Paper 1 Question 5: Language Techniques

Technique	Description	Example
Descriptive Language Adjective • words that describe nouns Adverbs • words that describe verbs, adjectives or other adverbs	Enhances imagery and provides specific details	"The ancient, towering trees swayed gently in the cool breeze."
Figurative Language Simile – comparing two things using 'like' or 'as' Metaphor – Comparing things by saying one thing is another	Creates vivid comparisons	"Her smile was as bright as the sun" (simile); "The classroom was a beehive of activity" (metaphor).
Personification	Giving human qualities to inanimate objects	"The wind whispered through the leaves."
Alliteration and Assonance	Repetition of consonant/vowel sounds	"The slippery slope seemed to stretch endlessly" (alliteration); "The mellow bell echoed through the valley" (assonance).
Varied Sentence Structures	Mix of short and long sentences	"The storm hit. Trees fell, roofs collapsed, and the streets flooded in minutes."
Sensory Language Onomatopoeia • words that imitate sounds (e.g. bees buzzing in the garden)	Appeals to the senses (sight, sound, smell, touch, taste)	"The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the air, mingling with the sound of crackling logs in the fireplace."
Dialogue	Adds realism and develops character voices	"'Are we really doing this?' she whispered, eyes wide with excitement."
Imagery	Creates mental pictures through detailed descriptions	"The sunset splashed the sky with a palette of oranges, pinks, and purples."
Hyperbole	Exaggeration for effect	"I've told you a million times!"
Repetition	Repeating words or phrases to emphasize important ideas	"Never, never, never give up."
Contrast	Juxtaposing opposite ideas to highlight differences	"The bright, cheerful market stood in stark contrast to the gloomy, abandoned alleyways."

Additional Tips:

1. Show, Don't Tell: Use detailed descriptions and actions to show the reader what's happening rather than just telling them.

2. Use a Wide Range of Vocabulary: Avoid repetition of common words; use a thesaurus to find precise and varied language.
3. Maintain Coherence and Cohesion: Ensure your writing flows smoothly with logical progression and clear connections between ideas.
4. Edit and Revise: Always review your writing for grammatical accuracy, clarity, and overall impact. Remove any unnecessary repetition or awkward phrasing.

5. Engage the Reader: Write with your audience in mind, aiming to create an immersive and captivating experience.