What comes up in Leaving Cert Irish
We read every question of every Irish paper from 2017 to 2026 and noted the topics each one needs. Here is the full list, paper by paper and question by question, so you can see exactly where each topic has come up, and so teachers can check the counts printed in our Exam Ready workbooks.
New course. Paper 2 has new prescribed prose and poems for the Leaving Cert class of 2027 (circular 0041/2026). The question types below still apply; the texts named in the older papers do not. Paper 1 and the reading in Paper 2 are unchanged.
How we count. A topic counts for a question when at least one part of it asks for it. In Paper 1 we counted the task types and themes on offer (you write only one piece at Higher Level, two at Ordinary Level); in Paper 2 the reading counts once for each passage.
Every question printed. We count all the questions on the paper, including the ones students could choose to skip.
The years. There were no written exams in 2020: grades were calculated instead. The 2021 and 2022 papers had extra choice because of the pandemic.
A guide, not a prediction. The papers are set fresh each year. Use this to plan revision, not to skip topics.
Higher Level Paper 1Higher Level Paper 2 (new texts from 2027)Ordinary Level Paper 1Ordinary Level Paper 2 (new texts from 2027)
Higher Level Paper 1: questions per topic
Each number is how many of that year's questions needed the topic. 54 questions in all.
| 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cluastuiscint (aural) | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 27 |
| Theme: young people & education | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 2 | – | – | 1 | 1 | 10 |
| Theme: society & equality | 1 | – | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 10 |
| Theme: world affairs & politics | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | – | 1 | 1 | 1 | 10 |
| Aiste (essay) | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 9 |
| Alt nuachtáin/irise (article) | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 9 |
| Scéal (story) | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 9 |
| Díospóireacht (debate) | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 9 |
| Óráid / píosa cainte (speech or talk) | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 9 |
| Theme: sport & pastimes | 1 | 1 | 2 | – | – | – | 2 | – | 1 | 7 |
| Theme: technology & media | – | 1 | – | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 7 |
| Theme: work, money & housing | 1 | 1 | 1 | – | – | 1 | – | – | – | 4 |
| Theme: Irish language & culture | – | 1 | – | 1 | – | 1 | – | – | 1 | 4 |
| Theme: environment & climate | – | 1 | – | 1 | – | – | – | 1 | 1 | 4 |
| Theme: health & wellbeing | – | – | 1 | – | – | 1 | – | – | – | 2 |
Higher Level Paper 1, question by question
2026 · Higher Level Paper 1 · 6 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| IA | Cuid I | Announcements: coffee-truck barista job; Trinity Irish-language residence scheme | Cluastuiscint (aural) Fógra 1, Fógra 2 |
| IB | Cuid I | Conversations: county final foul and holiday plans; Fleadh Cheoil world record | Cluastuiscint (aural) Comhrá 1, Comhrá 2 |
| IC | Cuid I | News: Ros na Rún on TG4; first Youth Work night | Cluastuiscint (aural) Píosa 1, Píosa 2 |
| IIA | Cuid II | Essay/article: Irish culture, daily annoyances, world news, climate, online safetyNote: Option is essay OR article (candidate's choice); both formats listed. (b) 'what bothers people most today' fits no theme. | Aiste (essay) any of (a)-(e)Alt nuachtáin/irise (article) any of (a)-(e)Theme: Irish language & culture (a) Irish and Gaelic cultureTheme: world affairs & politics (c) international newsTheme: environment & climate (d) climate crisisTheme: technology & media (e) online safety |
| IIB | Cuid II | Story: respect, or proverb about travellers having talesNote: Titles are a single word and a proverb; no theme assigned. | Scéal (story) (a) Meas, (b) Bíonn siúlach scéalach |
| IIC | Cuid II | Debate on fair treatment in Ireland, or talk on youth pastimes | Díospóireacht (debate) (a) everyone treated fairly in IrelandÓráid / píosa cainte (speech or talk) (b) radio talk: pastimes for young peopleTheme: society & equality (a) fair treatmentTheme: sport & pastimes (b) pastimesTheme: young people & education (b) young people |
2025 · Higher Level Paper 1 · 6 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| IA | Cuid I | Announcements: new Raidió na Gaeltachta youth programme; school air-pollution project | Cluastuiscint (aural) Fógra 1, Fógra 2 |
| IB | Cuid I | Conversations: new job and gym membership; emigrant sister, Brazilian in Limerick | Cluastuiscint (aural) Comhrá 1, Comhrá 2 |
| IC | Cuid I | News: deposit return scheme launch; new photo archive | Cluastuiscint (aural) Píosa 1, Píosa 2 |
| IIA | Cuid II | Essay/article: admired people, Ireland to live in, environment, politics, newsNote: Option is essay OR article (candidate's choice); both formats listed. (a) people I admire fits no theme; (e) news stories tagged world affairs. | Aiste (essay) any of (a)-(e)Alt nuachtáin/irise (article) any of (a)-(e)Theme: society & equality (b) Ireland a good place to live?Theme: environment & climate (c) the environmentTheme: world affairs & politics (d) politicians worldwide, (e) big news stories |
| IIB | Cuid II | Story: hope, or proverb about life being strangeNote: Titles are a single word and a proverb; no theme assigned. | Scéal (story) (a) Dóchas, (b) Is ait an mac an saol |
| IIC | Cuid II | Debate on young people's lives, or radio talk on AI | Díospóireacht (debate) (a) young people have a good life todayÓráid / píosa cainte (speech or talk) (b) radio talk: AI opportunities and challengesTheme: young people & education (a) young people's lifeTheme: technology & media (b) artificial intelligence |
2024 · Higher Level Paper 1 · 6 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| IA | Cuid I | Announcements: school joins Gaelbhratach scheme; museum exhibitions | Cluastuiscint (aural) Fógra 1, Fógra 2 |
| IB | Cuid I | Conversations: Italian heatwave and wildfires; Focus Ireland sleep-out | Cluastuiscint (aural) Comhrá 1, Comhrá 2 |
| IC | Cuid I | News: 24-hour digital-device switch-off; award-winning TG4 music series | Cluastuiscint (aural) Píosa 1, Píosa 2 |
| IIA | Cuid II | Essay/article: social media, good life for all, international affairs, sport, rural lifeNote: Option is essay OR article (candidate's choice); both formats listed. (e) rural life now and in future tagged society as nearest theme. | Aiste (essay) any of (a)-(e)Alt nuachtáin/irise (article) any of (a)-(e)Theme: technology & media (a) power of social mediaTheme: society & equality (b) good life for everyone?, (e) rural lifeTheme: world affairs & politics (c) Ireland and international affairsTheme: sport & pastimes (d) joy and heartbreak of sport |
| IIB | Cuid II | Story: pity, or proverb about time telling the taleNote: Titles are a single word and a proverb; no theme assigned. | Scéal (story) (a) Trua, (b) Is maith an scéalaí an aimsir |
| IIC | Cuid II | Debate on holidaying at home, or talk on musicNote: Holidays and music tagged as pastimes (nearest theme). | Díospóireacht (debate) (a) better to holiday in Ireland than abroadÓráid / píosa cainte (speech or talk) (b) radio talk: role of music in people's livesTheme: sport & pastimes (a) holidays, (b) music |
2023 · Higher Level Paper 1 · 6 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| IA | Cuid I | Announcements: online Irish book club; University of Limerick open day | Cluastuiscint (aural) Fógra 1, Fógra 2 |
| IB | Cuid I | Conversations: plastic pollution and festival litter; Spanish course abroad | Cluastuiscint (aural) Comhrá 1, Comhrá 2 |
| IC | Cuid I | News: Irish-language podcast awards; Pelé's football career | Cluastuiscint (aural) Píosa 1, Píosa 2 |
| IIA | Cuid II | Essay/article: cost of living, drugs, celebrities, injustice, healthNote: Option is essay OR article (candidate's choice); both formats listed. (b) drugs tagged health (could also be society); (c) famous people fits no theme. | Aiste (essay) any of (a)-(e)Alt nuachtáin/irise (article) any of (a)-(e)Theme: work, money & housing (a) cost of livingTheme: health & wellbeing (b) drug problem, (e) threats to healthTheme: society & equality (d) injustice |
| IIB | Cuid II | Story: courage, or proverb about no place like homeNote: Titles are a single word and a proverb; no theme assigned. | Scéal (story) (a) Misneach, (b) Níl aon tinteán mar do thinteán féin |
| IIC | Cuid II | Debate on Irish in digital age, or talk on charities | Díospóireacht (debate) (a) Irish alive in the digital ageÓráid / píosa cainte (speech or talk) (b) radio talk: work of charitiesTheme: Irish language & culture (a) Irish in digital ageTheme: technology & media (a) Irish in digital ageTheme: society & equality (b) charities |
2022 · Higher Level Paper 1 · 6 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| IA | Cuid I | Announcements: TG4 games-programme job; school green day | Cluastuiscint (aural) Fógra 1, Fógra 2 |
| IB | Cuid I | Conversations: driving test and car costs; charity and online shopping | Cluastuiscint (aural) Comhrá 1, Comhrá 2 |
| IC | Cuid I | News: government housing policy; actor Dónall Ó Héalaí in Arracht | Cluastuiscint (aural) Píosa 1, Píosa 2 |
| IIA | Cuid II | Essay/article: Irish society, social media, EU, youth life, heroesNote: Option is essay OR article (candidate's choice); both formats listed. (e) 'my heroes' fits no theme. | Aiste (essay) any of (a)-(e)Alt nuachtáin/irise (article) any of (a)-(e)Theme: society & equality (a) Irish society todayTheme: technology & media (b) social mediaTheme: world affairs & politics (c) Ireland and the EUTheme: young people & education (d) young person's life |
| IIB | Cuid II | Story: gratitude, or proverb on silence being goldenNote: Titles are a single word and a proverb; no theme assigned. | Scéal (story) (a) Buíochas, (b) Is binn béal ina thost |
| IIC | Cuid II | Debate on fair play for all, or talk on education experience | Díospóireacht (debate) (a) everyone gets fair play todayÓráid / píosa cainte (speech or talk) (b) radio talk: my experience of educationTheme: society & equality (a) fair play for allTheme: young people & education (b) education system |
2021 · Higher Level Paper 1 · 6 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| IA | Cuid I | Announcements: NUI Galway job; student writing competition | Cluastuiscint (aural) Fógra 1, Fógra 2 |
| IB | Cuid I | Conversations: Donegal staycation and Tory Island; school musical | Cluastuiscint (aural) Comhrá 1, Comhrá 2 |
| IC | Cuid I | News: President launches new dictionary online; Nobel Peace Prize | Cluastuiscint (aural) Píosa 1, Píosa 2 |
| IIA | Cuid II | Essay/article: big problems, human rights, climate, Irish culture, technologyNote: Option is essay OR article (candidate's choice); both formats listed. (a) 'big problems of our time' is open; tagged world affairs as nearest. | Aiste (essay) any of (a)-(e)Alt nuachtáin/irise (article) any of (a)-(e)Theme: world affairs & politics (a) big problems of our timeTheme: society & equality (b) human rightsTheme: environment & climate (c) climate changeTheme: Irish language & culture (d) Irish and Gaelic cultureTheme: technology & media (e) technology pros and cons |
| IIB | Cuid II | Story: bravery, or proverb on people relying on each otherNote: Titles are a single word and a proverb; no theme assigned. | Scéal (story) (a) Crógacht, (b) Ar scáth a chéile a mhaireann na daoine |
| IIC | Cuid II | Debate on effective government, or talk on young people's lives | Díospóireacht (debate) (a) we have effective governmentÓráid / píosa cainte (speech or talk) (b) radio talk: young person's life in IrelandTheme: world affairs & politics (a) governmentTheme: young people & education (b) young people's life |
2019 · Higher Level Paper 1 · 6 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| IA | Cuid I | Announcements: youth competition; farmers' meeting on fodder shortage | Cluastuiscint (aural) Fógra 1, Fógra 2 |
| IB | Cuid I | Conversations: bike shop and greenways; Dublin student accommodation hunt | Cluastuiscint (aural) Comhrá 1, Comhrá 2 |
| IC | Cuid I | News: Fanad Head lighthouse tourism; Dublin football four-in-a-row | Cluastuiscint (aural) Píosa 1, Píosa 2 |
| IIA | Cuid II | Essay/article: housing crisis, women's sport, progress, student life, geopoliticsNote: Option is essay OR article (candidate's choice); both formats listed. (c) 'changes for the better in Ireland' is broad; tagged society. | Aiste (essay) any of (a)-(e)Alt nuachtáin/irise (article) any of (a)-(e)Theme: work, money & housing (a) housing crisisTheme: sport & pastimes (b) women in sportTheme: society & equality (b) women in sport, (c) recent improvements in Irish lifeTheme: young people & education (d) second-level student lifeTheme: world affairs & politics (e) international relations |
| IIB | Cuid II | Story: relief, or proverb on sense coming with ageNote: Titles are a single word and a proverb; no theme assigned. | Scéal (story) (a) Faoiseamh, (b) Ní thagann ciall roimh aois |
| IIC | Cuid II | Debate on young people's health, or radio talk on readingNote: (b) reading tagged as a pastime (nearest theme). | Díospóireacht (debate) (a) young people look after their healthÓráid / píosa cainte (speech or talk) (b) radio talk: reading habit todayTheme: health & wellbeing (a) young people's healthTheme: young people & education (a) young people's healthTheme: sport & pastimes (b) reading habit |
2018 · Higher Level Paper 1 · 6 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| IA | Cuid I | Announcements: Culture Night events; Christmas play and storm-damaged school | Cluastuiscint (aural) Fógra 1, Fógra 2 |
| IB | Cuid I | Conversations: homelessness volunteering award; Jakub's citizenship and summer college | Cluastuiscint (aural) Comhrá 1, Comhrá 2 |
| IC | Cuid I | News: Gaeltacht woman honoured by university; Taoiseach's Irish certificate | Cluastuiscint (aural) Píosa 1, Píosa 2 |
| IIA | Cuid II | Essay/article: music, admired public figures, Gaeltacht, economy, climateNote: Option is essay OR article (candidate's choice); both formats listed. (a) music tagged as pastime and young people; (b) admired public figures fits no theme. | Aiste (essay) any of (a)-(e)Alt nuachtáin/irise (article) any of (a)-(e)Theme: sport & pastimes (a) music for young peopleTheme: young people & education (a) music for young peopleTheme: Irish language & culture (c) Irish and the GaeltachtTheme: work, money & housing (d) economy improvingTheme: environment & climate (e) climate change |
| IIB | Cuid II | Story: revenge, or proverb on friendship over goldNote: Titles are a single word and a proverb; no theme assigned. | Scéal (story) (a) Díoltas, (b) Is fearr cara ná ór |
| IIC | Cuid II | Debate on social media and youth, or talk on President's role | Díospóireacht (debate) (a) social media influence on young peopleÓráid / píosa cainte (speech or talk) (b) radio talk: role of the PresidentTheme: technology & media (a) social mediaTheme: young people & education (a) young peopleTheme: world affairs & politics (b) President of Ireland |
2017 · Higher Level Paper 1 · 6 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| IA | Cuid I | Announcements: Irish-language officer job; PE information day for students | Cluastuiscint (aural) Fógra 1, Fógra 2 |
| IB | Cuid I | Conversations: son's phone problem; sister working in Brussels | Cluastuiscint (aural) Comhrá 1, Comhrá 2 |
| IC | Cuid I | News: Fíbín theatre company; Robbie Keane's football career | Cluastuiscint (aural) Píosa 1, Píosa 2 |
| IIA | Cuid II | Essay/article: education, sport scandals, equality, politicians, global violenceNote: Option is essay OR article (candidate's choice); both formats listed. | Aiste (essay) any of (a)-(e)Alt nuachtáin/irise (article) any of (a)-(e)Theme: young people & education (a) second-level educationTheme: sport & pastimes (b) scandals in sportTheme: society & equality (c) equal societyTheme: world affairs & politics (d) political leaders, (e) violence worldwide |
| IIB | Cuid II | Story: loneliness, or proverb about rare things being wonderfulNote: Titles are a single word and a proverb; no theme assigned. | Scéal (story) (a) Uaigneas, (b) An rud is annamh is iontach |
| IIC | Cuid II | Debate on Brexit, or radio talk on housing problem | Díospóireacht (debate) (a) Brexit good for IrelandÓráid / píosa cainte (speech or talk) (b) radio talk: housing problemTheme: world affairs & politics (a) BrexitTheme: work, money & housing (b) housing |
Higher Level Paper 2 (new texts from 2027): questions per topic
Each number is how many of that year's questions needed the topic. 45 questions in all.
| 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Léamhthuiscint (reading) | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 18 |
| Own-words answer, 6(b) | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 18 |
| Prós: character | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 18 |
| Filíocht: theme | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 18 |
| Grammar: briathar saor | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 16 |
| Prós: relationships & conflict | 1 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 15 |
| Filíocht: technique | 2 | 2 | – | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 13 |
| Filíocht: feelings & atmosphere | 1 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 2 | – | 1 | 2 | 1 | 12 |
| Your own view | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | – | 2 | 10 |
| Litríocht bhreise (additional lit.) | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 9 |
| Prós: theme | – | 1 | – | 2 | 2 | 1 | 2 | – | 1 | 9 |
| Prós: plot / events | – | – | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 9 |
| Grammar: tuiseal ginideach | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | – | 1 | – | 8 |
| Filíocht: imagery | 1 | – | 1 | – | 2 | 1 | – | 2 | 1 | 8 |
| Filíocht: the poet's life & work | 1 | – | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 8 |
| Prós: feelings | – | 1 | – | 1 | – | 2 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 8 |
| Grammar: modh coinníollach | 1 | – | 1 | 1 | 1 | – | 1 | – | 1 | 6 |
| Grammar: comparison of adjectives | – | 1 | – | – | – | – | 1 | 1 | 1 | 4 |
| Prós: technique | – | – | 1 | – | – | 1 | 1 | 1 | – | 4 |
| Grammar: verb tenses | 1 | – | – | – | – | 1 | – | – | – | 2 |
Higher Level Paper 2 (new texts from 2027), question by question
2026 · Higher Level Paper 2 (new texts from 2027) · 5 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1A | Ceist 1 | Sister Stan: life and legacy of a social activist | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5Own-words answer, 6(b) 6(b)Grammar: briathar saor 6(a) aimsir chaiteGrammar: comparison of adjectives 6(a) breischéim |
| 1B | Ceist 1 | Fast fashion versus circular, sustainable fashion in Ireland | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5Own-words answer, 6(b) 6(b)Grammar: briathar saor 6(a) aimsir láithreachGrammar: modh coinníollach 6(a) |
| 2 | Ceist 2 | Cáca Milis, Lasair Choille or Dís; optional film, drama, short story | Prós: character 2A(a) Cáca Milis, 2A(a) An Lasair Choille, 2A(b) Dís, 2B(a) film/drama, 2B(b) short storyPrós: relationships & conflict 2A(a) Cáca Milis, 2A(a) An Lasair ChoillePrós: plot / events 2B(a) film/drama (effect on events) |
| 3 | Ceist 3 | An tEarrach Thiar or Mo ghrá-sa images; optional modern poems | Filíocht: imagery 3A(a)(i) An tEarrach Thiar, 3A(b)(i) Mo ghrá-saFilíocht: technique 3A(a)(ii) repetition, 3A(b)(ii) brackets, 3B(b)(ii) titleFilíocht: theme 3B(a)(i), 3B(b)(i)Filíocht: feelings & atmosphere 3B(a)(ii)Your own view 3B(b)(ii) titleFilíocht: the poet's life & work 3A(a)(iii), 3A(b)(iii), 3B(a)(iii), 3B(b)(iii) |
| 4 | Ceist 4 | Additional texts: society in An Triail, Maidhc's traits, Diarmaid, ColmáinNote: 4F(ii) 'explain these lines' counted as Filíocht: theme (no closer topic). | Litríocht bhreise (additional lit.) 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, 4E, 4FPrós: theme 4A An TriailPrós: character 4B A Thig Ná Tit Orm, 4C Diarmaid, 4E Cúrsa EitiltePrós: feelings 4D GafaPrós: relationships & conflict 4D GafaPrós: plot / events 4E Cúrsa EitilteFilíocht: theme 4F(i) Colmáin, 4F(ii)Your own view 4F(iii) sympathy for the cat |
2025 · Higher Level Paper 2 (new texts from 2027) · 5 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1A | Ceist 1 | Rock guitarist Rory Gallagher: life, music and legacy | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5Own-words answer, 6(b) 6(b)Grammar: briathar saor 6(a) aimsir fháistineachGrammar: tuiseal ginideach 6(a) ainmfhocal baininscneach uatha |
| 1B | Ceist 1 | Irish sport: Paris 2024 success, participation and funding | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5Own-words answer, 6(b) 6(b)Grammar: comparison of adjectives 6(a) breischéimGrammar: briathar saor 6(a) aimsir chaite |
| 2 | Ceist 2 | Hurlamaboc (Lisín) or Oisín; optional novel extract or folk tale | Prós: character 2A(a) Hurlamaboc, 2A(b) Oisín i dTír na nÓg, 2B(a) novel extract, 2B(b) folk talePrós: feelings 2A(b) Oisín heartbroken |
| 3 | Ceist 3 | An Spailpín Fánach or Colscaradh; optional old or modern poem | Filíocht: imagery 3A(a)(i) An Spailpín FánachFilíocht: theme 3A(b)(i) Colscaradh, 3B(a)(i), 3B(b)(i)Filíocht: technique 3A(a)(ii) first-person speaker, 3A(a)(iii) metre, 3A(b)(ii) poet as narrator, 3B(a)(iii) technique, 3B(b)(ii) techniqueFilíocht: feelings & atmosphere 3B(a)(ii)Filíocht: the poet's life & work 3A(b)(iii), 3B(b)(iii) |
| 4 | Ceist 4 | Additional texts: women in An Triail, Gafa, Cosaint Sonraí, CaoineadhNote: 4F(iii) asked for a trait of Art: counted as imagery (portrayal), no character topic for poetry. | Litríocht bhreise (additional lit.) 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, 4E, 4FPrós: character 4A An TriailPrós: relationships & conflict 4A An Triail, 4C Tóraíocht, 4D Gafa, 4E Cosaint SonraíPrós: feelings 4B A Thig Ná Tit OrmPrós: plot / events 4BPrós: technique 4C exaggerationFilíocht: theme 4F(i) CaoineadhFilíocht: feelings & atmosphere 4F(i), 4F(ii) dramatic atmosphereFilíocht: imagery 4F(iii) Art's trait |
2024 · Higher Level Paper 2 (new texts from 2027) · 5 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1A | Ceist 1 | Our Living Islands: government policy for Ireland's offshore islands | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5Own-words answer, 6(b) 6(b)Grammar: briathar saor 6(a) aimsir fháistineachGrammar: comparison of adjectives 6(a) breischéim |
| 1B | Ceist 1 | Artificial intelligence: uses, benefits, risks and regulation | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5Own-words answer, 6(b) 6(b)Grammar: modh coinníollach 6(a)Grammar: briathar saor 6(a) aimsir láithreach |
| 2 | Ceist 2 | Cáca Milis, Lasair Choille symbol or Dís; optional film, drama, storyNote: Cáca Milis 'tragic end of the journey' counted as technique (ending). | Prós: relationships & conflict 2A(a) Cáca MilisPrós: technique 2A(a) Cáca Milis tragic ending, 2A(a) An Lasair Choille symbolPrós: theme 2A(a) An Lasair Choille, 2B(a) film/dramaPrós: character 2A(b) Dís, 2B(b) short storyPrós: feelings 2A(b) Dís |
| 3 | Ceist 3 | Géibheann or An tEarrach Thiar; optional modern poems | Filíocht: theme 3A(a)(i) Géibheann, 3A(b)(i) An tEarrach Thiar, 3B(a)(i), 3B(b)(i)Filíocht: technique 3A(a)(i) contrast, 3A(a)(ii) animal speaks, 3A(b)(ii) repetition, 3A(b)(iii) adjectives, 3B(b)(iii) techniqueYour own view 3B(a)(ii)Filíocht: feelings & atmosphere 3B(b)(ii)Filíocht: the poet's life & work 3A(a)(iii), 3B(a)(iii) |
| 4 | Ceist 4 | Additional texts: shame in An Triail, Diarmaid's dilemma, Gafa, Fill ArísNote: 4F(ii) 'explain these lines' counted as Filíocht: theme (no closer topic). | Litríocht bhreise (additional lit.) 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, 4E, 4FPrós: theme 4A An Triail, 4B A Thig Ná Tit Orm, 4D GafaPrós: plot / events 4B, 4E Saineolaí TeicneolaíPrós: relationships & conflict 4C Tóraíocht, 4D GafaPrós: character 4C DiarmaidFilíocht: theme 4F(i) Fill Arís, 4F(ii)Filíocht: technique 4F(iii) imperative mood |
2023 · Higher Level Paper 2 (new texts from 2027) · 5 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1A | Ceist 1 | Antarctic explorer Tom Crean and the research ship named after him | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5Own-words answer, 6(b) 6(b)Grammar: verb tenses 6(a) aimsir fháistineachGrammar: tuiseal ginideach 6(a) ainmfhocal firinscneach uatha |
| 1B | Ceist 1 | European Year of Youth 2022: programmes and young voices | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5Own-words answer, 6(b) 6(b)Grammar: tuiseal ginideach 6(a) ainmfhocal baininscneach uathaGrammar: briathar saor 6(a) aimsir chaite |
| 2 | Ceist 2 | Oisín's traits or Dís; optional folk tale or short story | Prós: character 2A(a) Oisín i dTír na nÓg, 2B(a) folk tale, 2B(b) short storyPrós: feelings 2A(b) DísPrós: relationships & conflict 2A(b) Dís |
| 3 | Ceist 3 | Mo ghrá-sa (idir lúibíní) or An Spailpín Fánach; optional poems | Filíocht: imagery 3A(a)(i) Mo ghrá-saFilíocht: theme 3A(b)(i) An Spailpín Fánach, 3B(a)(i), 3B(b)(i)Your own view 3A(a)(ii), 3A(b)(ii), 3B(a)(ii), 3B(b)(ii)Filíocht: technique 3A(b)(iii) metre, 3B(b)(iii) techniqueFilíocht: the poet's life & work 3A(a)(iii), 3B(a)(iii) |
| 4 | Ceist 4 | Additional texts: attitudes in An Triail, Diarmaid's fate, Mil, A ChlannNote: 4F(ii) 'explain these lines' counted as Filíocht: theme (no closer topic). | Litríocht bhreise (additional lit.) 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, 4E, 4FPrós: theme 4A An Triail, 4C Tóraíocht (fate)Prós: character 4A An Triail, 4B A Thig Ná Tit Orm, 4C DiarmaidPrós: feelings 4D GafaPrós: plot / events 4D GafaPrós: relationships & conflict 4E MilPrós: technique 4E Mil endingFilíocht: theme 4F(i) A Chlann, 4F(ii)Filíocht: technique 4F(iii) direct address |
2022 · Higher Level Paper 2 (new texts from 2027) · 5 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1A | Ceist 1 | Poet Máire Mhac an tSaoi: life, career and poetry | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5Own-words answer, 6(b) 6(b)Grammar: modh coinníollach 6(a)Grammar: briathar saor 6(a) aimsir fháistineach |
| 1B | Ceist 1 | Irish cultural identity and the traditional music revival | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5Own-words answer, 6(b) 6(b)Grammar: briathar saor 6(a) aimsir chaiteGrammar: tuiseal ginideach 6(a) ainmfhocal baininscneach uatha |
| 2 | Ceist 2 | Cáca Milis, Lasair Choille or Hurlamaboc; optional film, drama, novel | Prós: relationships & conflict 2A(a) Cáca Milis, 2A(a) An Lasair ChoillePrós: character 2A(a) An Lasair Choille, 2A(b) Hurlamaboc, 2B(a) film/dramaPrós: plot / events 2B(a) film/drama (effect on events)Prós: theme 2B(b) novel extract |
| 3 | Ceist 3 | An tEarrach Thiar or Colscaradh; optional modern poems | Filíocht: imagery 3A(a)(i) An tEarrach Thiar, 3B(a)(i) optionFilíocht: theme 3A(b)(i) Colscaradh, 3B(a)(i), 3B(b)(i)Filíocht: technique 3A(a)(ii) repetition, 3A(b)(ii) last two lines, 3B(a)(i) imagery/contrast/feelings, 3B(b)(ii) techniqueFilíocht: feelings & atmosphere 3B(a)(i) optionYour own view 3B(a)(ii)Filíocht: the poet's life & work 3A(a)(iii), 3A(b)(iii), 3B(a)(iii), 3B(b)(iii) |
| 4 | Ceist 4 | Additional texts: Pádraig's control, revenge vs love, Caoineadh Airt Uí Laoghaire | Litríocht bhreise (additional lit.) 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, 4E, 4FPrós: relationships & conflict 4A An Triail, 4D GafaPrós: character 4A An Triail, 4D Gafa, 4E Cosaint SonraíPrós: plot / events 4B A Thig Ná Tit OrmPrós: theme 4C TóraíochtFilíocht: theme 4F(i) CaoineadhFilíocht: feelings & atmosphere 4F(i)Filíocht: imagery 4F(ii) image of ArtFilíocht: technique 4F(iii) metre |
2021 · Higher Level Paper 2 (new texts from 2027) · 5 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1A | Ceist 1 | John Hume, peacemaker: life and political career | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5Own-words answer, 6(b) 6(b)Grammar: modh coinníollach 6(a)Grammar: briathar saor 6(a) aimsir chaite |
| 1B | Ceist 1 | News of 2020: Brexit, homelessness, UN, Attenborough, Irish in EU | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5Own-words answer, 6(b) 6(b)Grammar: briathar saor 6(a) aimsir fháistineachGrammar: tuiseal ginideach 6(a) ainmfhocal firinscneach uatha |
| 2 | Ceist 2 | Oisín i dTír na nÓg or Dís; optional folk tale, short story | Prós: relationships & conflict 2A(a) Oisín i dTír na nÓg, 2A(b) DísPrós: character 2A(b) Dís, 2B(a) folk talePrós: theme 2B(b) short story |
| 3 | Ceist 3 | Géibheann or An Spailpín Fánach; optional modern or old poem | Filíocht: theme 3A(a)(i) Géibheann, 3A(b)(i) An Spailpín Fánach, 3B(a)(i), 3B(b)(i)Filíocht: technique 3A(a)(i) contrast, 3A(a)(ii) title, 3A(b)(iii) metre, 3B(a)(ii) title, 3B(b)(iii) techniqueYour own view 3A(a)(ii), 3A(b)(ii), 3B(a)(ii), 3B(b)(ii)Filíocht: feelings & atmosphere 3A(b)(ii), 3B(b)(ii)Filíocht: the poet's life & work 3A(a)(iii), 3B(a)(iii) |
| 4 | Ceist 4 | Additional texts: Máire's plight, Fionn's jealousy, Eithne, ÉiceolaíNote: 4F(ii) 'explain these lines' counted as Filíocht: theme (no closer topic). | Litríocht bhreise (additional lit.) 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, 4E, 4FPrós: theme 4A An TriailPrós: plot / events 4B A Thig Ná Tit OrmPrós: character 4C Fionn, 4E Canary Wharf (Éamonn)Prós: relationships & conflict 4D GafaPrós: feelings 4D Gafa, 4E Canary WharfFilíocht: theme 4F(i) Éiceolaí, 4F(ii)Filíocht: feelings & atmosphere 4F(iii) atmosphere |
2019 · Higher Level Paper 2 (new texts from 2027) · 5 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1A | Ceist 1 | Constance Markievicz: life, politics and women in government | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5Own-words answer, 6(b) 6(b)Grammar: briathar saor 6(a) aimsir chaiteGrammar: modh coinníollach 6(a) |
| 1B | Ceist 1 | 1969 moon landing and space exploration today | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5Own-words answer, 6(b) 6(b)Grammar: briathar saor 6(a) aimsir fháistineachGrammar: tuiseal ginideach 6(a) ainmfhocal baininscneach uatha |
| 2 | Ceist 2 | Dís (Seán's wife's life and outlook) or optional short story | Prós: character 2A Dís, 2B short story |
| 3 | Ceist 3 | An tEarrach Thiar (island memories) or optional modern poemNote: (ii) 'emotion the poem stirs in you' counted as both own view and feelings. | Filíocht: theme 3A(i) An tEarrach Thiar, 3B(i)Your own view 3A(ii), 3B(ii)Filíocht: feelings & atmosphere 3A(ii), 3B(ii)Filíocht: the poet's life & work 3A(iii), 3B(iii) |
| 4 | Ceist 4 | Additional texts: blame in An Triail, conflict in Tóraíocht, ColmáinNote: 4F(ii) 'explain these lines' counted as Filíocht: theme (no closer topic). 4F(iii) significance of pigeons counted as imagery. | Litríocht bhreise (additional lit.) 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, 4E, 4FPrós: character 4A An Triail, 4E MilPrós: plot / events 4B A Thig Ná Tit OrmPrós: relationships & conflict 4C Tóraíocht, 4D GafaPrós: technique 4E Mil twist endingFilíocht: theme 4F(i) Colmáin, 4F(ii)Filíocht: imagery 4F(iii) pigeons |
2018 · Higher Level Paper 2 (new texts from 2027) · 5 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1A | Ceist 1 | History of the Irish census from 1821 to 2016 | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5Own-words answer, 6(b) 6(b)Grammar: briathar saor 6(a) aimsir fháistineachGrammar: comparison of adjectives 6(a) breischéim |
| 1B | Ceist 1 | 2018 European Year of Cultural Heritage and Irish | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5Own-words answer, 6(b) 6(b)Grammar: tuiseal ginideach 6(a) ainmfhocal firinscneach uathaGrammar: briathar saor 6(a) aimsir láithreach |
| 2 | Ceist 2 | Cáca Milis (Paul) or An Lasair Choille (Micil); optional film/drama | Prós: character 2A Cáca Milis, 2A An Lasair Choille, 2B film/dramaPrós: relationships & conflict 2A An Lasair Choille (Micil and Séamas) |
| 3 | Ceist 3 | An Spailpín Fánach (sorrow, pride, metre) or optional old poemNote: No poet's-life part this year: 3A(iii) asked for metre, 3B was an optional pre-1850 poem. | Filíocht: feelings & atmosphere 3A(i) An Spailpín FánachFilíocht: theme 3B(i)Your own view 3A(ii), 3B(ii)Filíocht: technique 3A(iii) metre, 3B(iii) technique |
| 4 | Ceist 4 | Additional texts: An Triail, Maidhc's people, Gafa, Ultan, A ChlannNote: 4F(ii) 'explain these lines' counted as Filíocht: theme (no closer topic). | Litríocht bhreise (additional lit.) 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, 4E, 4FPrós: theme 4A An TriailPrós: character 4B, 4C Aonghus and Muadhán, 4E Saineolaí TeicneolaíPrós: relationships & conflict 4D GafaPrós: feelings 4D GafaFilíocht: theme 4F(i) A Chlann, 4F(ii)Filíocht: feelings & atmosphere 4F(i)Filíocht: technique 4F(iii) titleYour own view 4F(iii) title |
2017 · Higher Level Paper 2 (new texts from 2027) · 5 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1A | Ceist 1 | TG4 at twenty: history and future of Irish-language television | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5Own-words answer, 6(b) 6(b)Grammar: briathar saor 6(a) aimsir láithreachGrammar: verb tenses 6(a) aimsir fháistineach |
| 1B | Ceist 1 | Syrian civil war and the refugee crisis | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5Own-words answer, 6(b) 6(b)Grammar: modh coinníollach 6(a)Grammar: tuiseal ginideach 6(a) ainmfhocal firinscneach uatha |
| 2 | Ceist 2 | Prescribed Hurlamaboc (Lisín in control) or optional novel extract | Prós: character 2A Hurlamaboc, 2B novel extract |
| 3 | Ceist 3 | Géibheann (contrast, imagery) or optional modern poem theme | Filíocht: imagery 3A(i) GéibheannFilíocht: technique 3A(i) Géibheann contrastFilíocht: theme 3B(i)Your own view 3A(ii), 3B(ii)Filíocht: the poet's life & work 3A(iii), 3B(iii) |
| 4 | Ceist 4 | Additional texts: Pádraig, Maidhc, Diarmaid, Gafa, Cosaint Sonraí, ÉiceolaíNote: 4F(ii) 'explain these lines' counted as Filíocht: theme (no closer topic). | Litríocht bhreise (additional lit.) 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, 4E, 4FPrós: character 4A An Triail, 4B, 4C, 4E Cosaint SonraíPrós: relationships & conflict 4D Gafa, 4E Cosaint SonraíFilíocht: theme 4F(i) Éiceolaí, 4F(iii)Filíocht: technique 4F(i) contrastFilíocht: feelings & atmosphere 4F(ii) |
Ordinary Level Paper 1: questions per topic
Each number is how many of that year's questions needed the topic. 63 questions in all.
| 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cluastuiscint (aural) | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 27 |
| Theme: sport & pastimes | 2 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 13 |
| Theme: young people & education | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 12 |
| Giota leanúnach / blag (short essay or blog) | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 9 |
| Scéal (story) | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 9 |
| Litir / ríomhphost (letter or email) | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 9 |
| Comhrá (dialogue) | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 9 |
| Theme: holidays & travel | 1 | – | 3 | 1 | – | 1 | – | 1 | 1 | 8 |
| Theme: family, friends & home | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | – | – | – | 2 | 8 |
| Theme: technology & media | – | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | – | 1 | 1 | 1 | 8 |
| Theme: work, money & housing | – | 1 | – | – | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 6 |
| Theme: health & wellbeing | 1 | – | – | 1 | – | – | – | – | – | 2 |
| Theme: society & equality | – | – | – | – | – | 1 | – | – | – | 1 |
| Theme: Irish language & culture | – | – | – | – | – | – | 1 | – | – | 1 |
| Theme: environment & climate | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | 1 | – | 1 |
Ordinary Level Paper 1, question by question
2026 · Ordinary Level Paper 1 · 7 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| IA | Cuid I | Two notices: coffee-truck barista job; college scheme with grant | Cluastuiscint (aural) Fógra 1, Fógra 2 |
| IB | Cuid I | Two conversations: injury ruins France holiday; music championship and concerts | Cluastuiscint (aural) Comhrá 1, Comhrá 2 |
| IC | Cuid I | News items: TG4 soap Ros na Rún; first national youth clubs night | Cluastuiscint (aural) Píosa 1, Píosa 2 |
| IIA | Cuid II | Short essay/blog options: important person, favourite pastime, great holidayNote: (i) filed under family, friends & home as nearest. | Giota leanúnach / blag (short essay or blog) (i), (ii), (iii)Theme: family, friends & home (i) important person in my lifeTheme: sport & pastimes (ii) favourite pastimeTheme: holidays & travel (iii) great holiday |
| IIB | Cuid II | Story openings: angry at a text; manager says you got job | Scéal (story) (i), (ii)Theme: work, money & housing (ii) got the job |
| IIC | Cuid II | Letter/email: moved to new house and area; club fashion-show fundraiser | Litir / ríomhphost (letter or email) (i), (ii)Theme: family, friends & home (i) new house and areaTheme: sport & pastimes (ii) sports club fundraiser |
| IID | Cuid II | Dialogue: phones allowed in school; disagreeing about Netflix series | Comhrá (dialogue) (i), (ii)Theme: technology & media (i) phones in school, (ii) Netflix seriesTheme: young people & education (i) phones in school |
2025 · Ordinary Level Paper 1 · 7 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| IA | Cuid I | Two notices: new radio music programme; teachers seeking students for project | Cluastuiscint (aural) Fógra 1, Fógra 2 |
| IB | Cuid I | Two conversations: instructor job and club fees; family visit to Sydney | Cluastuiscint (aural) Comhrá 1, Comhrá 2 |
| IC | Cuid I | Two news items: deposit return recycling scheme; Gael Linn archive | Cluastuiscint (aural) Píosa 1, Píosa 2 |
| IIA | Cuid II | Short essay/blog options: shopping, an interesting place, sports starNote: (i) shopping fits no theme; (ii) filed under holidays & travel as nearest. | Giota leanúnach / blag (short essay or blog) (i), (ii), (iii)Theme: holidays & travel (ii) an interesting placeTheme: sport & pastimes (iii) sports personality I like |
| IIB | Cuid II | Story openings: got two concert tickets; day my life changedNote: No obvious theme in either opening. | Scéal (story) (i), (ii) |
| IIC | Cuid II | Letter/email: Student Council events; snowed in for daysNote: (ii) snow filed under environment & climate as nearest (weather). | Litir / ríomhphost (letter or email) (i), (ii)Theme: young people & education (i) Student Council eventsTheme: environment & climate (ii) heavy snowfall |
| IID | Cuid II | Dialogue: friend disagrees about online blog; parents and part-time job hours | Comhrá (dialogue) (i), (ii)Theme: technology & media (i) online blogTheme: work, money & housing (ii) part-time job in exam yearTheme: young people & education (ii) part-time job in exam year |
2024 · Ordinary Level Paper 1 · 7 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| IA | Cuid I | Two notices: school Gaelbhratach Irish committee; stadium museum and tour | Cluastuiscint (aural) Fógra 1, Fógra 2 |
| IB | Cuid I | Two conversations: holiday, refugees and weather; sleep-out for homelessness charity | Cluastuiscint (aural) Comhrá 1, Comhrá 2 |
| IC | Cuid I | News items: children's online safety, screen time; TV series Bláth na hÓige | Cluastuiscint (aural) Píosa 1, Píosa 2 |
| IIA | Cuid II | Short essay/blog options: music star, sixth-year life, local eventNote: (iii) event in my area fits no theme. Music/concert/celebrity options filed under sport & pastimes; TV, film, phones, online under technology & media. | Giota leanúnach / blag (short essay or blog) (i), (ii), (iii)Theme: sport & pastimes (i) music personality I likeTheme: young people & education (ii) life in sixth year |
| IIB | Cuid II | Story openings: awaited email from manager; wrong train station at nightNote: No obvious theme; (i) manager's email could be job or team news. | Scéal (story) (i), (ii) |
| IIC | Cuid II | Letter/email: Seachtain na Gaeilge events; summer part-time job and wages | Litir / ríomhphost (letter or email) (i), (ii)Theme: Irish language & culture (i) Seachtain na GaeilgeTheme: work, money & housing (ii) part-time job, spending wages |
| IID | Cuid II | Dialogue: auditioning for local film; parents unhappy about too little study | Comhrá (dialogue) (i), (ii)Theme: technology & media (i) film being made locallyTheme: young people & education (ii) not studying |
2023 · Ordinary Level Paper 1 · 7 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| IA | Cuid I | Two radio notices: online Irish book club; university open day and tour | Cluastuiscint (aural) Fógra 1, Fógra 2 |
| IB | Cuid I | Two conversations: beach clean-up and litter; Spanish course in Madrid | Cluastuiscint (aural) Comhrá 1, Comhrá 2 |
| IC | Cuid I | Two news items: Irish podcast awards; death of Pelé | Cluastuiscint (aural) Píosa 1, Píosa 2 |
| IIA | Cuid II | Short essay/blog options: favourite place, things that sadden me, great presentNote: Only (i) fits a theme (nearest: holidays & travel); (ii) and (iii) fit none. | Giota leanúnach / blag (short essay or blog) (i), (ii), (iii)Theme: holidays & travel (i) my favourite place in the world |
| IIB | Cuid II | Story openings: phone rings as you leave; refused entry to discoNote: No obvious theme in either opening. | Scéal (story) (i), (ii) |
| IIC | Cuid II | Letter/email: school fundraising concert; new family from abroad in areaNote: Music/concert/celebrity options filed under sport & pastimes; TV, film, phones, online under technology & media. | Litir / ríomhphost (letter or email) (i), (ii)Theme: sport & pastimes (i) school concertTheme: society & equality (ii) immigrant family's life here |
| IID | Cuid II | Dialogue: parents and spending part-time wages; CAO offers with friend | Comhrá (dialogue) (i), (ii)Theme: work, money & housing (i) part-time job, saving moneyTheme: young people & education (ii) CAO offers |
2022 · Ordinary Level Paper 1 · 7 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| IA | Cuid I | Two radio notices: sports presenter job; school green week events | Cluastuiscint (aural) Fógra 1, Fógra 2 |
| IB | Cuid I | Two conversations: driving test and lessons; designer coat and online shopping | Cluastuiscint (aural) Comhrá 1, Comhrá 2 |
| IC | Cuid I | Two news items: Housing for All homelessness policy; film Arracht and actor | Cluastuiscint (aural) Píosa 1, Píosa 2 |
| IIA | Cuid II | Short essay/blog options: my friends, favourite season, summer jobNote: (ii) favourite season fits no theme. | Giota leanúnach / blag (short essay or blog) (i), (ii), (iii)Theme: family, friends & home (i) my friendsTheme: work, money & housing (iii) summer job |
| IIB | Cuid II | Story openings: all friends waiting in room; strange light in woodsNote: No obvious theme in either opening. | Scéal (story) (i), (ii) |
| IIC | Cuid II | Letter/email: joining new local club; award at school celebration | Litir / ríomhphost (letter or email) (i), (ii)Theme: sport & pastimes (i) new club in areaTheme: young people & education (ii) school end-of-year award |
| IID | Cuid II | Dialogue: friend hates school uniform; parents unhappy with your Instagram | Comhrá (dialogue) (i), (ii)Theme: young people & education (i) school uniformTheme: technology & media (ii) Instagram account |
2021 · Ordinary Level Paper 1 · 7 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| IA | Cuid I | Two radio notices: university job needing Irish; 1919-21 writing competition | Cluastuiscint (aural) Fógra 1, Fógra 2 |
| IB | Cuid I | Two conversations: family holiday on Tory Island; acting in musical Oliver | Cluastuiscint (aural) Comhrá 1, Comhrá 2 |
| IC | Cuid I | Two news items: new English-Irish dictionary; World Food Programme award | Cluastuiscint (aural) Píosa 1, Píosa 2 |
| IIA | Cuid II | Short essay/blog options: sports event, person I admire, where I liveNote: (ii) person I admire fits no theme. | Giota leanúnach / blag (short essay or blog) (i), (ii), (iii)Theme: sport & pastimes (i) sporting occasion I enjoyedTheme: family, friends & home (iii) where I live |
| IIB | Cuid II | Story openings: text says you won radio prize; friend collapses running | Scéal (story) (i), (ii)Theme: health & wellbeing (ii) friend fainted while running |
| IIC | Cuid II | Letter/email: week at seaside holiday centre; weekend at music festivalNote: Music/concert/celebrity options filed under sport & pastimes; TV, film, phones, online under technology & media. | Litir / ríomhphost (letter or email) (i), (ii)Theme: holidays & travel (i) seaside holiday centreTheme: sport & pastimes (ii) music festival |
| IID | Cuid II | Dialogue: sad versus happy to leave school; cinema versus Netflix | Comhrá (dialogue) (i), (ii)Theme: young people & education (i) leaving secondary schoolTheme: technology & media (ii) Netflix vs cinema |
2019 · Ordinary Level Paper 1 · 7 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| IA | Cuid I | Two radio notices: video competition; farmers' meeting after bad spring weather | Cluastuiscint (aural) Fógra 1, Fógra 2 |
| IB | Cuid I | Two conversations: summer work and greenways; Leaving Cert points, starting university | Cluastuiscint (aural) Comhrá 1, Comhrá 2 |
| IC | Cuid I | Two news items: Fanad lighthouse bicentenary; All-Ireland final, Brian Fenton award | Cluastuiscint (aural) Píosa 1, Píosa 2 |
| IIA | Cuid II | Short essay/blog options: last summer, loving my school, free timeNote: (i) last summer filed under holidays & travel as nearest fit. | Giota leanúnach / blag (short essay or blog) (i), (ii), (iii)Theme: holidays & travel (i) how I spent last summerTheme: young people & education (ii) I love my schoolTheme: sport & pastimes (iii) free-time activities |
| IIB | Cuid II | Story openings: passport missing at airport; going on stage at talent show | Scéal (story) (i), (ii)Theme: holidays & travel (i) Paris trip, airport |
| IIC | Cuid II | Letter/email: birthday meal and present; camping holiday with friend | Litir / ríomhphost (letter or email) (i), (ii)Theme: family, friends & home (i) family birthday mealTheme: holidays & travel (ii) campsite holiday |
| IID | Cuid II | Dialogue: asking parents for post-exam party; online versus city shopping | Comhrá (dialogue) (i), (ii)Theme: family, friends & home (i) party, parentsTheme: technology & media (ii) online shopping |
2018 · Ordinary Level Paper 1 · 7 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| IA | Cuid I | Two radio notices: Culture Night events; community fundraiser after storm damage | Cluastuiscint (aural) Fógra 1, Fógra 2 |
| IB | Cuid I | Two conversations: students volunteering with elderly; Polish family's life in Ireland | Cluastuiscint (aural) Comhrá 1, Comhrá 2 |
| IC | Cuid I | Two news items: life of Caitlín Nic an Ultaigh; Leo Varadkar course | Cluastuiscint (aural) Píosa 1, Píosa 2 |
| IIA | Cuid II | Short essay/blog options: favourite TV programme, winter, loving SaturdaysNote: (ii) winter fits no theme. | Giota leanúnach / blag (short essay or blog) (i), (ii), (iii)Theme: technology & media (i) TV programme I likeTheme: sport & pastimes (iii) I love Saturday |
| IIB | Cuid II | Story openings: forgotten concert ticket; victory party after match | Scéal (story) (i), (ii)Theme: sport & pastimes (ii) won the match |
| IIC | Cuid II | Letter/email to friend: summer job in London; new mobile phone | Litir / ríomhphost (letter or email) (i), (ii)Theme: work, money & housing (i) summer job in LondonTheme: technology & media (ii) new mobile phone |
| IID | Cuid II | Dialogue: parents after principal's call about rules; friend dislikes your area | Comhrá (dialogue) (i), (ii)Theme: young people & education (i) broke school rulesTheme: family, friends & home (ii) home area |
2017 · Ordinary Level Paper 1 · 7 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| IA | Cuid I | Two radio notices: Irish-language job vacancy; information day in Tralee | Cluastuiscint (aural) Fógra 1, Fógra 2 |
| IB | Cuid I | Two conversations: student's exam and mother; Brussels visit, summer job | Cluastuiscint (aural) Comhrá 1, Comhrá 2 |
| IC | Cuid I | Two news items: Fíbín theatre company; Robbie Keane retires internationally | Cluastuiscint (aural) Píosa 1, Píosa 2 |
| IIA | Cuid II | Short essay/blog options: things that anger me, competition won, sports eventNote: (i) things that make me angry fits no theme. | Giota leanúnach / blag (short essay or blog) (i), (ii), (iii)Theme: sport & pastimes (ii) competition I won, (iii) big sporting occasion |
| IIB | Cuid II | Story openings: birthday card surprise; knocking on principal's door | Scéal (story) (i), (ii)Theme: young people & education (ii) principal's office |
| IIC | Cuid II | Letter/email to friend: off school after accident; week in Spain | Litir / ríomhphost (letter or email) (i), (ii)Theme: health & wellbeing (i) accident, off schoolTheme: holidays & travel (ii) holiday in Spain |
| IID | Cuid II | Dialogue: parents refuse party permission; friend dislikes your favourite singerNote: Music/concert/celebrity options filed under sport & pastimes; TV, film, phones, online under technology & media. | Comhrá (dialogue) (i), (ii)Theme: family, friends & home (i) party, parentsTheme: sport & pastimes (ii) famous singer/musician |
Ordinary Level Paper 2 (new texts from 2027): questions per topic
Each number is how many of that year's questions needed the topic. 36 questions in all.
| 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Léamhthuiscint (reading) | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 18 |
| Your own view | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 12 |
| Prós: plot / events | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 9 |
| Prós: character | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 9 |
| Prós: relationships & conflict | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 9 |
| Filíocht: theme | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 9 |
| Filíocht: imagery | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 9 |
| Filíocht: feelings & atmosphere | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 9 |
| Prós: theme | 1 | – | – | 1 | – | – | 1 | 1 | 1 | 5 |
| Prós: feelings | 1 | – | – | – | 1 | – | 1 | – | – | 3 |
Ordinary Level Paper 2 (new texts from 2027), question by question
2026 · Ordinary Level Paper 2 (new texts from 2027) · 4 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1A | Ceist 1 (Léamhthuiscint A) | Ráth Chairn Gaeltacht, Co. Meath: history, co-op, crafts, festivals | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1(a), 1(b), 2(a), 2(b), 3(a), 3(b), 4(a), 4(b), 5(a), 5(b) |
| 1B | Ceist 1 (Léamhthuiscint B) | The Corrs: family band's career, albums, tours and charity work | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1(a), 1(b), 2(a), 2(b), 3(a), 3(b), 4(a), 4(b), 5(a), 5(b) |
| 2 | Ceist 2 (Prós) | Prescribed: Cáca Milis or An Lasair Choille, Dís, Hurlamaboc; optional prose | Prós: plot / events 2A(a)(i)-(iv) Cáca Milis, 2A(a)(i)-(iv) An Lasair Choille, 2A(b) Dís (the conversation after the survey visit), 2B(a) film/play, 2B(b) short story, 2B(c) novel extractPrós: character 2A(a)(v) Cáca Milis (Catherine) / An Lasair Choille (Míoda), 2A(c)(i)-(v) Hurlamaboc (Lisín, Pól, Ruán), 2B(c) novel extract main characterPrós: relationships & conflict 2A(a)(iii) An Lasair Choille (why Míoda leaves her father), 2A(b) Dís (Seán and his wife)Prós: theme 2B(b) short storyYour own view 2A(a)(v) Cáca Milis / An Lasair Choille (do you like her), 2A(c)(v) Hurlamaboc (do you like Lisín) |
| 3 | Ceist 3 (Filíocht) | Prescribed: Géibheann, An tEarrach Thiar, An Spailpín Fánach; or optional poemsNote: Recall of what a verse says is counted under 'Filíocht: theme' (the list has no 'poem content' topic). | Filíocht: theme 3A(a)(i) Géibheann, 3A(b)(i) An tEarrach Thiar, 3A(c)(ii) An Spailpín Fánach (hiring fair), 3B(a)(i), 3B(b)(i), 3B(c)(i) pre-1850 poemFilíocht: imagery 3A(a)(ii) Géibheann, 3A(b)(ii) An tEarrach Thiar, 3A(c)(i) An Spailpín Fánach, 3B(a)(iii) favourite image, 3B(b)(ii), 3B(c)(ii) favourite imageFilíocht: feelings & atmosphere 3A(a)(iii) Géibheann (is the animal content), 3B(a)(ii), 3B(c)(iii) atmosphereYour own view 3A(b)(iii) An tEarrach Thiar, 3A(c)(iii) An Spailpín Fánach (sympathy), 3B(a)(iii) favourite image, 3B(b)(iii), 3B(c)(ii) favourite image |
2025 · Ordinary Level Paper 2 (new texts from 2027) · 4 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1A | Ceist 1 (Léamhthuiscint A) | Ireland at the Paris 2024 Olympics and Paralympics | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1(a), 1(b), 2(a), 2(b), 3(a), 3(b), 4(a), 4(b), 5(a), 5(b) |
| 1B | Ceist 1 (Léamhthuiscint B) | Phoenix Park, Dublin: history, buildings, zoo, events, deer | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1(a), 1(b), 2(a), 2(b), 3(a), 3(b), 4(a), 4(b), 5(a), 5(b) |
| 2 | Ceist 2 (Prós) | Prescribed: Dís, Oisín i dTír na nÓg, Hurlamaboc; optional proseNote: 2A had one long 25-mark question per text, no short parts. | Prós: relationships & conflict 2A(a) Dís (Seán and his wife's conversation)Prós: plot / events 2A(b) Oisín i dTír na nÓg (his life after leaving the Fianna), 2B(a) short story, 2B(b) folk talePrós: character 2A(c) Hurlamaboc (Lisín's life since her wedding), 2B(b) folk tale main characterPrós: theme 2B(c) novel extract |
| 3 | Ceist 3 (Filíocht) | Prescribed: Mo ghrá-sa, An tEarrach Thiar, Colscaradh; or optional modern poemsNote: Recall of what a verse says is counted under 'Filíocht: theme' (the list has no 'poem content' topic). | Filíocht: theme 3A(a)(i),(ii) Mo ghrá-sa, 3A(b)(ii) An tEarrach Thiar, 3A(c)(i),(ii) Colscaradh, 3B(a)(i), 3B(b)(i), 3B(c)(i)Filíocht: imagery 3A(a)(iii) Mo ghrá-sa, 3A(b)(i),(iii) An tEarrach Thiar, 3B(a)(ii) interesting image, 3B(c)(ii)Filíocht: feelings & atmosphere 3B(a)(iii) atmosphere, 3B(b)(ii)Your own view 3A(c)(iii) Colscaradh, 3B(b)(iii) what you like most, 3B(c)(iii) |
2024 · Ordinary Level Paper 2 (new texts from 2027) · 4 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1A | Ceist 1 (Léamhthuiscint A) | The Great Blasket Centre: island life, Peig Sayers, visiting scholars | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1(a), 1(b), 2(a), 2(b), 3(a), 3(b), 4(a), 4(b), 5(a), 5(b) |
| 1B | Ceist 1 (Léamhthuiscint B) | Fast fashion: workers, environmental harm, second-hand clothes, Junk Kouture | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1(a), 1(b), 2(a), 2(b), 3(a), 3(b), 4(a), 4(b), 5(a), 5(b) |
| 2 | Ceist 2 (Prós) | Prescribed: Dís, Oisín, Cáca Milis or An Lasair Choille; optional prose | Prós: plot / events 2A(a)(ii),(iv) Dís, 2A(b)(i),(ii),(iv),(v) Oisín i dTír na nÓg, 2A(c) Cáca Milis / An Lasair Choille (events to the end), 2B(b) folk tale, 2B(c) film/playPrós: character 2A(a)(iii) Dís (the survey woman), 2A(a)(v) Dís (Seán), 2B(b) folk tale main characterPrós: relationships & conflict 2A(a)(i) Dís (why the wife was unhappy with Seán)Prós: feelings 2A(b)(iii) Oisín (why he was sad leaving)Prós: theme 2B(a) short storyYour own view 2A(a)(v) Dís (did you like Seán) |
| 3 | Ceist 3 (Filíocht) | Prescribed: Colscaradh, An Spailpín Fánach, Géibheann; or optional poemsNote: Recall of what a verse says is counted under 'Filíocht: theme' (the list has no 'poem content' topic). Spailpín (iii) 'what kind of person is the spailpín' also counted as theme. | Filíocht: theme 3A(a)(i),(ii) Colscaradh, 3A(b)(i)-(iii) An Spailpín Fánach, 3A(c)(i) Géibheann, 3B(a)(i), 3B(b)(i) pre-1850 poem, 3B(c)(i)Filíocht: imagery 3A(c)(ii) Géibheann, 3B(a)(ii) favourite image, 3B(b)(ii), 3B(c)(ii) favourite imageFilíocht: feelings & atmosphere 3A(a)(iii) Colscaradh, 3B(a)(iii), 3B(b)(iii) atmosphereYour own view 3A(c)(iii) Géibheann, 3B(a)(ii) favourite image, 3B(c)(ii) favourite image, (iii) |
2023 · Ordinary Level Paper 2 (new texts from 2027) · 4 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1A | Ceist 1 (Léamhthuiscint A) | Rugby player Johnny Sexton: early years, Ireland career, highs and lows | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1(a), 1(b), 2(a), 2(b), 3(a), 3(b), 4(a), 4(b), 5(a), 5(b) |
| 1B | Ceist 1 (Léamhthuiscint B) | Big news stories of 2022: the Queen, Covid, films, transport | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1(a), 1(b), 2(a), 2(b), 3(a), 3(b), 4(a), 4(b), 5(a), 5(b) |
| 2 | Ceist 2 (Prós) | Prescribed: Hurlamaboc, Oisín, Cáca Milis or An Lasair Choille; optional prose | Prós: character 2A(a)(i)-(v) Hurlamaboc (Lisín, sons, Pól), 2A(c) An Lasair Choille (Séamas's life), 2B(b) folk tale main character's lifePrós: plot / events 2A(a)(i),(ii) Hurlamaboc (the party), 2A(b) Oisín i dTír na nÓg (his life from leaving to the end), 2A(c) Cáca Milis (events on the train), 2B(a) novel extract, 2B(c) film/playPrós: relationships & conflict 2A(c) An Lasair Choille (Séamas caring for Micil) |
| 3 | Ceist 3 (Filíocht) | Prescribed: Géibheann, An tEarrach Thiar, Mo ghrá-sa; or optional modern poemsNote: Recall of what a verse says is counted under 'Filíocht: theme' (the list has no 'poem content' topic). | Filíocht: imagery 3A(a)(i) Géibheann, 3A(b)(i) An tEarrach Thiar, 3A(c)(ii) Mo ghrá-sa, 3B(a)(ii) favourite image, 3B(c)(ii) favourite imageFilíocht: theme 3A(a)(ii) Géibheann, 3A(b)(ii) An tEarrach Thiar, 3A(c)(i) Mo ghrá-sa, 3B(a)(i), 3B(b)(i), 3B(c)(i)Filíocht: feelings & atmosphere 3A(a)(iii) Géibheann, 3A(b)(iii) An tEarrach Thiar (did the poet like island life), 3B(a)(iii), 3B(b)(ii) atmosphereYour own view 3A(c)(iii) Mo ghrá-sa, 3B(a)(ii) favourite image, 3B(b)(iii) one like, one dislike, 3B(c)(ii) favourite image, (iii) |
2022 · Ordinary Level Paper 2 (new texts from 2027) · 4 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1A | Ceist 1 (Léamhthuiscint A) | History of No. 6 Harcourt Street, Dublin, from 1786 to today | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1(a), 1(b), 2(a), 2(b), 3(a), 3(b), 4(a), 4(b), 5(a), 5(b) |
| 1B | Ceist 1 (Léamhthuiscint B) | Music in our lives: film, Live Aid, harp, Fleadh, streaming | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1(a), 1(b), 2(a), 2(b), 3(a), 3(b), 4(a), 4(b), 5(a), 5(b) |
| 2 | Roinn na Litríochta – Ceist 2 (Prós) | Prescribed: Oisín i dTír na nÓg, Hurlamaboc, Dís; optional proseNote: Literature was optional in 2021-22: any two 25-mark questions from 2A/2B/3A/3B, so a candidate could skip this question. | Prós: plot / events 2A(a)(i),(ii),(iv),(v) Oisín i dTír na nÓg, 2B(a) folk tale, 2B(c) short storyPrós: feelings 2A(a)(iii) Oisín (why he was sad), 2A(c) Dís (why the wife was unhappy)Prós: character 2A(b) Hurlamaboc (Lisín and her life), 2A(c) Dís (the wife's life), 2B(b) novel extract main character, 2B(c) short story main characterPrós: relationships & conflict 2A(c) Dís (the wife's unhappiness in her marriage) |
| 3 | Roinn na Litríochta – Ceist 3 (Filíocht) | Prescribed: An tEarrach Thiar, Colscaradh, An Spailpín Fánach; optional poemsNote: Literature was optional in 2021-22: any two 25-mark questions from 2A/2B/3A/3B, so a candidate could skip this question. Recall of what a verse says is counted under 'Filíocht: theme' (the list has no 'poem content' topic). | Filíocht: theme 3A(a)(i) An tEarrach Thiar, 3A(b)(ii) Colscaradh, 3A(c)(i),(ii) An Spailpín Fánach, 3B(a)(i), 3B(b)(i), 3B(c)(i) pre-1850 poemFilíocht: imagery 3A(a)(ii) An tEarrach Thiar, 3A(b)(i) Colscaradh, 3B(a)(ii) favourite image, 3B(c)(ii) interesting imageFilíocht: feelings & atmosphere 3A(a)(iii) An tEarrach Thiar (is the poet content), 3A(b)(iii) Colscaradh, 3B(a)(iii), 3B(b)(ii) atmosphereYour own view 3A(c)(iii) An Spailpín Fánach, 3B(a)(ii) favourite image, 3B(b)(iii) one like, one dislike, 3B(c)(iii) |
2021 · Ordinary Level Paper 2 (new texts from 2027) · 4 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1A | Ceist 1 (Léamhthuiscint A) | New technology and Irish: internet, social media, TG4, online resources | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1(a), 1(b), 2(a), 2(b), 3(a), 3(b), 4(a), 4(b), 5(a), 5(b) |
| 1B | Ceist 1 (Léamhthuiscint B) | Irish sport in 2020: Bennett, Taylor, Dublin footballers, Bloody Sunday | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1(a), 1(b), 2(a), 2(b), 3(a), 3(b), 4(a), 4(b), 5(a), 5(b) |
| 2 | Roinn na Litríochta – Ceist 2 (Prós) | Prescribed: Hurlamaboc, Cáca Milis or An Lasair Choille, Dís; optional proseNote: Literature was optional in 2021-22: any two 25-mark questions from 2A/2B/3A/3B, so a candidate could skip this question. | Prós: character 2A(a)(i)-(v) Hurlamaboc (Lisín, Pól, neighbours), 2A(b) An Lasair Choille (Séamas's life), 2B(a) novel extract main characterPrós: plot / events 2A(a)(ii) Hurlamaboc (party preparations), 2A(b) Cáca Milis (events on the train), 2B(a) novel extract, 2B(b) film/playPrós: relationships & conflict 2A(b) An Lasair Choille (Séamas and Micil), 2A(c) Dís (Seán and his wife's conversation)Prós: theme 2B(c) short story |
| 3 | Roinn na Litríochta – Ceist 3 (Filíocht) | Prescribed: An Spailpín Fánach, Mo ghrá-sa, Géibheann; optional poemsNote: Literature was optional in 2021-22: any two 25-mark questions from 2A/2B/3A/3B, so a candidate could skip this question. Recall of what a verse says is counted under 'Filíocht: theme' (the list has no 'poem content' topic). | Filíocht: imagery 3A(a)(i) An Spailpín Fánach, 3B(a)(ii) favourite image, 3B(b)(ii) interesting imageFilíocht: theme 3A(a)(ii) An Spailpín Fánach, 3A(b)(i)-(iii) Mo ghrá-sa, 3A(c)(i) Géibheann, 3B(a)(i) pre-1850 poem, 3B(b)(i), 3B(c)(i)Filíocht: feelings & atmosphere 3A(a)(iii) An Spailpín Fánach (his feelings at the hiring fair), 3A(c)(ii) Géibheann, 3B(a)(iii), 3B(b)(iii), 3B(c)(ii) atmosphereYour own view 3A(c)(iii) Géibheann, 3B(a)(ii) favourite image, 3B(c)(iii) |
2019 · Ordinary Level Paper 2 (new texts from 2027) · 4 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1A | Ceist 1 (Léamhthuiscint A) | President Michael D. Higgins: powers, career, state visits, vision | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1(a), 1(b), 2(a), 2(b), 3(a), 3(b), 4(a), 4(b), 5(a), 5(b) |
| 1B | Ceist 1 (Léamhthuiscint B) | The Oireachtas festival: competitions, media awards, TG4 and RnaG | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1(a), 1(b), 2(a), 2(b), 3(a), 3(b), 4(a), 4(b), 5(a), 5(b) |
| 2 | Ceist 2 (Prós) | Prescribed: Hurlamaboc, Cáca Milis or An Lasair Choille; optional prose | Prós: character 2A(a)(i)-(v) Hurlamaboc (Ruán, Lisín, Pól, neighbours), 2A(b) An Lasair Choille (Séamas's life), 2B(a) novel extract main characterPrós: plot / events 2A(a)(ii) Hurlamaboc (party preparations), 2A(b) Cáca Milis (events on the train), 2B(a) novel extract, 2B(b) film/playPrós: relationships & conflict 2A(b) An Lasair Choille (Séamas caring for Micil) |
| 3 | Ceist 3 (Filíocht) | Prescribed: An Spailpín Fánach, Colscaradh; optional older and modern poemNote: Recall of what a verse says is counted under 'Filíocht: theme' (the list has no 'poem content' topic). Colscaradh (i) 'what kind of person is the man' also counted as theme. | Filíocht: imagery 3A(a)(i) An Spailpín Fánach, 3B(a)(ii) favourite imageFilíocht: theme 3A(a)(ii) An Spailpín Fánach (hiring fair), 3A(b)(i),(ii) Colscaradh, 3B(a)(i) pre-1850 poem, 3B(b)(i) modern poemFilíocht: feelings & atmosphere 3B(a)(iii), 3B(b)(ii) atmosphereYour own view 3A(a)(iii) An Spailpín Fánach (sympathy), 3A(b)(iii) Colscaradh, 3B(a)(ii) favourite image, 3B(b)(iii) |
2018 · Ordinary Level Paper 2 (new texts from 2027) · 4 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1A | Ceist 1 (Léamhthuiscint A) | Ireland after the recession: sport, education, Irish language, Brexit | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1(a), 1(b), 2(a), 2(b), 3(a), 3(b), 4(a), 4(b), 5(a), 5(b) |
| 1B | Ceist 1 (Léamhthuiscint B) | RTÉ journalist Caitríona Perry: Washington career, Trump, her book | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1(a), 1(b), 2(a), 2(b), 3(a), 3(b), 4(a), 4(b), 5(a), 5(b) |
| 2 | Ceist 2 (Prós) | Prescribed: Oisín i dTír na nÓg, Dís; optional folk tale, short story | Prós: plot / events 2A(a)(i)-(v) Oisín i dTír na nÓg, 2B(a) folk tale, 2B(b) short storyPrós: relationships & conflict 2A(b) Dís (Seán and his wife discuss the survey)Prós: character 2B(a) folk tale main character |
| 3 | Ceist 3 (Filíocht) | Prescribed: Mo ghrá-sa, Géibheann; or two optional modern poemsNote: Recall of what a verse says is counted under 'Filíocht: theme' (the list has no 'poem content' topic). Mo ghrá-sa (i)(c),(d) on the eyes and hair could also be read as imagery. | Filíocht: theme 3A(a)(i) Mo ghrá-sa, 3A(b)(iii) Géibheann, 3B(a)(i), 3B(b)(i)Filíocht: feelings & atmosphere 3A(a)(ii) Mo ghrá-sa, 3A(b)(i) Géibheann, 3B(a)(ii), 3B(b)(iii) atmosphereFilíocht: imagery 3A(b)(ii) Géibheann, 3B(b)(ii) favourite imageYour own view 3A(a)(iii) Mo ghrá-sa, 3B(a)(iii), 3B(b)(ii) favourite image |
2017 · Ordinary Level Paper 2 (new texts from 2027) · 4 questions
| Q | Section | What it asks (our summary) | Topics, with the parts that need them |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1A | Ceist 1 (Léamhthuiscint A) | Tourism in Ireland: Wild Atlantic Way, Skellig Michael, Blue Flags | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1(a), 1(b), 2(a), 2(b), 3(a), 3(b), 4(a), 4(b), 5(a), 5(b) |
| 1B | Ceist 1 (Léamhthuiscint B) | Folk-fusion band Kíla: beginnings, busking, musical style, recent work | Léamhthuiscint (reading) 1(a), 1(b), 2(a), 2(b), 3(a), 3(b), 4(a), 4(b), 5(a), 5(b) |
| 2 | Ceist 2 (Prós) | Prescribed: Cáca Milis or An Lasair Choille, Hurlamaboc; optional proseNote: 2B(a) asks for the character you like most, but the marks are for the events; not counted as 'Your own view'. | Prós: plot / events 2A(a)(i)-(iv) Cáca Milis, 2A(a)(i),(ii),(iv) An Lasair Choille, 2B(a) film/play, 2B(b) novel extractPrós: character 2A(a)(ii) Cáca Milis (Paul), 2A(b) Hurlamaboc (Lisín), 2B(a) character you like mostPrós: relationships & conflict 2A(a)(iii),(iv) An Lasair Choille (Míoda and her father)Prós: feelings 2A(b) Hurlamaboc (why Lisín was happy)Prós: theme 2B(b) novel extractYour own view 2A(a)(v) Cáca Milis (sympathy for Paul), 2A(a)(v) An Lasair Choille (sympathy for Séamas) |
| 3 | Ceist 3 (Filíocht) | Prescribed: Colscaradh, An tEarrach Thiar; or two optional modern poemsNote: Recall of what a verse says is counted under 'Filíocht: theme' (the list has no 'poem content' topic). | Filíocht: theme 3A(a)(i),(ii),(iii)(a) Colscaradh, 3A(b)(i) An tEarrach Thiar, 3B(a)(i), 3B(b)(i)Filíocht: imagery 3A(b)(ii) An tEarrach Thiar, 3B(a)(ii) favourite imageFilíocht: feelings & atmosphere 3A(b)(iii) An tEarrach Thiar, 3B(a)(iii) atmosphere, 3B(b)(ii)Your own view 3A(a)(iii)(b) Colscaradh (is the solution satisfactory), 3B(a)(ii) favourite image, 3B(b)(iii) |
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