How to Answer Question 4

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The Facts

Worth: 15 marks

AO Tested: AO4 (See first page for more info)

Suggested Time: 25 minutes

What will you need to do?

Evaluate how successful the writer has been throughout the entire text. This means discussing the effectiveness of the language and structural devices used, while also showing how the writer builds an effect over the course of the piece. Your answer should include an overview of the text and demonstrate an understanding of specific details. Use quotations to support your points.

Understanding Question 4

Question 4 is all about evaluation. You'll be given a statement about the text and asked how much you agree or disagree with it. You need to provide a balanced response, showing an understanding of the writer's methods and analysing how they create certain effects.

Planning Your Answer with TIES

Use the acronym TIES to help you consider different aspects of the text:

Themes: What main messages or ideas does the writer explore?
Ideas: What does the writer want the reader to think or feel?
Events: How does the sequence or choice of events contribute to the message or theme?
Setting: How does the location or atmosphere affect the overall impression of the text? This structure will ensure your analysis covers different layers of the text, showing a broader understanding that can help achieve a Grade 9.

Using Evaluative Language

You'll need to make your evaluation clear by using evaluative words and phrases throughout your response. Here are six high-level evaluative phrases to use:

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"The writer effectively conveys…"
"This is particularly compelling because…"
"The writer skillfully uses…"
"This aspect significantly enhances…"
"One might argue that…"
"It is clear that…"

Using these phrases shows your judgement and creates a more sophisticated response. Try to incorporate them naturally in each paragraph!

Structuring Your Response with PEE Paragraphs

For each point you make, use the PEE structure to keep your answer organised and clear:

Point: Start by making a clear point that links to the statement in the question.
Evidence: Provide a quote or example from the text to back up your point. Use two pieces of evidence for each point where possible.
Explain: Analyse how this evidence supports your point. Explain why the writer's choices are effective, and link them back to the statement.

Writing Your Response: Step-by-Step

Introduction

Briefly state your agreement or disagreement with the statement. You don't need to provide much detail here; just make it clear where you stand.

Example: "I mostly agree with the statement that the writer captures the character's isolation effectively, as this theme is reinforced throughout the text in both the setting and events."

Body Paragraphs (PEE)

Each paragraph should focus on a different aspect of TIES (Themes, Ideas, Events, Setting) to show your broad understanding. Aim for 3-4 paragraphs, each with 2 pieces of evidence.

1. Themes

Point: Begin by stating how the theme supports the statement.
Evidence: Provide a relevant quote, and then add a second piece of evidence to reinforce your point.
Explain: Explain how the theme enhances the writer's message, linking back to the statement.

Example: "The theme of isolation is effectively portrayed through the character's physical and emotional separation from others. For instance, the writer describes the character as 'trapped in silence,' and later 'surrounded by empty streets.' These descriptions not only highlight the physical solitude but also suggest a deeper, emotional isolation, making the character's loneliness particularly compelling."

2. Ideas

Point: Explain an idea that supports or refutes the statement.
Evidence: Use two pieces of evidence from different parts of the text to support your point.
Explain: Show how the writer develops this idea, commenting on its impact.

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Example: "The writer skillfully presents the idea of vulnerability, as the character is depicted as both physically and emotionally fragile. Early on, he is described as 'hesitant, barely daring to step forward,' while later, the narrative mentions his 'hands shaking with uncertainty.' These moments build a sense of vulnerability that supports the impression of isolation."

3. Events

Point: Focus on how the events in the text align with the statement.
Evidence: Select two specific events from the text that illustrate this point.
Explain: Describe how these events reinforce or challenge the statement.

Example: "The sequence of events further underscores the character's sense of isolation. First, he ventures into the empty streets alone, highlighting his lack of companionship. Later, when he seeks help, he is met with silence, enhancing his solitude. This progression makes his isolation particularly moving and reinforces the theme effectively."

4. Setting

Point: Comment on how the setting contributes to the theme or mood related to the statement.
Evidence: Provide two quotes that describe the setting.
Explain: Explain how the setting adds to the theme and links to the writer's intention.

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Example: "The writer uses setting to capture the bleakness of the character's isolation. Descriptions like 'grey, lifeless buildings' and 'a sky devoid of warmth' create a desolate atmosphere that reflects the character's inner emptiness. This setting intensifies the impact of his loneliness on the reader."

Conclusion

Wrap up by summarising your overall judgement on the statement, making a final evaluative comment.

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Example: "In conclusion, the writer's use of themes, setting, and events works together to present a powerful depiction of isolation, making the statement largely accurate. The layers of the character's isolation are compelling and effectively convey the depth of his loneliness."

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Vary Your Vocabulary: Avoid repeating the same words or phrases too often. Use a mix of evaluative words and synonyms.
Include Techniques When Useful: If a particular literary technique (e.g., metaphor, alliteration) strengthens your point, include it in your explanation.
Analyse, Don't Just Describe: Go beyond just pointing out what's in the text. Explain why the writer made certain choices and how they impact the reader.
Use Evidence from Across the Text: Don't rely on one part of the text. Pull evidence from different sections to show a full understanding.

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Here is an example question for you to answer

In this extract, there is an attempt to show the relationship between Lucy and Sir Michael. Evaluate how successfully this is achieved. Support your views with detailed reference to the text. (15)

How to Answer Question 4 Simplified Revision Notes for GCSE Edexcel English Language

How to Answer Question 4

The Facts

Understanding Question 4

Planning Your Answer with TIES

Using Evaluative Language

Structuring Your Response with PEE Paragraphs

Writing Your Response: Step-by-Step

Introduction

Body Paragraphs (PEE)

1. Themes

2. Ideas

3. Events

4. Setting

Conclusion

Here is an example question for you to answer

500K+ Students Use These Powerful Tools to Master How to Answer Question 4 For their GCSE Exams.

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