Writing about Language in Non Fiction Texts GCSE English Language

Understanding language in non-fiction texts is a crucial skill for GCSE students taking English Language exams in the UK. In this context, "non-fiction" refers to texts that present information and facts, such as newspaper articles, reports, opinion pieces, and essays. To succeed in writing about language for non-fiction texts, students need to learn the following key aspects: Language Features: GCSE students should be familiar with various language features commonly used in non-fiction texts, such as persuasive techniques, emotive language, rhetorical devices, statistics, facts, and expert opinions. Understanding these features allows them to recognize how writers construct arguments and convey information effectively. Audience and Purpose: Analysing the target audience and the purpose of the non-fiction text is vital. Students should be able to identify whether the text aims to inform, persuade, entertain, or educate. Recognizing the target audience helps them understand the language choices made by the writer to engage and appeal to the readers. Tone and Style: Students need to grasp how tone and style can vary in non-fiction writing. They should recognize formal, informal, conversational, or objective tones, as well as the use of technical or subject-specific language. Analysing tone and style enhances their ability to interpret the author's stance and intent. Structural Devices: Understanding the organization and structure of non-fiction texts is essential. Students should learn to identify headings, subheadings, bullet points, and other structural devices that help readers navigate and comprehend the information presented. Language Analysis: GCSE students should practice close reading and analysis of non-fiction texts. This involves extracting key quotes, examples, and language features to support their interpretations of the writer's message and how it is conveyed. Comparative Analysis: Comparing multiple non-fiction texts on the same topic or theme allows students to identify similarities and differences in language choices. This skill helps them develop a more nuanced understanding of different writing styles and persuasive techniques. Contextual Understanding: Awareness of the social, historical, and cultural context in which the non-fiction text was produced can inform students' analysis. It helps them recognize how language reflects societal values, biases, and attitudes. ......... In this video, our English GCSE tutor discusses the difference between language in fiction and non-fiction texts. Non-fiction texts present factual information and real-life characters. Students are encouraged to analyse various aspects, such as character behaviour, dialogue, setting, and atmosphere. This lesson emphasizes the importance of original interpretation rather than seeking a checklist of techniques. In the video we provide two examples of non-fiction texts. The first example is a promotional text for Windward House, using proper nouns and alliteration to convey a sense of perfection and appeal. The second example offers advice on holiday table settings, using second-person direct address, sibilance, and evocative language to engage the audience. We then walk through a non-fiction text from the 1800s discussing the benefits of wasting time. The tutor prompts students to analyse language choices, such as negative verbs and contrast with idleness to convey the importance of relaxation. In the final part of the video, a modern text promoting outdoor activity is presented, using imperative verbs and second-person direct address to persuade readers about the benefits of being active outside. Our tutor advises GCSE students to consider the language and intention of the texts they analyse and provides downloadable worksheets with language-focused questions for further practice. The video concludes by encouraging students to build on their understanding of non-fiction text structure.