Question 3 - The Language Question.

Right everyone, let's just go over how to answer Question 3 on the foundation paper once more. On your hand-out I've given you a big list of Language/Language features. It doesn't matter which one it says, it means the same thing.

Here is how you should formulate your answer:

Remember, you need to write around 6 paragraphs to answer this one. You need to GRAB YOUR HIGHLIGHTER and highlight as many LANGUAGE FEATURES as you can find from the list I gave you.

If you get into the exam and you can't see many, then just use as you evidence any interesting or attention grabbing words or phrases.

Then, this is how you formulate your paragraphs:

What is the language feature you have spotted?

Where can we see it?

What is good or effective about this?

What will this do for the target audience?

Or, in other words:

The first wat that the author has used language is by using alliteration.

We can see this where it says, "Bright, blinding bulbs"

Alliteration is good because it makes particular words stand out.

This will make the target audience feel excited about the show because t makes the lights sound more impressive.

Here is an example of a full answer based on the exam paper I posted the other day:

Question Paper
Sources

Here's the question: -

How does the writer use language features to inform the reader about his trip and to describe his experiences?

Remember to: 

 give some examples of language features to inform

 give some examples of language features to describe

 explain the effects.


And here's my answer:

Inform

The first way that the author uses language to inform is where he uses DISCOURSE MARKERS. We see this in a couple of places, firstly where it says 'Sunday afternoon', and also where it says, 'suddenly'. Discourse markers help to put the text in order. By using them, the author lets his reader know what order everything is happening in.

The second way that the author uses language to  inform is through REPETITION. We see this when twice he tells us the name of the ship, the 'Al Sharma'. Repeating the name helps the name to stick in our heads. This makes the setting seem more realistic and will stick in the heads of any readers who might want to find out more about the boat.

Another way in which the author uses language to inform is by using RULE OF THREE. We see this where it says, 'This crew has given up a lot for us - sleeping space, living space and precious water.' By putting things into threes like this, it makes them stand out. This will make the reader realise just how much sacrifice the crew members have made on this journey.

One way in which the author uses language to describe is by using alliteration. We see this where it says, 'the reassuring rumble of the engine'. Alliteration helps you to imagine sounds. Here, the alliteration helps the reader to imagine the sound of the engine and makes it seem more realistic.

Another way in which the author uses language to describe is by using quotations from other people. We see this where it says, 'We are lucky men' he says. This is a really important technique because using quotations adds a sense of realism to the text. Also, it gives us a sense of how lucky the men are to still be alive.


Are you getting the hang of it now? It really is that easy. Just name the language feature, give an example, and say WHY it is good. Just make sure you're answering any bullet points you are given.

Next, I'll talk about question 4...

NW