GCSE English Language revision · Language and structure

Paper 2 Question 3: language in non-fiction

The idea

Question 3 asks how one writer uses language to describe or persuade. It is worth 12 marks, so explain several choices in depth and connect them to the writer's viewpoint.

Pick precise quotations that show the writer's attitude.
Identify methods such as rhetorical questions, lists, emotive words or tone.
Explain the effect and link it to what the writer wants the reader to think.

Watch out Writing about content (what happened) instead of language (how it is told) loses marks.

See it worked

Worked example

"Is it really too much to ask for a bus that turns up?" Analyse this sentence.

Method: a rhetorical question with sarcastic "really".
It suggests the request is tiny and the service is failing.
Effect: the reader shares the writer's frustration.

Answer The sarcastic rhetorical question makes the writer's frustration clear and invites the reader to agree that the service is failing.

Your turn

Question 11 mark

"Filthy, freezing and forgotten, the ward was no place for a child." Which method opens the sentence?

Question 21 mark

A writer calls a new car park "a grey scar across the meadow". What attitude does this show?

Question 32 marks

"You, yes you, can stop this waste today." Explain how the writer uses language to persuade.

Write your answer, then see a model answer

Name the method: direct address and repetition of "you".
Explain the effect on the reader.
Note the time word that adds urgency.

Answer Direct address ("you, yes you") singles out each reader and makes them feel personally responsible, while "today" adds urgency.

In past papers

8 official questions in 8 papers since 2020. The latest:

All GCSE English Language past papers

GCSE English Pro

£119 once

At least 12 months of access

By paying you agree to our Terms and get access straight away, which ends your 14-day cancellation right.

Start free

No VAT is charged.