Annotating for language and structure
Always spend a few minutes considering the question and then quickly annotating the extract to highlight useful evidence – ready to use in your answer.
Annotating language
Don't highlight all the language features you spot – you’ll end up highlighting the whole text. Pick out examples of striking word choices or Any method an author uses to add meaning or interest to a text, such as metaphors, similes or alliteration.. They might be interesting because they’re unusual, or because they’re doing a particularly good job of creating an effect linked to purpose or audience.
Do pick out individual words which you can explore closely – ones with particular An idea or image which is suggested by a word, which is not its dictionary meaning, eg the connotation of 'desk' might be school., for example, or ones which seem especially significant. These are usually adjectives, or phrases that have used particular techniques to conjure up a specific image.
Think about how each word or phrase will support your answer.
Annotating structure
Look at the overall text to begin your annotation. Can you spot patterns in the structure? How has the writer chosen to organise the text? How do they order ideas and information?
Look out for:
- effective openings
- headings and subheadings
- focus and focus shifts
- contrast and pace
- time and place
- repetition and patterns
- paragraph and sentence lengths
- effective conclusions
Highlight or label structural features of a text – it is useful to look at the opening, middle and ending. Briefly note the effect of that feature on the reader – what is the writer prioritising or emphasising through their use of structure?