Evaluating a text · Grade 9
To evaluate a text is to judge how well the writer achieves something. In GCSE English Language Paper 1 (Question 4) you are given a statement, such as The writer makes the storm seem terrifying, and asked how far you agree. All the extracts here were written for Calcali.
Key facts
- Read the statement carefully and decide how far you agree: completely, mostly, or only in part.
- Find evidence: short quotations that support the statement, and any that challenge it.
- Explain the writer's methods: the words, images and structure they use, and the effect each one has on the reader.
- Use evaluative words that judge the writer's success: vividly, convincingly, effectively, powerfully, successfully.
- Avoid just retelling the story or naming a technique without its effect: every point should say how well the writer succeeds and why.