Understanding Text Types

Paper 2 Section A may present any of a wide range of non-fiction text types. Understanding the conventions, features, and typical purposes of each text type will help you read the extracts more effectively and analyse them with greater confidence. This lesson provides a detailed guide to the most common text types you may encounter.

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Why Text Type Matters

Knowing the text type helps you:

• Anticipate the purpose — A speech is designed to be spoken and persuade; a diary entry is private and reflective.
• Identify the audience — A newspaper article is written for the general public; a personal letter has a specific recipient.
• Understand the conventions — Each text type has expected features (e.g. a speech uses direct address; a letter has a salutation and sign-off).
• Analyse the writer's choices — Why has the writer chosen this form? How do the conventions shape the language?

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Text Type Reference Guide

1. Newspaper and Magazine Articles