Writing Critically

Question 1

How to critically engage theories

Answer 1

Is it based off a stereotype (gender or ethnic group)
Too simplistic or making assumptions
What research is the theory based on
Is the theory outdated

Question 2

Representation

Answer 2

examiners are looking to see how you can see what representations are presented and how they have been generated/created through the language used.
How are these represented to you:
Events
People
Issues
Opinions Actions/Behaviours
Ideas
Feelings
Identities

Question 3

Ideological positions

Answer 3

Think what the writer’s ideologies maybe- are they traditional, common or against societal normalities.
How were these formed (social/personal maybe)

Question 4

Writing from examiner comments (paper1)

Answer 4

Make sure then, that you begin your analysis by comparing the texts mode, audience, genre and purpose as we have previously discussed- do you know what they text is about and how it has been constructed?
Does it follow the conventions of that style of writing?

Having a solid grasp of what is being discussed and what is being said about those subjects is a way into dealing with how those ideas are put across.

Find patterns across texts