​

Analysing

​

 

Analysing is a key skill for P1 Q2 and Q3 and P2 Q3.

To analyse = to examine something in detail in order to explain and interpret it.

​

DETAIL

​

If you make one simple comment, you won't have detail. If you explain and interpret, it will give you the detail you need.

​

EXPLAIN and INTERPRET

​

Break your main point down into smaller 'sub' points and explain each one. Link your ideas clearly to the story/characters/article/ etc. For example, imagine you are analysing some language. Your main point is:

​

The writer uses the adjectives 'mean' and 'red' to describe the rat's eyes.

 

Now you need to break that down and explain 'mean' and 'red' separately:

 

'Mean' portrays the rat as being cruel and shows that it might do harm to someone. 'Red' has connotations of danger, evil and blood. The rat would look like something from a nightmare or horror film with its eyes glowing in the dark. It could also symbolise that the rat is the enemy in the story.

​

Notice that the student gives more than one interpretation of the words. The more ideas you have about what a word or phrase means, the more details you have and potentially MORE MARKS.

​

Top Tip!

​

• It's better to write in detail about one point than switch quickly from point to point.