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EnglandEnglish LanguageQuick questions
Component 1: Language Concepts and Issues
Quick questions on The language issues essay (Component 1 Section B): writing the discursive essay - Eduqas A-Level English Language
7short Q&A pairs drawn directly from our worked dot-point answer. For full context and worked exam questions, read the parent dot-point page.
What is argue a case, do not survey a topic?Show answer
The single most important move is to argue. Every language issues question invites a position (Is Standard English superior? Does advertising exercise power by relationship rather than command? Do children learn by imitation?), and the essay must take and defend one.
What is structure the discursive essay?Show answer
A clear discursive structure carries the argument and supplies AO1 expression marks: an introduction that states the position and signposts the argument, body paragraphs that each make a point, support it with a concept and example, and develop it, a paragraph or two engaging the counter-view, and a conclusion that reaches an evidenced judgement. Plan this shape briefly before writing so the argument has a direction.
What is a model argued opening?Show answer
"The claim that Standard English is 'better' than other varieties confuses prestige with quality. This essay argues, from a descriptivist position, that Standard English is a socially dominant dialect rather than a linguistically superior one, that non-standard varieties are equally rule-governed, and that attitudes to variation are social, not linguistic, while acknowledging the real social consequences of those attitudes." This states a position and signposts the argument, rather than opening with a definition dump.
What is a model critical use of a concept?Show answer
"Fairclough's synthetic personalisation does not merely describe friendly advertising; it explains how an anonymous, mass message manufactures a personal relationship through direct address and assumed shared values, so that influential power operates by rapport rather than command. Applied to the advert's inclusive 'we' and presupposing phrasing, the concept shows the power is real but relational." This argues with a concept and an example, rather than naming it.
What is q1?Show answer
What is the difference between arguing a case and surveying a topic? [2 marks]
What is q2?Show answer
Which assessment objective dominates the language issues essay, and what does it reward? [2 marks]
What is q3?Show answer
Write a discursive essay arguing a critical position on a language issue of your choice, with concepts and examples. [18 marks]
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