P2 Reading — AO2 (Paper 2, Section A)
AO2 on Paper 2 asks you to analyse how each writer uses language, form, and structure to convey meaning, viewpoint, and effect — but now applied to non-fiction texts (articles, speeches, autobiography, travel writing, journalism).
Non-fiction techniques to analyse
Non-fiction uses many of the same devices as fiction (imagery, diction, sentence variety), but also its own genre conventions:
Rhetorical devices:
- Rhetorical question (challenges/engages reader)
- Anaphora (repetition for persuasive momentum)
- Triadic list (memorable and cumulative)
- Direct address (creates personal connection)
- Hyperbole (exaggerates for effect)
- Emotive language (appeals to feelings)
Structural features (non-fiction specific):
- Opening with a statistic or anecdote (grabs attention)
- Juxtaposition of viewpoints (presents both sides before arguing one)
- Counterargument then rebuttal (shows fairness before dismissing)
- Testimony or quotation from an authority
- Closing call to action
Form features:
- Article headline as argument (pre-reading positioning)
- Letter conventions (implies personal relationship)
- Speech conventions (directly addresses audience)
The analysis method — same PAZ, new examples
The PAZ method works for non-fiction too:
- P: Name the technique (e.g. "emotive language")
- A: Short quotation
- Z: Zoom into the exact word; explore connotations; consider how a reader responds
⚠Common mistakes— Common mistakes in P2 AO2
- Analysing fiction techniques (pathetic fallacy, etc.) when the text is journalism — not wrong, but shows you haven't noticed the genre.
- Commenting on structure at sentence level only — also comment on the structure of the whole argument (e.g. how it opens/closes).
- Forgetting to consider why the non-fiction writer made this choice — they want to persuade, inform, or challenge.
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