Having read a copious amount of responses, here are some tips.
The task is: “Write an analysis of the ways in which argument and written and visual language are used in the material… to persuade others to share the points of view presented.”
You must clearly identify the “point of view” that must be “shared”. The “point of view” determines, defines and influences the “techniques and the “written” language. It is your starting point; it also determines the “positioning strategies”.
Failure to clearly identify “points of view”, means that you are listing and skitting over the surface (aimlessly) – without structure and hence without polish.
It also means you will not be able to delve deeply into the “ways” in which the language is used to “persuade” (ie positioning strategies and impact, intended effects etc.) (Keep in mind, the most prevalent feedback from teachers is “more on position”; “what is the impact of this?”
Be careful of a chronological discussion: if the author begins with lengthy background material, you will get dragged into summarising the author’s analysis of a problem. You must locate “points of view” in order to be able to analyse “the ways in which …”
To achieve a high mark you will need to compare viewpoints. The similarities and differences in “points of view” will also determine your comparative strategies.
