Instruction Words
This instruction word means: give reasons and make meaning clear using evidence.
explain
Tone refers to this aspect of writing.
writer's feelings/attitude
subjective or objective: "Chocolate is the best flavour”
subjective
Writing that aims to convince the reader is called this.
persuasive/argumentative
“He has a heart of stone.”
metaphor
This instruction word requires you to present multiple ideas and support them.
Discuss
Mood refers to this aspect of writing.
feeling/atmosphere created for the reader
literal or figurative: He’s a night owl
figurative
Language that is relaxed and conversational is this level of formality.
informal
“The wind whispered through the trees.”
personification
This instruction word asks you to give a judgment with strengths and weaknesses.
Critically discuss or evaluate
A writer mocking a situation by saying the opposite of what they mean is using this tone.
sarcasm
When a writer presents information without emotion or bias, the writing is described as this.
Objective
Writing that uses vivid imagery and sensory detail is this style.
descriptive
This technique repeats the same consonant sound at the beginning of words.
alliteration
This instruction word means to state something clearly, often without explanation.
identify
If a passage feels tense and uneasy, this is the mood.
anxious / suspenseful
Showing favour for a particular point of view
bias
A passage criticises society using humour, exaggeration, and irony.
Explain the writer’s style and intention.
Satirical
To criticise or expose
Saying the opposite of what you mean for effect is this technique.
irony
This instruction word requires you to weigh both sides before reaching a conclusion.
“consider whether”
Give ONE possible tone:
“Oh great, another test!”
sarcastic
This technique uses humour, irony, or exaggeration to criticise real-world issues.
Satire
A writer uses technical vocabulary and an objective tone to explain a concept.
Identify the style and purpose.
xpository/informative style (to explain clearly and factually)
“The silence was deafening.”
paradox