Question 1

How do I analyse language in non-fiction texts for GCSE English?

Accepted Answer

Start by identifying the writer's purpose and audience. Then, pick out specific language features like rhetorical questions, emotive words, or imperatives. For each feature, quote the exact words, name the technique, and explain its effect on the reader. For example, 'The writer uses the imperative 'Join us now' to create a sense of urgency and directly persuade the reader to take action.' Always link back to the overall purpose.

Question 2

What is the difference between tone and mood in English analysis?

Accepted Answer

Tone refers to the writer's attitude towards the subject or audience, such as formal, sarcastic, or passionate. Mood is the feeling the text creates in the reader, like tense, hopeful, or sombre. For example, a speech about climate change might have an urgent tone and create a worried mood. You can identify tone through word choice and sentence structure, while mood is the emotional response you experience.

Question 3

How can I improve my non-fiction writing for the OCR GCSE exam?

Accepted Answer

Practice writing for different audiences and purposes. Use a clear structure: an engaging opening, well-organised paragraphs with topic sentences, and a strong conclusion. Vary your sentence lengths and types (e.g., short for impact, long for detail). Include persuasive devices like rhetorical questions, statistics, and emotive language. Finally, always proofread to correct spelling, punctuation, and grammar errors.

Question 4

What are the best ways to revise for the OCR GCSE English Language exam?

Accepted Answer

Read a variety of non-fiction texts (news articles, opinion pieces, speeches) and practise analysing them under timed conditions. Create flashcards for language and structural devices with definitions and examples. Write practice responses to past paper questions, focusing on the mark scheme. Also, work on your own writing by planning and composing texts for different purposes, then self-assess against the criteria.

Question 5

How do I identify bias in a non-fiction text?

Accepted Answer

Look for one-sided arguments, selective use of facts, emotive language that favours one viewpoint, and loaded words (e.g., 'reckless' vs. 'bold'). Check if the writer includes opposing views or only presents evidence that supports their stance. Also, consider the source: is it from a known partisan publication? In your analysis, explain how the bias affects the reader's perception.

Question 6

What is the mark scheme looking for in the reading section of OCR GCSE English Language?

Accepted Answer

The mark scheme rewards clear understanding of the text, accurate identification of language and structural features, and detailed explanation of effects on the reader. You need to use subject terminology correctly (e.g., 'rhetorical question', 'imperative verb') and support your points with relevant quotations. Higher marks go to answers that show perceptive analysis and consider the writer's intentions and the text's context.

Communicating information and ideas (01)

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Related Topics in OCR GCSE English Language

E2E stub topic

Exploring effects and impact (02)

Presenting information and ideas

Reading information and ideas

How to Revise Communicating information and ideas (01) — OCR GCSE English Language

Examiner Tips for Communicating information and ideas (01)

Key Marking Points