GCSE · Chapter 3
Reading non-fiction: retrieval, summary and analysis
By the end of this chapter you will be able to
- I can list four facts from a non-fiction text accurately.
- I can summarise a part of a text in my own words, without copying.
- I can name a rhetorical device and explain its effect on the reader.
- I can describe how paragraphs are arranged, and what each one does.
- I can tell fact from opinion, and explain why the writer chooses a tone.
You should already know
- Fiction retrieval and language (Chapter 1)
- Point, evidence and effect (Chapter 1)
Where this leads
- Comparing two texts and judging reliability (Chapter 4)
- Writing a letter, article or speech (Chapter 8)
GCSE English Language. Content follows the GCSE (9-1) subject content for England (Edexcel and AQA). Content references: Retrieve and list facts from a non-fiction text (AO1), Summarise the points from part of a text in your own words, selecting and combining them (AO1, AO2), Identify and explain rhetorical devices, tone and the first-person voice in non-fiction (AO2), Explain how the structure of paragraphs shapes an argument or reflection (AO2), Separate fact from opinion, and consider audience and purpose (AO2).
Exercise P Do you remember?
1
FWhat is a fact? Write the answer in one short phrase.
something that can be proved true
Method. A fact can be checked and shown to be true.
- Think about a fact. A fact can be tested or checked against evidence.tested or checked
- Write it as a phrase. Something that can be proved true is a fact.something that can be proved true
- Write the answer. something that can be proved true
Check. Facts can be checked. ✓
2
FWhat is an opinion? Write the answer in one short phrase.
a view that someone holds, which cannot be proved
Method. An opinion is a view, not a proven fact.
- Think about a view. A person can hold a view, but it cannot be proved.cannot be proved
- Write it as a phrase. An opinion is a view someone holds.a view that someone holds, which cannot be proved
- Write the answer. a view that someone holds, which cannot be proved
Check. Opinions are views. ✓
3
FWhat is a rhetorical question? Write the answer in one short phrase.
a question asked for effect, not to get an answer
Method. A rhetorical question is asked to make a point.
- Think about the purpose. The writer does not expect an answer.does not expect an answer
- Write it as a phrase. It is asked for effect, to make the reader think.a question asked for effect, not to get an answer
- Write the answer. a question asked for effect, not to get an answer
Check. It makes the reader think. ✓
4
FWhat is a summary? Write the answer in one short phrase.
the main points in your own shorter words
Method. A summary is shorter than the original and keeps the main points.
- Think about length. A summary is much shorter than the text.much shorter
- Write it as a phrase. It gives the main points in your own words.the main points in your own shorter words
- Write the answer. the main points in your own shorter words
Check. Summaries keep the main points. ✓
5
FWrite the plural of the word fact. Write one word.
facts
Method. Most nouns add s in the plural.
- Look at the word. Fact ends with a consonant, so add s.fact + s
- Write the plural. The plural is facts.facts
- Write the answer. facts
Check. Facts is the plural. ✓
3.1
Retrieval: finding and listing facts
Video lesson: Retrieval: finding and listing factsComing soon
Context. Question 1 asks you to list four things from Text C. Facts are details the writer reports as true, such as dates, numbers, places and events. Opinions are the writer's views, and they need separating.
Text C: Seven days in the drawer (original article, first person, six paragraphs)
1On the first Monday, I put my phone in the kitchen drawer, under the takeaway menus and a bundle of old birthday candles. I told myself it was an experiment. In truth, I was frightened that I would not last until lunch.
2I should admit that I am not a natural hermit. I like company, and I like to know what is happening. So the first morning felt as though a limb had been removed. My hand kept reaching for a pocket that was empty, and the quiet of the flat seemed to press on my ears.
3By Wednesday something had changed. I noticed the birds on the fence, which I had never looked at before, and I learned that the number 14 bus is late on wet afternoons. Nobody tells you these things while you are staring at a screen. You have to wait for the bus to find out.
4Some facts about the week are plain. I missed two appointments because I had no reminder. I spent four hours reading on Thursday, a number I would have been ashamed to admit a week earlier. My friends sent messages that I did not see until Sunday evening.
5Critics say that a phone is simply a tool, and that a person who wants to be sociable will always find a way. I think they are partly right. Yet a tool that is always within reach is rarely just a tool. It asks for attention every few minutes, and most of us give it, without ever choosing to.
6So will I go back? Yes, of course. I need it for bus times, and my sister lives in another country. But the phone will live in the drawer at night from now on. The drawer is not a punishment. It is simply a place where I can hear myself think.
Key ideas
- Question 1 asks for a list. Give the number of items asked for, in your own words or as copied words.
- A fact is something the writer reports as true. An opinion is a view the writer holds.
- Look for signal words that show a view: I think, I believe, in my view.
Worked example 3.1.1
How many hours did the writer spend reading on Thursday? Write the words.
Method. Find the number of hours in the text.
- Find the time. The writer says how long they spent reading on Thursday.I spent four hours reading on Thursday
- Copy the number. The number of hours is four.four hours
- Write the answer. four hours
Check. The number is copied from the text. ✓
Worked example 3.1.2
Which sentence is a fact? Choose one: I think they are partly right., I missed two appointments because I had no reminder. or The drawer is not a punishment..
Method. Test each choice against the text.
- Read what the question asks for. Decide what the sentence or the text needs.
- Test the choice. The writer states what happened, which can be checked.I missed two appointments because I had no reminder. fits
- Reject the other choices. I think and the drawer sentence give a view or a judgement, not a checkable event.I think they are partly right. and The drawer is not a punishment. do not fit
- Write the answer. I missed two appointments because I had no reminder.
Check. The choice fits the text. ✓
Worked example 3.1.3
Give one opinion from paragraph 6. Copy the words.
Method. Find a sentence that gives a view.
- Look for a view. The writer describes the drawer as a place for thinking, which is a judgement.a place where I can hear myself think
- Copy the sentence. The sentence states a view about the drawer.The drawer is not a punishment.
- Write the answer. The drawer is not a punishment.
Check. The drawer sentence is an opinion. ✓
Exercise 3A Practice: retrieval and facts
1
FWhich paragraph says the writer was frightened? Write the number.
1
Method. Find the word frightened.
- Find the word. The writer says they were frightened in paragraph 1.I was frightened that I would not last until lunch
- Give the number. That sentence is in paragraph 1.1
- Write the answer. 1
Check. The word frightened is in paragraph 1. ✓
2
FHow many appointments did the writer miss? Write the word.
two
Method. Find the appointments.
- Find the detail. The writer says they missed two appointments.I missed two appointments
- Give the word. The number of appointments is two.two
- Write the answer. two
Check. Two appointments were missed. ✓
3
FWhich bus is late on wet afternoons? Write the number.
14
Method. Find the bus.
- Find the bus. The writer says the number 14 bus is late on wet afternoons.the number 14 bus is late on wet afternoons
- Give the number. The bus is number 14.14
- Write the answer. 14
Check. The number 14 bus is late. ✓
4
FTrue or false: the writer describes themselves as a natural hermit. Write true or false.
false
Method. Find what the writer says about themselves.
- Find the detail. The writer says they are not a natural hermit.I am not a natural hermit
- Decide. The writer denies being a hermit, so the statement is false.false
- Write the answer. false
Check. The writer says the opposite. ✓
5
FTrue or false: the writer finds the first morning easy. Write true or false.
false
Method. Check how the first morning feels.
- Find the detail. The first morning felt as though a limb had been removed.as though a limb had been removed
- Decide. The morning is described as difficult, so the statement is false.false
- Write the answer. false
Check. The first morning is described as hard. ✓
6
FTrue or false: the writer still uses the phone for bus times at the end. Write true or false.
true
Method. Find what the writer says they need the phone for.
- Find the detail. The writer says they need it for bus times.I need it for bus times
- Decide. The writer will still use it for this, so the statement is true.true
- Write the answer. true
Check. The writer needs the phone for bus times. ✓
7
FWhich paragraph mentions the writer's sister? Write the number.
6
Method. Find the sister.
- Find the sister. The sister lives in another country.my sister lives in another country
- Give the number. That is paragraph 6.6
- Write the answer. 6
Check. Paragraph 6 mentions the sister. ✓
8
PSGive four facts that the writer states about the week. Write four short answers.
Accept any answer that gives four facts from the text, such as the phone in the drawer on Monday, two missed appointments, four hours reading, the bus being late, or messages seen on Sunday. For example: the phone was put in the drawer on the first Monday; two appointments were missed; the writer read for four hours on Thursday; the friends' messages were seen on Sunday evening.
Method. Find four clear facts, and check each is stated in the text.
- Find the first fact. The phone was put in the drawer on the first Monday.On the first Monday
- Find more facts. Two appointments were missed, and four hours were spent reading.I missed two appointments
- List four. Four facts that appear in the text are the answer.four facts
- Write the answer. the phone was put in the drawer on the first Monday; two appointments were missed; the writer read for four hours on Thursday; the friends' messages were seen on Sunday evening.
Check. Four facts that the text states. ✓
9
RWhich is a fact: "the number 14 bus is late on wet afternoons" or "I think they are partly right"? Write the fact.
the number 14 bus is late on wet afternoons
Method. Decide which sentence can be checked as a happening.
- Look at the two sentences. The bus sentence reports a regular event.late on wet afternoons
- Decide. The phrase I think shows a view, so the bus sentence is the fact.the number 14 bus is late on wet afternoons
- Write the answer. the number 14 bus is late on wet afternoons
Check. The bus sentence is a reported fact. ✓
10
RWhich sentence is an opinion? Write the words: "My friends sent messages." or "I think they are partly right."
I think they are partly right
Method. Look for a sentence that gives a judgement.
- Compare. The first sentence reports an event.My friends sent messages
- Choose. The second gives a judgement with I think.I think they are partly right
- Write the answer. I think they are partly right
Check. I think marks an opinion. ✓
11
PSWhich paragraph describes the birds on the fence? Write the number.
3
Method. Find the birds.
- Find the birds. The birds are noticed in paragraph 3.I noticed the birds on the fence
- Give the number. That is paragraph 3.3
- Write the answer. 3
Check. Paragraph 3 mentions the birds. ✓
12
RExplain why the sentence "I spent four hours reading on Thursday" is a fact and not an opinion. Write one sentence.
Accept any answer that explains that the sentence reports a specific, checkable amount of time. For example: It reports a specific time that the writer spent, which can be checked.
Method. Think about whether the sentence can be checked.
- Look at the sentence. It gives a number of hours on a named day.four hours on Thursday
- Explain. A specific time can be checked, so it is a fact.can be checked
- Write the answer. It reports a specific time that the writer spent, which can be checked.
Check. A specific time is a fact. ✓
3.2
Summary in your own words
Video lesson: Summary in your own wordsComing soon
Context. Question 2 asks you to summarise the points from part of the text. A summary keeps the main points, leaves out the examples and the small details, and uses your own words. Copying whole phrases loses marks.
Key ideas
- A summary keeps the main points and drops small detail.
- Use your own words; do not copy whole sentences.
- Combine two or three points into one clear sentence.
Worked example 3.2.1
Summarise the writer's first experience of the phone being away, in one sentence, in your own words.
Method. Find the main point, then rewrite it in your own words.
- Find the main point. The first morning felt hard, with the hand reaching for an empty pocket.as though a limb had been removed
- Rewrite in your own words. Use different words that keep the meaning.uneasy without it
- Write one sentence. Combine the points into one clear sentence.The writer found the first morning hard, feeling uneasy without the phone.
- Write the answer. The writer found the first morning hard, feeling uneasy without the phone.
Check. The summary keeps the main point and is in new words. ✓
Worked example 3.2.2
Which is the best summary of paragraph 4? Choose one: The writer lists four facts that show the cost of the week., The writer loves the drawer. or The bus is always late..
Method. Test each choice against the text.
- Read what the question asks for. Decide what the sentence or the text needs.
- Test the choice. Paragraph 4 gives facts about missed appointments, time spent reading and unanswered messages, which show a cost.The writer lists four facts that show the cost of the week. fits
- Reject the other choices. Loving the drawer and the bus are not in paragraph 4.The writer loves the drawer. and The bus is always late. do not fit
- Write the answer. The writer lists four facts that show the cost of the week.
Check. The choice fits the text. ✓
Worked example 3.2.3
Which words in paragraph 4 are a copy and which are summary? Write "copy" or "summary" for the sentence "I missed two appointments because I had no reminder".
Method. A summary changes the words, while a copy keeps them.
- Check the words. The sentence is taken word for word from the text.I missed two appointments because I had no reminder
- Decide. No words were changed, so it is a copy and not a summary.copy
- Write the answer. copy
Check. A summary would change the words. ✓
Exercise 3B Practice: summaries
1
FSummarise paragraph 2 in one sentence, in your own words.
Accept any answer that gives the main idea of paragraph 2, that the writer felt uneasy without the phone, in new words. For example: The writer felt uneasy and kept reaching for the phone that was no longer there.
Method. Keep the main idea and drop the small details.
- Find the main idea. The writer felt uneasy and the phone was missed.felt as though a limb had been removed
- Write it in new words. Use your own words without copying.uneasy and missed
- Write the answer. The writer felt uneasy and kept reaching for the phone that was no longer there.
Check. The summary keeps the main idea in new words. ✓
2
FSummarise paragraph 3 in one sentence, in your own words.
Accept any answer that gives the main idea of paragraph 3, that small details were noticed when the phone was away. For example: The writer began to notice small things, such as the birds and the bus, once the phone was away.
Method. Find the main change, then rewrite it.
- Find the change. Something changed by Wednesday.By Wednesday something had changed
- Rewrite. The writer noticed small details.small details
- Write the answer. The writer began to notice small things, such as the birds and the bus, once the phone was away.
Check. The change is summarised in new words. ✓
3
PSSummarise the writer's view on whether a phone is just a tool, in one sentence.
Accept any answer that gives the view that a phone is more than a tool because it demands attention, in new words. For example: Critics say the phone is only a tool, but the writer thinks it is more than that because it demands attention.
Method. Find the critics' view and the writer's response.
- Find the critics. Critics say it is simply a tool.simply a tool
- Find the response. The writer says it is rarely just a tool, because it asks for attention.rarely just a tool
- Write the answer. Critics say the phone is only a tool, but the writer thinks it is more than that because it demands attention.
Check. Both sides are summarised. ✓
4
PSWhich is the best summary of paragraph 6? Write the letter: A, B or C. A: "The writer will use the phone for bus times, but keep it in the drawer at night." B: "I need it." C: "The drawer is a place to think."
A
Method. Choose the summary that keeps the main point of the paragraph.
- Read the choices. Choice A combines the main points of the paragraph.bus times and the drawer at night
- Choose. B and C leave out the main point or only a detail.A
- Write the answer. A
Check. Choice A keeps both main points. ✓
5
PSWrite a one-sentence summary of the whole text, in your own words.
Accept any answer that keeps the main events and the final decision in one sentence, in new words. For example: The writer put the phone away for a week, found it hard at first, and decided to keep it in a drawer at night.
Method. Keep the beginning, the change and the ending.
- Beginning. The writer put the phone away.put my phone in the kitchen drawer
- Ending. The writer will keep the phone in a drawer at night.the phone will live in the drawer
- Write the answer. The writer put the phone away for a week, found it hard at first, and decided to keep it in a drawer at night.
Check. Beginning, change and ending are all in one sentence. ✓
6
RWhich words from paragraph 5 should you not copy into a summary? Write one word: critics, tool or sociable.
sociable
Method. Think about which word is a detail rather than a main point.
- Find the main point. The main point is about the tool and the critics.critics
- Find the detail. Sociable is a detail about the kind of person.sociable
- Write the answer. sociable
Check. Sociable is a detail. ✓
7
RExplain why a summary should not copy whole sentences. Write one sentence.
Accept any answer that explains that a summary shows understanding of the main points, which copying does not show. For example: A summary shows that the reader has understood the main points, and copying shows only the words.
Method. Think about what a summary is for.
- Think about understanding. A summary shows the main points are understood.understood
- Compare with copying. Copying shows only the original words.only the original words
- Write the answer. A summary shows that the reader has understood the main points, and copying shows only the words.
Check. Summary shows understanding. ✓
8
PSWhich paragraph is best summarised by "the writer feels the phone is more than a simple tool"? Write the number.
5
Method. Find the paragraph about the tool.
- Find the paragraph. Paragraph 5 is about the tool.a phone is simply a tool
- Give the number. The paragraph is number 5.5
- Write the answer. 5
Check. Paragraph 5 is about the tool. ✓
9
RCombine two points from paragraphs 3 and 4 into one sentence in your own words.
Accept any answer that combines a point from paragraph 3 about noticing things with a point from paragraph 4 about missed appointments or unanswered messages. For example: The writer noticed small things once the phone was away, and the week had a real cost in missed appointments.
Method. Choose one point from each paragraph, then join them.
- Point from paragraph 3. The writer noticed small things.the birds
- Point from paragraph 4. The week also had a cost.missed two appointments
- Join them. One sentence can join the two points.a real cost in missed appointments
- Write the answer. The writer noticed small things once the phone was away, and the week had a real cost in missed appointments.
Check. Two points are combined into one sentence. ✓
3.3
Rhetorical devices and tone
Video lesson: Rhetorical devices and toneComing soon
Context. Writers of non-fiction use language to persuade, reflect and engage. Rhetorical devices include questions asked for effect, direct address to the reader, contrast, and comparisons. Tone is the attitude the writer shows.
Key ideas
- A rhetorical question is asked for effect, not for an answer.
- Direct address uses you to speak to the reader.
- Tone is the attitude: for example reflective, anxious, humorous or serious.
Worked example 3.3.1
What technique is used in "So will I go back?" Write the name.
Method. Think about whether the writer wants an answer.
- Look at the question. The writer asks a question and answers it straight away.So will I go back? Yes, of course.
- Name the device. A question asked for effect is a rhetorical question.rhetorical question
- Write the answer. rhetorical question
Check. The writer answers the question at once. ✓
Worked example 3.3.2
What is the tone of paragraph 1? Choose one: light-hearted and joking, anxious and honest or angry and bitter.
Method. Test each choice against the text.
- Read what the question asks for. Decide what the sentence or the text needs.
- Test the choice. The writer says they were frightened and admits the experiment was a worry.anxious and honest fits
- Reject the other choices. Light-hearted and angry tones do not fit the fear the writer admits to.light-hearted and joking and angry and bitter do not fit
- Write the answer. anxious and honest
Check. The choice fits the text. ✓
Worked example 3.3.3
What effect does "Nobody tells you these things" have? Give one idea.
Method. Notice the direct address and the general claim.
- Find the device. Nobody tells you uses you to speak to the reader.Nobody tells you these things
- Explain. The writer makes a general claim that includes the reader.general claim
- Give the effect. The reader is made to feel included and may agree.it makes the reader feel included and invites them to agree
- Write the answer. it makes the reader feel included and invites them to agree
Check. Direct address includes the reader. ✓
Exercise 3C Practice: rhetorical devices and tone
1
FWhat technique is used in "as though a limb had been removed"? Write one word.
simile
Method. Look for the comparison word.
- Find the signal. As though compares the feeling to a missing limb.as though a limb had been removed
- Name the technique. A comparison with as though is a simile.simile
- Write the answer. simile
Check. The comparison uses as though. ✓
2
FWhich word in paragraph 1 shows the writer's fear? Write one word.
frightened
Method. Find the emotive word.
- Find the word. The writer was frightened that they would not last until lunch.frightened
- Give the word. Frightened shows the emotion.frightened
- Write the answer. frightened
Check. Frightened shows fear. ✓
3
RWhat is the device in "It asks for attention every few minutes"? Write one word.
personification
Method. Ask whether the phone is given a human action.
- Find the action. The phone asks for attention, which is a human action.asks for attention
- Name the device. Giving a non-human thing a human action is personification.personification
- Write the answer. personification
Check. The phone is given a human action. ✓
4
PSWhich word does the writer use to admit a weakness in paragraph 2? Write one word.
admit
Method. Find the admission.
- Find the admission. The writer says I should admit that they are not a natural hermit.I should admit
- Give the word. Admit signals a confession.admit
- Write the answer. admit
Check. Admit shows a confession. ✓
5
RWhat is the tone of "I should admit that I am not a natural hermit"? Write one word: confident, honest or angry.
honest
Method. Consider what the sentence is doing.
- Read the sentence. The writer admits something about themselves.I should admit
- Name the tone. Admitting a weakness is an honest tone.honest
- Write the answer. honest
Check. The writer is honest. ✓
6
RExplain the effect of the contrast in "The drawer is not a punishment. It is simply a place where I can hear myself think." Write one sentence.
Accept any answer that explains that the contrast turns the drawer from punishment into a calm, positive place. For example: The contrast shows the writer sees the drawer as calm and positive rather than harsh.
Method. Look at what the writer rejects and what the writer chooses.
- Find the contrast. The writer rejects punishment and chooses a place to think.not a punishment
- Explain the effect. The contrast makes the drawer seem calm and positive.calm and positive
- Write the answer. The contrast shows the writer sees the drawer as calm and positive rather than harsh.
Check. The contrast explains the change. ✓
7
RWhat is the device in "the quiet of the flat seemed to press on my ears"? Write one word: personification, metaphor or simile.
personification
Method. Ask whether quiet is given a human action.
- Find the action. Quiet is given the action of pressing, which a person does.press on my ears
- Name the device. The quiet is given a human action, so it is personification.personification
- Write the answer. personification
Check. The quiet is given a human action. ✓
8
PSDescribe the tone of paragraph 4 in one word, and quote one phrase that shows it.
Accept any answer that gives a tone such as factual, honest or ashamed, with a quotation from paragraph 4. For example: factual and slightly ashamed, because "I spent four hours reading on Thursday, a number I would have been ashamed to admit"
Method. Name the tone, then quote a phrase that shows it.
- Name the tone. The paragraph reports facts and shows a little shame.factual and ashamed
- Quote the phrase. The phrase admits the writer was ashamed.a number I would have been ashamed to admit
- Write the answer. factual and slightly ashamed, because "I spent four hours reading on Thursday, a number I would have been ashamed to admit"
Check. The tone is shown by a quotation. ✓
9
RWhich technique does the writer use in "a person who wants to be sociable will always find a way"? Write one word: list, generalisation or question.
generalisation
Method. Look for a claim about people in general.
- Find the claim. The sentence is about a person in general.a person who wants to be sociable
- Name it. A claim about people in general is a generalisation.generalisation
- Write the answer. generalisation
Check. It is a general claim. ✓
10
RExplain how the first-person voice of the text makes the reader trust the writer. Write one sentence.
Accept any answer that explains that personal feelings and honest admissions make the reader trust the writer. For example: The writer shares personal feelings and admissions, which makes the reader trust their honesty.
Method. Think about what the reader learns about the writer.
- Find the personal detail. The writer admits fear and shame.frightened
- Explain the trust. Admissions make the writer seem honest.honest
- Write the answer. The writer shares personal feelings and admissions, which makes the reader trust their honesty.
Check. Personal admissions build trust. ✓
3.4
Structure and paragraphs in non-fiction
Video lesson: Structure and paragraphs in non-fictionComing soon
Context. Non-fiction writers plan their paragraphs. An opening sets the situation, a turning point shows change, a counter-argument answers critics, and a conclusion gives a final view. Look for words that signal each job.
Key ideas
- Each paragraph has a job: opening, change, evidence, counter-argument or conclusion.
- Signal words such as Critics say, Yet, So or But show a change of direction.
- A counter-argument shows the writer has considered the other view.
Worked example 3.4.1
Which paragraph is the conclusion? Give the number.
Method. Find the paragraph that ends the piece.
- Find the ending. The final paragraph returns to the writer's decision.So will I go back?
- Check the job. It gives the final view and decision.the phone will live in the drawer
- Give the number. The conclusion is paragraph 6.6
- Write the answer. 6
Check. The last paragraph gives the decision. ✓
Worked example 3.4.2
What is the job of paragraph 5? Choose one: a counter-argument that answers critics, a list of bus times or an apology.
Method. Test each choice against the text.
- Read what the question asks for. Decide what the sentence or the text needs.
- Test the choice. It begins with critics who say a phone is simply a tool, then the writer answers.a counter-argument that answers critics fits
- Reject the other choices. The bus times are in paragraph 3, and the paragraph has no apology.a list of bus times and an apology do not fit
- Write the answer. a counter-argument that answers critics
Check. The choice fits the text. ✓
Worked example 3.4.3
Which word signals a turning point in paragraph 3? Write the word.
Method. Look at the start of paragraph 3.
- Look at the opening. Paragraph 3 begins with a time phrase.By Wednesday
- Think about the job. The phrase shows the change in the experiment.something had changed
- Give the word. The signal word is By.By
- Write the answer. By
Check. By Wednesday marks the change. ✓
Exercise 3D Practice: structure and paragraphs
1
FWhich paragraph shows the writer's first experience and the opening decision? Write the number.
1
Method. Find the opening.
- Find the opening. The first paragraph describes the Monday decision.On the first Monday
- Give the number. The opening is paragraph 1.1
- Write the answer. 1
Check. Paragraph 1 is the opening. ✓
2
FWhich paragraph is the turning point, where something changes? Write the number.
3
Method. Find the change.
- Find the change. By Wednesday something had changed.By Wednesday something had changed
- Give the number. The turning point is paragraph 3.3
- Write the answer. 3
Check. Paragraph 3 is the turning point. ✓
3
FWhich paragraph contains a counter-argument? Write the number.
5
Method. Find the critics.
- Find the critics. Critics say that a phone is simply a tool.Critics say that a phone is simply a tool
- Give the number. The counter-argument is paragraph 5.5
- Write the answer. 5
Check. Paragraph 5 has the counter-argument. ✓
4
PSWhich word starts the sentence that begins the writer's conclusion? Write one word.
So
Method. Find the conclusion sentence.
- Find the conclusion. The final paragraph begins with So will I go back?So will I go back?
- Give the word. The word is So.So
- Write the answer. So
Check. So begins the conclusion. ✓
5
RWhich word in paragraph 5 signals a change of direction? Write one word: Yet, Critics or simply.
Yet
Method. Look for a signal of contrast.
- Find the contrast. Yet a tool that is always within reach is rarely just a tool.Yet a tool
- Give the word. Yet signals the contrast with the critics.Yet
- Write the answer. Yet
Check. Yet signals the contrast. ✓
6
RExplain why paragraph 5 is placed before the conclusion. Write one sentence.
Accept any answer that explains that the counter-argument comes before the conclusion to make the decision seem balanced. For example: It answers the critics before the conclusion, so the writer's final decision seems balanced.
Method. Think about the order of the argument.
- Think about the order. The critics are answered before the final view.answered
- Explain the balance. A balanced conclusion is more convincing.more convincing
- Write the answer. It answers the critics before the conclusion, so the writer's final decision seems balanced.
Check. The order makes the conclusion balanced. ✓
7
PSWhich paragraph describes the writer's feelings in the first morning? Write the number.
2
Method. Find the feelings.
- Find the feelings. Paragraph 2 describes the hand reaching for an empty pocket.My hand kept reaching for a pocket that was empty
- Give the number. That is paragraph 2.2
- Write the answer. 2
Check. Paragraph 2 describes feelings. ✓
8
RExplain how the order of paragraphs 1 to 3 moves the reader from the start of the experiment to the change. Write one sentence.
Accept any answer that explains that the paragraphs move from the decision to the feelings and then the change. For example: It starts with the decision and the fear, then moves to the first morning and finally to the change by Wednesday.
Method. Name the order, then say what it shows.
- Name the order. Decision, feelings, change.decision, feelings, change
- Explain the movement. The reader sees the change grow over time.grow over time
- Write the answer. It starts with the decision and the fear, then moves to the first morning and finally to the change by Wednesday.
Check. The order shows the change. ✓
9
RWhat job does paragraph 4 do? Write one word: opening, facts, conclusion.
facts
Method. Find the list of details.
- Find the details. Paragraph 4 gives facts about missed appointments and reading time.I missed two appointments
- Name the job. The paragraph gives facts.facts
- Write the answer. facts
Check. Paragraph 4 gives facts. ✓
3.5
Audience, purpose and facts against opinion
Video lesson: Audience, purpose and facts against opinionComing soon
Context. A writer has a purpose (to inform, persuade or reflect) and an audience (who the text is for). Writers mix facts and opinions. Good readers notice which is which, and ask whether the opinions are supported.
Key ideas
- Purpose: why the writer is writing. Audience: who the writer wants to read it.
- Opinion markers: I think, I believe, in my view, it seems to me.
- A balanced piece gives facts and opinions, and acknowledges other views.
Worked example 3.5.1
What is the main purpose of Text C? Choose one: to reflect on a personal experience, to list bus times or to sell a phone.
Method. Test each choice against the text.
- Read what the question asks for. Decide what the sentence or the text needs.
- Test the choice. The writer tells their own experience and what they learned from it.to reflect on a personal experience fits
- Reject the other choices. Bus times are only one detail, and the text does not sell anything.to list bus times and to sell a phone do not fit
- Write the answer. to reflect on a personal experience
Check. The choice fits the text. ✓
Worked example 3.5.2
Which phrase marks the writer's view in paragraph 5? Copy the phrase.
Method. Look for signal phrases that show a view.
- Look for the marker. The writer uses a phrase that shows a personal view.I think they are partly right
- Copy the marker. The marker is I think.I think
- Write the answer. I think
Check. I think is an opinion marker. ✓
Worked example 3.5.3
Give one fact and one opinion from paragraph 4. Write the fact first.
Method. Separate what happened from what the writer thinks.
- Find the fact. The writer reports missed appointments.I missed two appointments because I had no reminder
- Look for an opinion. Paragraph 4 gives facts and does not state a view.Some facts about the week are plain
- Give the answer. Paragraph 4 gives facts with no opinion.fact: I missed two appointments; opinion: none is given
- Write the answer. fact: I missed two appointments; opinion: none is given
Check. Paragraph 4 is factual. ✓
Exercise 3E Practice: audience, purpose and facts
1
FWhat is the writer's main purpose? Write one word: reflect, persuade or inform.
reflect
Method. Think about why the piece was written.
- Think about the purpose. The writer reflects on their own week, after an experiment.I told myself it was an experiment
- Name the purpose. The purpose is to reflect.reflect
- Write the answer. reflect
Check. The writer reflects on the experience. ✓
2
RWho is the most likely audience? Write one phrase: general readers or scientists.
general readers
Method. Think about the tone and the subject.
- Think about the subject. The text is about everyday life with a phone.a phone
- Name the audience. General readers can relate to the experience.general readers
- Write the answer. general readers
Check. Everyday readers are the audience. ✓
3
FWhich word is an opinion marker? Write one word: I, think or phone.
think
Method. Look for words that show a view.
- Look for the marker. I think shows the writer's judgement.I think
- Give the word. Think is the opinion marker.think
- Write the answer. think
Check. Think marks an opinion. ✓
4
RTrue or false: the whole text is made of facts. Write true or false.
false
Method. Check whether there are opinions.
- Check. The text includes I think and the drawer is not a punishment.I think
- Decide. The text mixes facts and opinions, so the statement is false.false
- Write the answer. false
Check. The text mixes facts and opinions. ✓
5
RWhich is the better reason for putting the phone away? Write the letter: A or B. A: "I wanted to see how the week felt." B: "I was told to by a friend."
A
Method. Choose the reason that matches the text.
- Read the options. The text says the experiment was about feeling and thinking.an experiment
- Choose. Option A matches the experiment described in paragraph 1.A
- Write the answer. A
Check. Option A matches the text. ✓
6
PSGive one fact and one opinion from paragraph 5. Write one sentence for each.
Accept any answer that gives a fact or a report of critics, and an opinion with I think or a similar marker. For example: Fact: a phone is often described as simply a tool. Opinion: I think they are partly right.
Method. Separate the reported view from the writer's judgement.
- Find the report. Critics say a phone is simply a tool.Critics say that a phone is simply a tool
- Find the opinion. The writer thinks they are partly right.I think they are partly right
- Write the answer. Fact: a phone is often described as simply a tool. Opinion: I think they are partly right.
Check. One report and one opinion are separated. ✓
7
RExplain why the writer uses the first person ("I") in a reflective article. Write one sentence.
Accept any answer that explains that first person makes the piece personal and trustworthy. For example: It makes the experience personal and honest, so the reader trusts the view.
Method. Think about what I does for the reader.
- Think about I. I shows the writer's own experience.own experience
- Explain the effect. The reader trusts a personal account.trusts
- Write the answer. It makes the experience personal and honest, so the reader trusts the view.
Check. The personal voice builds trust. ✓
8
RExplain how the purpose of this text might change if it were written for a school newsletter. Write one sentence.
Accept any answer that explains that the purpose or tone would shift to suit a school audience, such as more advice or encouragement. For example: It might be more informative or encouraging, with more advice for pupils and fewer personal admissions.
Method. Think about who the audience is.
- Think about the audience. Pupils would expect advice or a message.advice
- Explain the change. The purpose would shift towards advice.shift
- Write the answer. It might be more informative or encouraging, with more advice for pupils and fewer personal admissions.
Check. The audience changes the purpose. ✓
9
RWhich phrase from paragraph 6 is most personal? Write the phrase: "the drawer is not a punishment" or "my sister lives in another country".
my sister lives in another country
Method. Decide which phrase tells you about the writer's life.
- Compare. The sister phrase tells us about the writer's family.my sister lives in another country
- Choose. The sister is the most personal detail.my sister lives in another country
- Write the answer. my sister lives in another country
Check. It is the most personal detail. ✓
10
RExplain how the mix of facts and opinions makes the article convincing. Write one sentence.
Accept any answer that explains that facts give evidence and opinions give reasons, which makes the piece convincing. For example: The facts show what happened, and the opinions show why it matters, so the reader believes the writer.
Method. Think about what facts and opinions each do.
- Think about facts. Facts show what happened.what happened
- Think about opinions. Opinions explain why it matters.why it matters
- Write the answer. The facts show what happened, and the opinions show why it matters, so the reader believes the writer.
Check. Both kinds of writing support the view. ✓
Chapter summary
| Skill | Method |
|---|---|
| Retrieve facts (Question 1) | Find the sentence, copy exact words when asked, and give the number of items asked for |
| Summarise (Question 2) | Find the main point, rewrite it in your own words, and combine two points into one sentence |
| Rhetorical devices and tone | Name the device (rhetorical question, direct address, contrast), explain its effect, and name the tone |
| Structure and paragraphs | Name the job of each paragraph (opening, turning point, counter-argument, conclusion) and the signal words |
| Audience, purpose and fact or opinion | Name the purpose and audience, and separate facts from markers such as I think |
Can you…?
- I can list four facts from a non-fiction text accurately
- I can summarise a part of a text in my own words
- I can name a rhetorical device and explain its effect
- I can describe what each paragraph of a non-fiction text does
- I can separate facts from opinions and name the purpose and audience
Key terms
- fact
- something that can be checked and shown to be true
- opinion
- a view that someone holds, which cannot be proved
- rhetorical question
- a question asked for effect, not to get an answer
- direct address
- speaking to the reader using you
- tone
- the attitude the writer shows towards the subject
- counter-argument
- a view that answers the other side of an argument
- summary
- a shorter version that keeps the main points, in your own words
Exercise 3Z Check-up
1
How many hours did the writer spend reading on Thursday? Write the words.
four hours
Method. Find the time spent reading.
- Find the detail. The writer says four hours on Thursday.I spent four hours reading on Thursday
- Copy the number. The number is four hours.four hours
- Write the answer. four hours
Check. The number is copied exactly. ✓
2
Which bus is late on wet afternoons? Write the number.
14
Method. Find the bus.
- Find the bus. The number 14 bus is late on wet afternoons.the number 14 bus is late
- Give the number. The bus is number 14.14
- Write the answer. 14
Check. The bus is number 14. ✓
3
True or false: the writer is a natural hermit. Write true or false.
false
Method. Find what the writer says about themselves.
- Find the detail. The writer says they are not a natural hermit.I am not a natural hermit
- Decide. The statement is false.false
- Write the answer. false
Check. The writer denies it. ✓
4
Summarise the writer's first morning without the phone, in one sentence, in your own words.
Accept any one-sentence summary that says the writer felt uneasy or missed the phone at first, in new words. For example: The writer felt uneasy at first, missing the phone.
Method. Find the main point, then rewrite it.
- Find the main point. The morning felt as though a limb had been removed.as though a limb had been removed
- Rewrite it. The writer felt uneasy and missed the phone.felt uneasy and missed the phone
- Write the answer. The writer felt uneasy at first, missing the phone.
Check. The summary is in new words. ✓
5
What technique is used in "So will I go back?" Write the name.
rhetorical question
Method. Think about whether the writer wants an answer.
- Look at the question. The writer asks and answers at once.Yes, of course
- Name it. A question for effect is a rhetorical question.rhetorical question
- Write the answer. rhetorical question
Check. The writer answers it. ✓
6
Which paragraph contains a counter-argument? Write the number.
5
Method. Find the critics.
- Find the critics. Critics say a phone is simply a tool.Critics say
- Give the number. The counter-argument is paragraph 5.5
- Write the answer. 5
Check. Paragraph 5 has the critics. ✓
7
Which word signals the change in paragraph 3? Write one word.
By
Method. Look at the start of paragraph 3.
- Look at the start. The paragraph begins with a time phrase.By Wednesday
- Give the word. The signal word is By.By
- Write the answer. By
Check. By Wednesday marks the change. ✓
8
What tone does the writer show in "I should admit that I am not a natural hermit"? Write one word.
honest
Method. Read the sentence.
- Read the sentence. The writer admits a weakness.I should admit
- Name the tone. The tone is honest.honest
- Write the answer. honest
Check. The writer is honest. ✓
9
Give one fact and one opinion from paragraph 4. Write the fact first.
Accept any answer that gives a reported fact from paragraph 4, such as I missed two appointments, and states that paragraph 4 gives no opinion, or that the fact is separate from a view. For example: Fact: I missed two appointments. Opinion: none is given.
Method. Separate the reported fact from any view.
- Find the fact. The writer missed two appointments.I missed two appointments
- Find the opinion. Paragraph 4 is mostly factual, with no opinion.factual
- Write the answer. Fact: I missed two appointments. Opinion: none is given.
Check. The fact and opinion are separated. ✓
10
Explain the effect of the contrast "The drawer is not a punishment". Write one sentence.
Accept any sentence that says the contrast turns the drawer into a calm, positive place rather than a harsh one. For example: the contrast makes the drawer seem calm and positive.
Method. Explain the contrast.
- Find the contrast. The writer rejects punishment.not a punishment
- Explain the effect. The drawer becomes calm and positive.calm and positive
- Write the answer. the contrast makes the drawer seem calm and positive.
Check. The effect is linked to the contrast. ✓
Total 26 marks. Allow about 26 minutes.
Exercise 3X Exam-style questions
1
FText: "I missed two appointments because I had no reminder." How many appointments were missed? Write the word.[1 mark]
two
Method. Find the number.
- Find the number. The sentence says two appointments.two
- Copy it. The word is two.two
- Write the answer. two
Check. The number is copied. ✓
2
FText: "I think they are partly right." Is this sentence a fact or an opinion? Write one word.[1 mark]
opinion
Method. Look for a marker of a view.
- Find the marker. I think shows a personal judgement.I think
- Name it. A judgement with I think is an opinion.opinion
- Write the answer. opinion
Check. I think marks an opinion. ✓
3
FText: "Critics say that a phone is simply a tool." Which group does the writer report in this sentence? Write one word.[1 mark]
critics
Method. Find the group named.
- Find the group. The sentence names critics.Critics say
- Copy the word. The group is critics.critics
- Write the answer. critics
Check. The group is named. ✓
4
RText: "I noticed the birds on the fence, which I had never looked at before". Explain what this shows about the writer. Use your own words.[2 marks]
Accept any answer that says the writer began to notice small details, or became more aware of the world, once the phone was away. For example: the writer became more aware of small things around them.
Method. Explain what the detail shows.
- Read the detail. The writer notices something new.had never looked at before
- Explain. The writer became more aware of small things.more aware
- Write the answer. the writer became more aware of small things around them.
Check. The idea is linked to the detail. ✓
5
RText: "It asks for attention every few minutes, and most of us give it, without ever choosing to." What technique is used for the phone in "It asks for attention"? Write one word.[1 mark]
personification
Method. Ask whether the phone is given a human action.
- Find the action. The phone asks for attention, which a person does.asks for attention
- Name it. Giving a non-human thing a human action is personification.personification
- Write the answer. personification
Check. The phone is given a human action. ✓
6
RText: "By Wednesday something had changed." Explain what this sentence does at the start of paragraph 3. Use your own words.[2 marks]
Accept any answer that says the sentence marks a turning point, showing that the experience began to change for the writer. For example: it marks a turning point where the writer starts to notice things.
Method. Explain the job of the sentence.
- Find the job. The sentence signals a change.something had changed
- Explain. It marks a turning point in the experience.a turning point
- Write the answer. it marks a turning point where the writer starts to notice things.
Check. The job is a turning point. ✓
7
RText: "So will I go back? Yes, of course." Explain the effect of this rhetorical question. Use your own words.[3 marks]
Accept any answer that says the question makes the reader think and leads to the writer's decision, and that the answer is given at once. For example: the question makes the reader think about the decision before the answer is given.
Method. Explain the device and its effect.
- Name the device. It is a rhetorical question.rhetorical question
- Explain the effect. It makes the reader think before the decision is given.before the decision
- Write the answer. the question makes the reader think before the decision is given.
Check. The device and the effect are explained. ✓
8
RText: "Nobody tells you these things while you are staring at a screen. You have to wait for the bus to find out." Explain how the writer uses direct address here. Use your own words.[3 marks]
Accept any answer that says the writer uses you to speak to the reader, which includes the reader in the experience and makes the point general. For example: the word you includes the reader and makes the point general.
Method. Name the device and its effect.
- Name the device. The writer uses you.you
- Explain the effect. The point is general and includes the reader.includes the reader
- Write the answer. the word you includes the reader and makes the point general.
Check. The device and effect are explained. ✓
9
RText: "Some facts about the week are plain. I missed two appointments because I had no reminder." Explain how these sentences show the cost of the week. Use one fact from the text.[3 marks]
Accept any answer that uses one fact, such as two missed appointments, and explains that it shows a practical cost of having no phone. For example: missing two appointments shows a practical cost of the week.
Method. Use a fact, then explain its cost.
- Use a fact. The writer missed two appointments.two appointments
- Explain the cost. The missed appointments show a practical cost.a practical cost
- Write the answer. missing two appointments shows a practical cost of the week.
Check. The fact and its cost are explained. ✓
10
RText: "The drawer is not a punishment. It is simply a place where I can hear myself think." Explain the effect of this sentence on the reader. Use your own words.[4 marks]
Accept any answer that says the sentence makes the drawer seem calm and positive, and invites the reader to see a benefit in putting the phone away. For example: the sentence makes the drawer seem a calm place to think.
Method. Explain the effect of the sentence.
- Read the sentence. The writer rejects punishment and offers a benefit.a benefit
- Explain the effect. The reader sees the drawer as calm and useful.calm and useful
- Write the answer. the sentence makes the drawer seem a calm place to think.
Check. The effect is linked to the sentence. ✓
11
RText: "I think they are partly right. Yet a tool that is always within reach is rarely just a tool." Explain how the writer's structure in this paragraph responds to critics. Use your own words.[5 marks]
Accept any answer that says the writer first agrees in part and then uses Yet to argue the phone is more than a tool, so the critics are answered. For example: the writer agrees in part, then uses Yet to say the phone is more than a tool.
Method. Explain the structure and its effect.
- Find the concession. The writer agrees in part.partly right
- Find the turn. Yet signals the counter-point.Yet
- Explain the effect. The critics are answered and the argument seems balanced.answered and balanced
- Write the answer. the writer agrees in part, then uses Yet to say the phone is more than a tool.
Check. The structure is explained. ✓