English Language Important Terms

Command Words

Terms used in exam questions that instruct students on how to respond, such as "analyze," "compare," and "discuss."

Analyze

Examine in detail to show meaning, identify elements, and the relationship between them.

Compare

Identify/comment on similarities and/or differences between texts or ideas.

Discuss

Write about issue(s) or topic(s) in depth in a structured way.

Form

Refers to the text type and its overall presentation, including its structure and purpose.

Purpose

The reason a text is created, such as to inform, persuade, or entertain.

Audience

The intended reader(s) or listener(s) of a text, which can be general or specific.

Structure

The organization and ordering of a text, including its beginning, middle, and end.

Language

Comprises lexis, sentence variety, and figurative language used in a text.

Lexis

The author's word choice and vocabulary used in a text.

Register

The language and grammar usage appropriate to a specific group, role, or situation.

Sentence Variety

The choices a writer makes regarding the length, type, and style of sentences.

Figurative Language

Language that represents an idea beyond its literal meaning, including metaphors and similes.

Context

The situation or background surrounding a text or its writer, influencing its meaning.

Point of View

The perspective from which a story is told, including 1st, 2nd, and 3rd person narratives.

1st Person POV

A narrative perspective using "I" or "we," limited to the character's knowledge.

2nd Person POV

A narrative perspective using "you," often found in self-help literature.

3rd Person POV

A detached narrative perspective that describes actions and dialogue without insight into characters' thoughts.

3rd Person Omniscient

A narrative perspective with unlimited knowledge of all characters' thoughts and behaviors.

3rd Person Limited Omniscient

A narrative perspective that provides insight into only one character's thoughts and feelings.