Paper 1 Question 5: Language Techniques (AQA GCSE English Language)

Question 5 requires a response which uses the appropriate language style and features for the task. The upper level of the AO5 mark scheme indicates that marks should be given for content that is convincing and crafted, with extensive and ambitious vocabulary with sustained crafting of linguistic devices (see Paper 1 Question 5: Mark Scheme for more details).

Below, you will find an explanation of some of the key linguistic devices and language techniques you could employ in either descriptive or creative writing (click to go straight to the sub-heading)

• Overview of language techniques
• Linguistic devices

In a piece of descriptive writing, for instance, you will use sensory language to create an effective mood and clear image of the scene you are describing. Whereas, for a question which asks you to write a story, you will employ a range of language techniques, as well as sensory language, to craft character and create drama, tension or interest. Therefore, sensory language is effective when describing a scene, but to craft a character you will need to use other techniques as well, such as dialogue for characterisation or powerful verbs to describe action.  The best answers manipulate these techniques so that they successfully achieve the mood you wish to create.  

In your answer you must:

• Use language techniques and linguistic devices appropriately for the task
• Avoid the over-use of a particular technique for a sophisticated response which gets the highest marks

Question 5 tests your ability to adapt your writing for a particular purpose. You will have already analysed a section of fiction writing in Section A, and in Question 5 you are asked to apply this knowledge to your own writing and create a text which is constructed in an appropriate manner. 

When planning your answer to Question 5 it is vital to spend time thinking about your choice of response. This means you should consider if you want to craft a story or describe the scene. It is best to choose the option which suits your style of writing or which you think will be easiest to form ideas around. 

When considering your choice of language and the techniques you wish to employ, you must always remember that you are making deliberate choices for effect. It is important to consider the connotations of words and phrases, and how these may add depth to your writing. For example, do your word choices evoke certain emotions or feelings in the reader, or do they reveal aspects of a character’s personality, background or emotions? You should employ the principle of ‘show, not tell’ in order to bring your writing to life in the reader’s mind.

Below you will find a brief explanation of some of the key techniques you could employ in your descriptive or creative writing:

Device or technique	Explanation	Example
Repetition	Of a word, phrase, image or idea. This is much more effective if you think of repetition as a motif that you use throughout your piece of writing	Throughout life, I have learnt to never give up: never give up on my dreams; never give up on my hopes and never give up on myself.
Alliteration	Remember, the words starting with the same consonant sound do not have to be consecutive. Consider the effect you are trying to achieve through the use of alliteration	The swirling mist silently settled on the sleeping town.
Metaphor	A great way to create atmosphere at the start of your writing is by personifying the setting to your story or description	The weary old tree, its gnarled branches outstretched like weathered arms, whispered ancient wisdom to the breeze.
Onomatopoeia	The representation of sound on paper should be more sophisticated than comic-book terms such as “boom”. It is also not helpful to put onomatopoeic words all in capital letters. Consider sound as a way of evoking the senses in order to create atmosphere	The crackling fire whispered its secrets along with the gentle pop and sizzle of the logs as they surrendered to the flames.
Simile	A simple comparison using “like” or “as” should be used sparingly, as this creates more impact	Her smile was as radiant as the early morning sun on a summer’s day.
Imagery	Engages the reader’s senses by using vivid and detailed language to create an image in the reader’s mind	The sun-kissed waves crashed against the golden shore, their frothy white caps glistening in the morning light.
Juxtaposition	Places two contrasting ideas, images or concepts side by side to highlight their differences or create a striking effect	Thе еlеgant ballroom was adornеd with еxquisitе chandеliеrs and finе artwork, whilе thе servants' quartеrs bеlow hеld nothing but barе walls.
Emotive language	Words or phrases that are intentionally used to evoke a strong emotional response in the reader	The devastating aftermath left a trail of destruction, sorrow and misery.
Power verbs	Verbs are doing, action or being words. Power verbs are the deliberate, interesting choice of verb to help the reader picture what you are writing. They can be especially useful for characterisation	The man stooped, bumbling slowly towards the entrance.
Pathetic fallacy	The ability to evoke a specific mood or feeling that reflects a character’s internal or emotional state	The lonely road beckoned him onwards with no end in sight.

Overview

An engaging piece of writing effectively employs the relevant language techniques  A convincing response emphasises key ideas using imagery and sensory language  Descriptive language is used to convey the experience of being in a place A story will include other techniques, such as the development of character, with character interactions and dialogue