Analysing Non-Fiction (AQA)

Purpose

The writer's aim in creating the text, such as to inform, persuade, advise, describe, entertain, argue, or reflect.

Audience

The intended readers of the text, whose characteristics influence the writer's choices in language, tone, and content.

To Inform

A purpose of non-fiction writing aimed at educating the reader about a topic by providing facts and explanations.

To Persuade

A purpose of non-fiction writing that seeks to convince the reader to adopt a specific viewpoint or action.

To Advise

A purpose of non-fiction that offers guidance and recommendations, often found in self-help articles or advice columns.

To Describe

A purpose of non-fiction writing that creates vivid imagery of persons, places, events, or experiences.

To Entertain

A purpose that involves engaging the reader through humor or storytelling, often secondary to another aim.

To Argue

A purpose of presenting a reasoned case for or against a specific viewpoint in essays or debates.

To Reflect

A purpose that shares personal thoughts and insights, commonly found in memoirs or personal essays.

Form

The overall type of non-fiction text, such as articles, speeches, letters, or blogs.

Structure

The organization of a text that guides readers and enhances the writer's purpose.

Genre Conventions

Typical features and expectations associated with different genres, such as news reports, travel writing, or persuasive speeches.

Word Choice

The specific vocabulary selected by the writer for its connotations and impact.

Sentence Structure

The construction of sentences that affects the text’s pace and flow.

Literary Devices

Techniques writers use to create specific effects, like imagery, anecdotes, and rhetorical questions.

Tone

The writer's attitude toward the subject and audience, conveyed through language and style.

Style

The writer’s distinct way of writing, reflecting their choices in tone, language, and structure.

Context

The circumstances surrounding the creation and reception of the text, including historical and cultural factors.

Perspective

The writer’s viewpoint and biases which shape the text's message.

Close Reading

In-depth analysis of specific words and sentences to understand how language functions.

Contextual Analysis

Examining the historical, social, and political contexts that influence the text's meaning.

Comparative Analysis

A method comparing two or more texts to identify similarities and differences in various aspects.

Effective Analysis

Focus on how and why language choices are made, supported by textual evidence.

Textual Evidence

Quotations and examples from the text that support analytical points.

Analytical Terminology

Terms used to discuss analytical concepts, such as metaphor, tone, and structure.

Structure Your Response

Organizing analysis logically, focusing on specific aspects like language or purpose.

Address the Question Directly

Ensuring analysis responds specifically to the exam question.

Effect on the Reader

Considering how the writer's choices are intended to influence the audience.

Emotive Language

Words that evoke feelings and emotions in the reader.

Technical Jargon

Specialized vocabulary used in specific fields that can include or exclude certain audiences.

Imagery

Descriptive language appealing to the senses, enhancing the reader's experience.

Rhetorical Questions

Questions posed for effect rather than to elicit an answer, often used to engage the reader.

Repetition

The use of repeated words or phrases for emphasis.