LGCSE English Language flashcards

32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

Own words requirement

Rewriting source material so that no three or more consecutive words are copied. Change word class, sentence order, and vocabulary while preserving the original meaning exactly.

Content versus quality marks

In summary tasks, content marks reward selecting the right points; quality marks reward concise, accurate, own-words writing focused on the question. Both sets must be earned separately.

Command word scope

The verb in a question fixes the answer shape: state gives one point, explain adds a reason, describe adds detail, analyse adds method and effect.

Inference with evidence

An inference is a conclusion not directly stated. Full marks require the inference plus a quotation or close reference proving it is grounded in the text.

Line-range restriction

When a question specifies particular lines or a paragraph, only evidence from that section earns marks, even if relevant material appears elsewhere in the passage.

Simile and metaphor

A simile compares using 'like' or 'as'; a metaphor states one thing is another without such words. Both must be explained for effect, not merely identified.

Personification

Giving human qualities to non-human things, such as weather, objects, or animals. It is analysed by naming the human quality and its emotional effect on the reader.

Pathetic fallacy

A form of personification where weather or setting reflects mood, such as storm clouds for tension. It is a technique, not a description of sadness itself.

Sentence types

Simple has one clause; compound joins independent clauses with a conjunction; complex joins a main clause to a subordinate clause. Minor sentences lack a finite verb.

Structural shift

A deliberate change of focus, time, place, or perspective within a text. Analysed by explaining what the reader knows before and after the change.

Cyclical structure

A text that ends by returning to its opening image, phrase, or setting. It creates a sense of closure or shows how the narrator's understanding has changed.

Connotation

The associations a word carries beyond its literal meaning. 'Slim' and 'skinny' denote the same but carry different connotations, affecting tone and reader response.

Rule of three

Listing three items or ideas for rhythm and emphasis, common in persuasive writing. Its effect is memorability and a sense of completeness or momentum.

Direct address

Using 'you' or 'we' to speak to the audience. It creates involvement and shared responsibility, and is a defining feature of speeches and opinion articles.

Counter-argument rebuttal

Acknowledging the opposing view, then dismantling it. It strengthens a case by showing the writer has weighed alternatives rather than ignored them.

Bias by omission

Bias created by leaving out evidence or opposing views rather than by distorting what is included. It is identified by asking what a balanced account would also contain.

Tone identification

The writer's attitude conveyed through word choice and sentence style, such as indignant, wry, measured, or alarmist. Tone is distinct from the writer's viewpoint.

Fact versus opinion

Facts are verifiable statements; opinions contain evaluative judgement. Persuasive texts often blend both, presenting opinion in the grammatical form of fact.

Letter conventions

Formal letters require addresses, a salutation such as 'Dear Sir or Madam', structured paragraphs, and a sign-off matching the salutation, with no contractions or slang.

Speech conventions

Speeches open with a greeting to the named audience, use direct address throughout, and close with a call to action or thanks. Contractions are acceptable.

Article conventions

Articles carry a headline, sometimes a subheading and byline, short punchy paragraphs, and a clear angle. They may address the reader directly.

Register matching

Adjusting formality, vocabulary, and sentence length to the specified audience and purpose. A mismatch, such as slang in a formal letter, is penalised.

Thesis statement

A single sentence stating the writer's central position, usually placed in the opening paragraph. Every later paragraph should support or defend it.

Call to action

A closing instruction telling the audience what to do, such as sign, boycott, or donate. It is the standard ending of persuasive speeches and leaflets.

Discourse markers

Words signalling relationships between ideas, such as 'however', 'therefore', 'similarly', and 'ultimately'. They guide the reader through an argument's structure.

Show, don't tell

Conveying emotion through concrete physical detail and action rather than naming the feeling. 'Her hands shook' shows nervousness; 'she was nervous' merely tells it.

In medias res

Opening a narrative in the middle of the action rather than with background. It creates immediate pace and allows backstory to be revealed later.

Sensory description

Writing that engages sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste. Using several senses makes a setting vivid and is rewarded in descriptive tasks.

Dialogue punctuation

Speech marks enclose spoken words; a comma separates speech from the reporting clause; each new speaker starts a new line with the full stop inside the closing speech mark.

Comma splice

Two independent clauses joined by a comma with no conjunction. It is corrected with a full stop, semicolon, or coordinating conjunction such as 'but'.

Semicolon and colon

A semicolon links two related independent clauses; a colon introduces a list, explanation, or quotation after a complete clause. They are not interchangeable.

Apostrophe rules

Apostrophes mark omission (it's = it is) or possession (the dog's bowl, the dogs' bowls). 'Its' is possessive and takes no apostrophe; 'who's' means 'who is'.