Reading texts
Section 1: Understanding Written Texts
- Interpretation is paramount. Digest the material, understand the author's perspective and infer the hidden meaning from the text.
- Look for narrative voice, tone, mood, and atmosphere in a piece.
- Analysing figures of speech can enhance your understanding of texts. Avoid jumping to conclusions without supporting evidence from the text.
- Gain an understanding of a text's structure. This includes elements such as the introduction, body, conclusion, paragraphs and sentences.
- Consider literacy techniques like alliteration, metaphors, similes, personification, etc.
Section 2: Comprehension Questions
- Make sure to read all instructions and questions carefully.
- Your responses should directly address the question, supported by textual evidence.
- Aim to infer, evaluate, and critique using a mix of summary, analysis, and interpretation.
- Logically interpret information, ideas, and opinions from the text.
- Quoting the text directly can add more weight to your argument.
Section 3: Textual Analysis
- Identify and comment on the writer's use of literary and linguistic devices.
- Explore how the writer uses language to create effects and engage readers.
- Observe phonological, grammatical, and semantic choices made by the author.
- Highlight patterns, contrasts, and anomalies in the text.
- The use of critical terminology accurately and consistently can impress examiners.
Section 4: Vocabulary Development
- Improve your understanding of unfamiliar words or phrases in context.
- Identify how words are formed using prefixes, root words, and suffixes.
- Gain an understanding of how words change their meanings depending on context.
- Expand your vocabulary range and apply it appropriately.
- Dictionary usage is crucial, yet you should avoid over-reliance on it.
Section 5: Personal Response
- Develop your own opinions based on the text and support them using evidence.
- Aim to empathise with the characters or the author's perspective.
- Connect themes in the text to your own experiences, emotions, and ideas.
- Be open to diverse interpretations and respect differing viewpoints.