In a piece of descriptive writing, for instance, you will use sensory language to create an effective mood and clear image of the scene you are describing. Whereas, for a question which asks you to write a story, you will employ a range of language techniques, as well as sensory language, to craft character and create drama, tension or interest. Therefore, sensory language is effective when describing a scene, but to craft a character you will need to use other techniques as well, such as dialogue for characterisation or powerful verbs to describe action. The best answers manipulate these techniques so that they successfully achieve the mood you wish to create.
In your answer you must:
- Use language techniques and linguistic devices appropriately for the task
- Avoid the over-use of a particular technique for a sophisticated response which gets the highest marks
Question 5 tests your ability to adapt your writing for a particular purpose. You will have already analysed a section of fiction writing in Section A, and in Question 5 you are asked to apply this knowledge to your own writing and create a text which is constructed in an appropriate manner.
When planning your answer to Question 5 it is vital to spend time thinking about your choice of response. This means you should consider if you want to craft a story or describe the scene. It is best to choose the option which suits your style of writing or which you think will be easiest to form ideas around.