Study the advertisement (TEXT D) below and answer the set questions - NSC English FAL - Question 3 - 2016 - Paper 1

One can avoid hay fever and allergies by consulting a pharmacist or chemist about a product that alleviates these issues. Additionally, purchasing products from Dr Reddy's Laboratories, which is specifically advertised in the ad, is recommended.

The advertisement employs both visual and verbal techniques that evoke elements of horror.

Visual Techniques: The imagery resembles that of a film strip, using colors and layouts that may remind viewers of horror movie advertisements, thereby setting a suspenseful tone. The frightening depiction of allergens represented as a lurking entity is illustrated through the imagery of a cat/pollen.

Verbal Techniques: The language is laden with suspense, as seen in phrases like 'It lurks...', 'It hides...', and 'waits...'. The phrase 'Get the tissues ready for...' coupled with an ominous buildup invokes a fear of the return of allergies, just as a horror film would hint at impending danger.

Ellipsis is used in this line to create suspense, suggesting that something significant follows. It intrigues the audience, encouraging them to anticipate further details while maintaining an air of mystery regarding what is to come.

The singular form of 'Laboratories' is 'Laboratory'.

'Starts 1 September' refers to the date on which the allergy-related products will be available for use, coinciding with the onset of allergy season when pollen levels typically increase.

The advertisement is effective because it utilizes horror movie techniques to depict allergies as a daunting threat, thus capturing the viewer's attention. The suspenseful language and imagery are conducive to evoking an emotional response.

However, its effectiveness might be limited because not everyone experiences allergies, and the horror motif may not resonate universally. Therefore, while dramatic, it may not appeal to those who do not relate to these concerns.