Language and Literature HL

Paper 1 Analysis and Annotation: How To

Top Tip

Know the marking criteria so you know what examiners are looking for

Criterion A - Understanding and comparison of the texts

The analysis should show an understanding of the similarities and differences between the texts. There needs to be a clear understanding of the target audience, the purpose and the context of the text. The comparative analysis must be supported by relevant examples from the texts.

5 marks

There are many examples of the writer using descriptive language in Text 2 when discussing different aspects of the museum. For example, casually describing the tanks, planes, and boats as ‘cool’ and the Holocaust exhibition as ‘superb’ seem to entice the reader to visit the museum. Additionally, the use of the phrase, ‘this place will be fun!’, punctuated with an exclamation mark, ‘shouts’ to the reader, enhancing the positivity expressed about the museum.

Criterion B - Understanding of the use and effects of stylistic features

The comparative analysis should show an understanding of how various stylistic features, such as tone, style and structure, are used to construct meaning. The analysis should comment on the effects that these features have on their target audience.5 marks

The author uses alliteration, symbolism and juxtaposition to great effect

The alliterative “tedious time” with its hard consonant “t” sounds makes the reader almost tut at the thought of visiting such a dreary museum.

Top Tip

The IB will always give you texts that are filled with stylistic features ... So don’t panic!

Criterion C - Organisation and development

The analysis must be well balanced, meaning that it treats both texts equally. Furthermore, it must be well structured, coherent and organised.

5 marks

Criterion D - Language

The language of the comparative analysis must be clear and accurate. It should be appropriate, meaning it contains formal sentence structure, good choice of words and effective terminology.

5 marks

Top Tip

Make sure to use some technical vocabulary.Check your own grammar, spelling and punctuation.Take the time to proofread. It is worth it!

You’re in the exam …

• Read all 4 texts• Choose your texts• Read your texts again with a pen/pencil/highlighter

in your hand• Jot down your central argument• Read a third time• Plan your line of argument• Start writing• Check your writing

Introduction

Identify the text type.

Text 1 “Give the Title” is an online article published on ______ in September 2014 and its main premise is _________. Text 2 “Give the Title”, on the other hand/similarly is _________.

So what? You need to say what you are going to do with these two texts.

******THESIS STATEMENT******

Main Body of Argument

You must identify:AudiencePurposeContext

Balance your essay between the two texts.

Stylistic Features

Structure and OrganisationFigurative LanguageTone and MoodGraphology and TypologyStyle

You don’t have much time, so pick 2 or 3 options here. You can’t do everything in 2 hours.

Conclusion

• Justify the introduction• Explain the texts again• Restate your thesis

Over to you

• Working with someone from the “other” class, write the introduction for a comparative textual analysis on the two texts you will be given.

• Then identify 3 or 4 stylistic features and decide how you would discuss their effects on the audience.

• Prizes for the best one!