Year 10 English Exam - Audiences

General audience

Everyday readers with no specialist knowledge; writing is clear, broad, and accessible.

Academic audience

Scholars, researchers, or students; writing is formal, well-referenced, and analytical.

Professional audience

People in a specific career or industry; writing uses technical language and focuses on practical or specialised topics.

Young children

Simple language, short sentences, and engaging visuals or stories.

Teenagers or young adults

Relatable topics, modern language, and emotional or social themes.

Educated lay audience

Readers who are not experts but have an interest and some background knowledge.

Business or corporate audience

Clear, concise, and persuasive writing aimed at decision-makers or clients.

Government or policy audience

Formal and precise writing that focuses on evidence, data, and recommendations.

Advocacy or activist audience

Writing that aims to inspire action or raise awareness about social, political, or environmental issues.

Creative or literary audience

Readers who appreciate artistic expression, complex themes, and stylistic techniques.

Look for the language and tone

Look for formal, informal, technical, or conversational language to gauge who the writer is addressing.

Look for the level of vocabulary and complexity

Simple words suggest a general audience; specialised or academic terms point to experts or professionals.

Look for the topic and subject matter

The content itself often indicates who would be most interested or affected.

Look for the purpose of the writing

Whether it aims to inform, persuade, entertain, or instruct can reveal who it targets.

Look for examples and references

Cultural references, slang, or industry-specific examples can hint at the audience's background.

Look for the format and medium

A social media post, newspaper article, academic paper, or advertisement each caters to different audiences.

Look for assumed knowledge

Notice what the writer expects readers to already know — this shows the intended level of expertise.

Look for the tone and emotional appeal

A serious, logical tone may target professionals; a humorous or casual tone may appeal to peers or younger readers.

Look for pronouns and direct address

Words like 'you,' 'we,' or 'they' can reveal who the writer includes or speaks to.