Responding Analytically and Persuasively
Two modes, two logics
An analytical response explains how a text works; a persuasive response argues a position. Both need a clear thesis, ordered paragraphs, evidence and a conclusion that does more than repeat the introduction.
Analytical responses
Build a thesis that answers the question's exact terms. Each body paragraph should make one claim, support it with a short quotation or described textual feature, analyse the effect, and link back to the thesis. Avoid retelling the plot; the marker already knows the text. Use analytical verbs - positions, constructs, foregrounds, undermines, invites, challenges - rather than shows or talks about.
Persuasive responses
Establish a stance in the opening, then use a deliberate progression of arguments, each with evidence (statistics, examples, expert views, anecdote). Anticipate and rebut the strongest counterargument; this demonstrates control. Rhetorical devices - tricolon, rhetorical questions, inclusive 'we', concession - should serve the argument, not decorate it. A concession sentence ('While cost is a genuine concern, …') followed by a rebuttal is highly effective.
Concepts to master
- Thesis versus topic; every paragraph must advance the thesis.
- Concession and rebuttal; distinguishing assertion from evidence.
- Cohesive devices: signposting, topic sentences, transitions, pronoun reference.
- Audience positioning and register consistency.
- The difference between describing a technique and evaluating its effectiveness.
Traps
Ignoring part of a two-part question; writing feature-spotting instead of argument; unsupported generalisations in persuasive writing; shifting between first and third person randomly; and conclusions that introduce new evidence.
Worked example (persuasive): Thesis: 'School start times should be delayed because adolescent sleep cycles are biologically shifted.' Paragraph: claim → evidence (sleep research) → concession ('Opponents cite transport costs') → rebuttal ('staggered bus schedules absorb this') → link.