Analysis of Non-Fictional Text

This page provides guidance on how to analyze non-fictional texts, outlining the key components and strategies for conducting a thorough textual analysis.

The introductory sentence for a non-fictional text analysis differs from that used in summary writing. It should include:

• Text type
• Text form
• Communicative goal
• Writing strategies used to achieve the communicative goal

Highlight: It is often beneficial to write the introductory sentence after completing the analysis, as this allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the text's elements.

The main part of the analysis should focus on examining the following aspects of the writing:

1. Rhetorical and stylistic devices
   • Examples include enumeration, metaphors, etc.
2. Choice of words, style, and tone
3. Structural elements and different types of text structures

Vocabulary: Rhetorical devices are techniques used in writing or speech to convey meaning, persuade, or evoke emotion.

When analyzing these elements, it's crucial to:

• Explain the effects these writing strategies have on the readership
• Demonstrate how they support the author's communicative goal
• Include quotes and text references to verify your findings

Quote: "Explain which effects these writing strategies have on the readership of a text and how exactly they support the communicative goal of the author."

How to Write a Comment

This section provides guidance on writing a comment, which is a form of expressing personal opinion on a specific topic or statement.

When writing a comment, you should:

1. In the introduction:

   • Refer to topical events or texts related to the subject
   • Include general facts and interesting information
   • Pose a question that you will answer in your conclusion

2. Present pros and cons of the issue:

   • Attempt to refute arguments that don't support your opinion
   • Two basic structures are suggested: positive/negative or negative/positive

3. Explain why certain arguments supporting your opinion outweigh others

4. Present potential future developments related to the topic

Example: A comment structure could look like this: Introduction (topic background) → Pros → Cons → Refutation of opposing arguments → Conclusion (answering the initial question)

Highlight: The ability to present a balanced view while clearly stating your own opinion is crucial in comment writing.

Writing a Summary

This page provides guidance on how to write an effective summary of a text. It outlines the key components and techniques for crafting a concise yet comprehensive summary.

The introductory sentence of a summary should include essential information about the text being summarized. This includes:

• Title of the text
• Text type (e.g. article, essay, report)
• Author's name
• Publication date and place
• Main topic or subject matter

A suggested format for the introductory sentence is provided:

Example: "The (type of text) (title) written by (author) and published in (source and date) deals with (topic)."

The outline of the summary should focus on identifying and presenting the main features, structure, or general principles of the original text.

When it comes to language use in summaries, several key points are highlighted:

• Use simple present tense
• Employ indirect speech
• Write in your own words, avoiding direct quotes
• Utilize linking words and adjectives for flow
• Avoid using short forms or contractions

The main part of the summary should concisely present the most important facts from the original text in an objective manner. Suggested transitional phrases are provided to help structure the summary:

Example: "The author introduces the text...", "He continues by...", "From the author's point of view...", "In the following paragraph...", "Finally/to sum up..."

An important distinction is made between outlining and summarizing:

Definition: Summarizing involves giving a concise account of the main points, summing up the most relevant aspects of the text in a factual and precise manner.