Part 1 Unit 1: Reading non≠ fiction
3 Divide the time you have to write about the extract into, say, four equal
sections, too, so that you can give equal attention to each part of the passage. Why? Often, candidates write impressive material about the first part of an extract but you need to ensure that you deal with all the passage ñ especially the conclusion ñ in the same depth.
4 Make a list of key words and phrases (no longer than six or seven
words). Why? You cannot write about everything, but you do need some particularly powerful, vivid or meaningful words or phrases to hang your key ideas around. You may wish to colour-code words and phrases which seem to be related to each other.
5 Plan your response.
Why? Even if you do not have time to write out a plan, mentally you need to consider the structure of your response. You have a list of key words/phrases and you have divided up the passage, but you also need to consider your own writing. You can, of course, write one paragraph on point of view, one on the use of imagery to convey the setting, etc. However it is probably better to plan to show the progression of the passage. This is the way it develops and unfolds and this approach allows you to: comment on similarities and contrasts within the passage show how attitudes develop or change explain how focuses shift from one thing, person or place to another.
TIP
Remember that you are not expected to comment on everything!
KEY TERMS mood atmosphere, feeling perspective the viewpoint or ë angleí the writer has on a situation, person or experience voice the individual or specific tone or perspective of a writer
What kind of words or phrases should you list? You should make a list of words or phrases that:
suggest a particular mood or attitude of the writer at that point in the passage seem to suggest certain qualities or ideas seem to echo others in the extract seem to contrast with others in the extract you can use for your introduction.
How should you use the words and phrases you have listed? Focus on the following four ideas: what voice or perspective is exemplified through these selected words? what is the passage or writer implying or what kind of message is being given? what relationships and/or social positions in the passage are presented and how do they change or develop, if at all? what contexts are shown? Are they, for example, cultural, social, economic, geographical or historical? Sometimes all four of these ideas might apply, sometimes two or just one. You should prioritise them according to the passage. These ideas will form the basis for your introduction/overview and the framework for your analysis as a whole.
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