Analysing non-fiction

Non-fiction texts come in many types, and have many different purposes. They surround us in everyday life but can also come in more sophisticated forms.

When we talk about the purpose of a text, we are talking about what the writer wants to achieve. Writers use language and structural features to deliberately appeal to their intended audience.

Writers choose words and language features deliberately - to have an effect on their readers. The way they structure parts of a text, eg openings and endings, influences the reader too.

In the exams, you will demonstrate your understanding of non-fiction text types, their intended audience and purpose, and how the writer has used language and structure.

An example of the type of question you might be asked in an exam and how best to approach it.