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Learn: Question 5 Language Techniques
AQA GCSE English Language specification
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Welcome!You've already mastered narrative and descriptive writing in Question 5, so now we'll focus on language techniques. This lesson will help you understand how to use techniques effectively to create impact and engage your audience.
Why Are Language Techniques Important?Language techniques are tools that writers use to create specific effects in their writing, such as emotion, imagery, or emphasis. In Question 5, using these techniques strategically can help you achieve higher marks for AO5 and AO6.
Descriptive DevicesDescriptive devices help you create vivid images in your reader's mind. Examples include similes (comparing one thing to another using 'like' or 'as'), metaphors (direct comparisons saying one thing is another), and personification (giving human qualities to non-human things).
Which of the following is an example of a metaphor?
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Using Sensory DetailsUsing sensory details helps your writing come alive. Think about the five senses: sight, sound, taste, touch, and smell. Including these details allows your reader to experience your writing more vividly.
Using sensory details means describing how something {{blank0}}, {{blank1}}, or {{blank2}}.
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Creating AtmosphereTo achieve an engaging atmosphere, use techniques like tone (the mood or attitude of your writing), contrast (juxtaposing opposites for impact), and emotive language (words that evoke strong feelings). These help to immerse your reader into the world you're creating.
Match the items on the left with their correct pairs on the right
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Structuring Your ResponseIn Question 5, it is important to plan your response carefully. Use paragraphing and discourse markers to organise your ideas clearly. Ensure you have a strong opening and ending to leave a lasting impression.
Which of the following is an effective opening for a descriptive piece?
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Varying Sentence StructuresUsing a variety of sentence forms (simple, compound, complex) can make your writing more engaging. Combine short sentences for impact with longer ones for detail.
A {{blank0}} sentence contains one main clause, while a {{blank1}} sentence contains more than one clause joined by a conjunction.
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Review Time!Great work! You've learned how to use language techniques like similes, metaphors, sensory details, and more for Question 5. Let's test your understanding with a few questions.
Which of the following techniques are examples of sensory details? (Select all that apply)
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Which sentence uses contrast effectively?
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Match the items on the left with their correct pairs on the right
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Match the items on the left with their correct pairs on the right
Start the lesson to answer this math equation question
ConclusionWell done! You now know how to use language techniques effectively in Question 5 to create impact and engage your reader. Keep practising these skills to improve your writing even further!

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