

• Peace and harmony.

• Love for nature, the sea, and traditional island life.

• Longing for the past.

  
  

✅ For the LC Ordinary Level exam, students should:

• Be able to say what the poem is about in simple terms.

• Describe the images in each verse.

• Mention the mood (calm, peaceful, nostalgic).

• Use a short quote to back it up (“Binn an fhuaim”, “Niamhrach an radharc”).

The first image is one of sound – the sound a man makes as he scrapes the earth off his spade while sowing potatoes in his little Aran field.

The second is visual – a man casting a creel off his back on a white rocky shore, the red seaweed glistening in the sun.

The third is also visual – a group of island women knee-deep in salt-pools at low tide, shadows reflected beneath them.

The last image is based on both aural and visual – a currach laden down with fish coming ashore on a golden, steady sea, the hollow muffled sound of oars; a sign that the day’s work (and that of this poem) is done.

Despite these harsh conditions, An Spailpín Fánach expresses pride, courage, and love of the land. The spailpín’s work connected him to the Irish countryside, and he often resisted oppression in small ways, showing determination and resilience. The song/poem also reflects the social inequality of the time: landlords and estate owners held most of the wealth and power, while ordinary rural people struggled to survive. Cultural resistance was important too—songs like this kept Irish language, traditions, and identity alive.

An Spailpín Fánach gives us a vivid picture of rural life in Ireland before major land reforms and the Land Wars, showing both the difficulties of life and the pride of the people who lived it.

VERSE 1

I have been a Travelling Labourer for a long time depending on my health

walking the dew early in the morning and gathering seasonal illnesses;

but I would accept fees from the king of the croppies, a stake and a pitchfork for thrusting

and never again will my name be called in this country,

the travelling laborer.

VERSE 2

I often travelled to bright Clonmel and from there to Tipperary;

in Carrick-on-suir downwards

I would cut a strong wide path;

in Callan so dense and my flail (for threshing) in my grasp going forwards regardless

and when I go to Thurles this is what I usually have (hear) "Here comes the travelling labourer!"

VERSE 3

Never ever again would I go to Cashel

selling nor wrecking my health

nor to the market of freedom sitting beside a wall, s

tringy fellow on the side of the street,

the landlords /big farmers of the country coming on their horses asking am I hired; '

make for walking, the road is long'

- such is the walk of the travelling labourer.

The story uses simple, clear language to describe everyday life, creating a strong sense of realism. Themes include the fragility of life, the unpredictability of events, and the impact of societal pressures on ordinary people.

Overall, An Gnáthrud emphasizes how ordinary life could be affected by forces beyond a person’s control, reflecting the experiences of 20th-century Ireland.

The story is set in mid-20th-century Ireland, a time when women were often expected to focus on domestic duties and family life, with little opportunity for personal freedom or independence. Máire feels trapped and unappreciated, and the story highlights the tension between her desire for personal freedom and the social and marital obligations placed on her.

Through simple, realistic language, Ní Shúilleabháin explores the pressures faced by ordinary women and the inequality in gender roles at the time. Dís gives readers insight into everyday life in rural and small-town Ireland, showing how societal expectations could affect women’s happiness and well-being, while also emphasizing the importance of understanding and empathy within marriage.

(Gaeilge & Béarla)

🪱 1. Fear ag glanadh cré de ghimseán spáide

Gaeilge: Feicimid fear ag obair sa pháirc, ag glanadh cré dá spád. Tá sé ciúin agus suaimhneach, an aimsir te agus síochánta.
Béarla: We see a man working in the field, cleaning clay from his spade. The day is warm and peaceful.

➡️ Íomhá: Obair thraidisiúnta na tuaithe.
➡️ Image: Traditional farm work.

🌊 2. Fear ag caitheamh cliabh dhá dhroim

Gaeilge: Tá fear ag iompar feamainne dheirge ar a dhroim. Tá an ghrian ag taitneamh ar an bhfeamainn agus ar an gcladach bán.
Béarla: A man carries red seaweed on his back. The sun shines on the seaweed and on the white strand.

➡️ Íomhá: Dúlra álainn, dathanna geala an earraigh.
➡️ Image: Beautiful nature, bright colours of spring.

👩‍🦰 3. Mná i locháin in íochtar diaidh-thrá

Gaeilge: Tá mná ag bailiú bia nó sliogéisc i locháin bheaga tar éis trá. Tá sé socair agus ciúin, gan deifir ar bith.
Béarla: Women work in the shallow pools at low tide, gathering food or shellfish. Everything is calm and peaceful.

➡️ Íomhá: Síocháin, comhoibriú, agus saol mall traidisiúnta.
➡️ Image: Peace, cooperation, and a slow traditional life.

🚣‍♂️ 4. Currach lán éisc ag teacht chun cladaigh

Gaeilge: Tagann na hiascairí abhaile tráthnóna, ag rámhaíocht go mall ar an bhfarraige órga.
Béarla: The fishermen come home in the evening, rowing slowly across the golden sea.

➡️ Íomhá: Deireadh an lae, ciúnas, sástacht.
➡️ Image: End of the day, calmness, contentment.

💭 Mothúchán / Mood

Gaeilge: Léiríonn an dán grá don dúlra, don oileán agus don saol simplí síochánta a bhí ag muintir Árann.
Béarla: The poem shows love for nature, the island, and the simple, peaceful life of the Aran people.

https://youtube.com/@comhdhail?si=x7nkMdenYFBU9wv-

https://www.canuint.ie/

Fifteen Lines per Topic= Half a Page

Fifteen Lines per Topic= Half a Page

Paper 1

Letter

Letter

I mo thuairim féin, tá roinnt fadhbanna sóisialta i mo cheantar. Ar an gcéad dul síos, tá fadhb leis an tithíocht mar tá tithe an-chostasach. Tá sé deacair do dhaoine óga áit a fháil le cónaí.

Ina theannta sin, tá fadhb leis an trácht agus leis an iompar poiblí. Bíonn an iomarca carranna ar na bóithre agus bíonn na busanna mall uaireanta.

Chomh maith leis sin, bíonn bruscar sa cheantar uaireanta. Ba chóir do dhaoine níos mó aire a thabhairt don timpeallacht.

English:

In my opinion, there are some social problems in my area. First of all, there is a problem with housing because houses are very expensive. It is difficult for young people to find a place to live.

In addition, there is a problem with traffic and public transport. There are too many cars on the roads and the buses are sometimes slow.

Also, there is sometimes litter in the area. People should take better care of the environment.