This book is a superb all-in-one guide to success GCSE English Language and English Literature - GCSE English 2003

Writing Your Answer
Section Nine — Media and Non-Fiction Questions

Find the Bits that Answer the Question

1 You've got 15 minutes at the start of the exam just for reading. Go through the text at least twice, slowly. You'll have read the question, so you should be able to pick out everything relevant.

2 Keep track of the argument. It helps to mark the key points, as shown below.

3 Think about the language and tone of the piece as well, and write down anything that occurs to you.

Think About the Tone

The tone of the writing is tailored to specific audiences. Different types of writing will use different tones. Mention 'tone' and you'll impress the examiner. But just because it sounds convincing, it doesn't mean it is.

A passionate, personal tone is often used by politicians in political speeches.

— it helps give the impression they believe sincerely in the argument they are making.

Articles in professional journals often use an impersonal, academic tone.

— they want their arguments to appear to be well-grounded in fact and research.

Remember to read the question carefully BEFORE the text

The examiners want to know you've understood the text. Even when you're still picking points out, always make notes in your own words. The examiner will spot any kind of copying.

Writing Your Answer

Start Your Answer Confidently

You've got to sound believable — ALWAYS use impersonal language (e.g. "It seems", not "I think").

Your first line should show the examiner that you know exactly what the question's asking.

Reword the question as a statement, and make certain you seem self-assured.

2. (b) How does the magazine ’Careless Talk Costs Lives’ use images, as well as text, to communicate meaning?

Don’t Just Copy From the Text

The examiner wants to know that you've thought about the text, and not just looked at it.

You'll get no marks for copying the text. Try and find interesting ways to rephrase the key points.

Be Selective in Your Use of Detail

Detail is good — you need to explain what you're saying fully. BUT — don't overdo it. Select specific details that back up your point and help persuade the examiner — you'll get more marks.

Don’t bury examiners with lots of detail

The big thing here is no waffle. Don't bury the examiner under loads of irrelevant details.

Be precise. Say what you think. Tell them why you think it, BASED on what the text has said.