Understanding the question
The key to a successful response is to focus on the question and understand what you are being asked to do. Below are a few examples of the types of questions you may be required to answer. Use the marks available for each question as a guide on how much to write.
Example question one
List four things in this part of the text about the weather in Cornwall. (4 marks)
This type of question is not looking for a close analysisThe interpretation of a piece of text which looks closely at the language, structure and themes used. of the text or a detailed response. This task aims to check your reading skills and ability to pick out the relevant information from the fictional text. Donât spend too long on this type of question: the number of marks available should be your guide. These types of questions usually have a low number of marks. Remember to read the question very carefully â this question is asking you to focus on the weather in Cornwall, so stay focussed on that.
Example question two
This extract is from a key moment in a novel. How is the theme of conflict presented here? Support your views with detailed reference to the text. (8 marks)
This sort of question asks you to focus on different examples of a theme throughout a text. As well as picking obvious examples of arguments between characters, you would also seek out moments of internal conflict, conflict in setting and conflict between appearance and reality.
For each example, choose a few words or phrases from the text that demonstrate the theme. Explore and analyse how language, literary deviceAny method an author uses to add meaning or interest to a text, such as metaphors, similes or alliteration. and structure work together to create effects.
Example question three
How does the writer use language in the first paragraph to create tension? (8 marks)
If youâre asked to focus on a particular section of an extract, then focus your analysis on that bit. When youâre looking at language remember to examine particular words and phrases used. What patterns of words do you notice? Are there lots of words connected with uncertainty or fear?
Look at sentence structures and notice how the writer is using these to create tension. Are there lots of short sentences to build pace? Do longer sentences keep us hanging on?
How do the characters behave and respond to their situation? Notice dialogueThe words said by a character in a story or play. as well as descriptions.
As well as action, think about how characters contribute to tension, how setting is important and how ideas are presented by the writer.
Example question four
In this extract, the writer makes the reader feel sympathy for the main character. To what extent do you agree with this view? (20 marks)
This question is asking for a more personal response, so you need to evaluate as well as analyse. Your main task is to explain the extent to which you agree with this opinion and how the extract makes you feel. You still need to use quotations to support each point you make; look closely at the word choices the author makes and explore how these affect the reader.