rashford - issue/theme Flashcards
“a system designed to fail low-income families”
The phrase “designed to fail” is a brutal statement which perfectly describes the penury filled rabbit holes that some families find themselves falling into. Also, the word “designed” emphasises that no matter what families do to try and avoid the risk of poverty, they will eventually end up trapped inside it and face the awful consequences.
“but it was not enough”
A short sentence is impactful and makes the reader pay attention to how hard Rashford’s mum worked to provide for her kids, even though she was still unable to supply meals for them on a daily basis. the phrase “not enough” draws attention to the reality of how desperate some families are for the fulfilment of their basic needs - this further emphasises…
“45% of children in black and minority ethnic groups are now in poverty”
A statistic is used to frighten and horrify the reader as nearly half of all kids in minority groups are suffering serious deprivation. The word “minority” suggests that these kids are being overlooked and not being provided with the care they deserve which highlights…
“as their stomachs grumble”
Emotive language is used to evoke sympathy in the reader whilst also shaming the government for not helping to assist the children that are in desperate need of a meal. The word “grumble” has connotations of protest and complaint which suggests that these kids are aching to get any source of nutrition and are fighting to satisfy their hunger.
“Can we not all agree that no child should be going to bed hungry?”
The use of a rhetorical question is impactful as it makes the reader reflect on the UK’s situation in regard to child hunger. Rashford is using the direct address to speak directly to the government and is trying to bring attention to the fact that there are still children out there on the brink of starvation.
“This is not about politics; this is about humanity”
This statement is impactful as it forces the reader to think about the extremely real and extremely serious struggles that other members of the public are facing. The word “humanity” emphasises that deep down everyone is the same and should be treated as equals by the government.
“I encourage you to hear their pleas and find your humanity”
Emotive language is used effectively as Rashford tugs at the heartstrings of the government. The word “plea” has connotations of requesting and begging which illustrates Rashford’s determination to make a change for a cause that has affected him his entire life.
“This is an issue that needs urgent assistance”
The word “urgent” has connotations of pressing and emergency which suggests that the UK is in a critical condition and is in need of immediate aid and support. The word “assistance” emphasises the crucial ideas and solutions the government need to provide in order to end poverty and child hunger.
“we relied on breakfast clubs, free school meals”
The word “relied” has connotations of depend and trust which suggests that Rashford and his family all pinned their hopes on others to give them a bit of extra support. The word “free” emphasises their lack of money and desperation for nutrition; this was during a time where they were struggling to put food on the table everyday.
