Analysing language in non-fiction
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Summary
Analysing language in non-fiction
In a nutshell
The language used in non-fiction texts is often not too dissimilar from the language used in fiction texts, and many of the same literary devices (sometimes called "techniques" or "features") can be found. A good analysis should tell you how language is used to create a specific effect. In this summary, you will learn about non-fiction language and how to analyse it.
Literary devices checklist |  |
Structuring your answer
Once you're familiar with the devices, it's time to put them to use. It's not enough to simply state that a sentence contains one of these devices. You must think about the effect on the reader. Why did the author use the device? What is the reader supposed to feel through use of this device?
To help you keep this in mind, there is a handy acrostic to help you when it comes to structuring your answer – Point, Evidence, Explanation, Link to the question. You don't have to use this structure, but it's a dependable way of including everything you need for a perfect non-fiction text analysis.
P E E L |  |
Point | First, make your point. You should lead with an effect that the text has on the reader. Don't mention literary devices just yet. |
Evidence | Next, give evidence for your point in the form of a quotation. This can be a whole sentence or perhaps just a simple word or phrase. |
Explanation | Now it's time to mention the device used. Explain how the example you have chosen supports the point. |
Link to the question | Finally, wrap up your paragraph by linking it back to the question. If it's a good point, you should be able to directly answer the question. Think of it as a "mini-conclusion" at the end of your paragraph. |
Back to basics
Remember, when evaluating the effect that the author's language has on the reader, it is not only the devices used that you can comment on. Go back to the basics. Think about the vocabulary used: which nouns and pronouns are used, and why? Which verbs create an effect, and how does tense and person alter this effect? Are there any interesting choices of adjectives or adverbs? Is the sentence structure simple or complex, and how does that affect the reader's interpretation?
Definitions
FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions
What are the language features in a non-fiction text?
Language features include alliteration, imagery, simile and metaphor, and rule of three.
What are literary devices of non-fiction?
A literary device is a tool or technique used by writers to express ideas stylistically and to create a certain effect.
How do you write a non-fiction analysis?
There is a handy acrostic to help you when it comes to structuring your answer – Point, Evidence, Explanation, Link to the question.