Key points to remember

When you've done your revision, you know your terminology and have undertaken a range of practice papers, there are a few key points to remember before you sit the exam.

Include Terminology!

Revise the linguistic devices and techniques. Then, make sure you include the terminology in the exam: do not use the word ‘word’. Name the word class e.g. is it an adjective, adverb, dynamic verb, abstract noun etc.

Go over the textual analysis you have completed in class and refresh your knowledge on the genres that have been covered. 

Remember to comment on each of the framework headings (grammar, lexis…etc) but avoid lengthy analysis of graphology (language should be your main focus).

 

Focus on the question

What is it asking you to look for in particular? – underline the key words

Remember Section B will ask you to address a specific aspect so do what the question asks e.g. how are the writer’s attitudes expressed?

Likewise, don’t be tempted to comment on things not present in the text – stick to what is in-front of you!

Follow the P.E.A structure

Make a point, follow it with an example, and analyse the language (what effect it has). Feature spotting without detailed analysis will not get you any marks.

Always ask yourself have I explained how or why this point is effective.  In doing this you will avoid that won’t-get-me-any-marks descriptive answer.

 

Make it flow syndrome

Be conscious of your phrasing and avoid those empty/vague ways of expression e.g. it makes it flow, it creates an image in the reader’s head, it’s interesting, it adds emphasis.  If you do write any of these follow them up by saying HOW or WHY it does these things. 

Avoid saying 'this quote' or 'this example'.  Embed the evidence within the point you are making.

Quality of written communcation

Before you get into the exam, make sure that your quality of written communication is high. This includes your spelling, punctuation, and grammar as well as your ability to structure and paragraph your work. All of these aspects are important and you will be marked on them.

Revise those terms which are often misspelled – simile, repetition, similar, definitely, exclamatory, onomatopoeia, declarative…

APOSTROPHES – learn them and use them.  The attitude belongs to the writer so it’s the writer’s attitude. 

PARAGRAPHS - even if you’re in a hurry you must remember that each time you are making a NEW POINT or IDEA you should start a NEW PARAGRAPH