Cambridge A-Level English Language 9093: Command words

Cambridge International A-level English Language (9093) uses the standard Cambridge command words. The focus is on language analysis (how language creates meaning and effect) and production (creating texts for different audiences and purposes). A-level expects more developed analysis and evaluation.

Command words for analysis

Command word	What to do	Common mistake
Analyse	Examine in detail; show how language creates meaning and effect	Only identifying techniques
Comment on	Give view on language/effect; support with evidence	Unsupported
Compare	Similarities and differences	Listing separately
Contrast	Differences only	Including similarities
Describe	What the text does or shows	Adding analysis
Evaluate	Judge effectiveness; conclude with evidence	No judgement
Explain	Why or how; use evidence from text	Only describing
Identify	Find and refer to specific features	Paraphrasing when quote needed
Suggest	Infer from text; propose meaning	Stating without inference
Summarise	Main points only	Too much detail
How does the writer	Analyse technique and effect	Just identifying
To what extent	Judge degree; conclude	No judgement
What do you understand	Infer meaning; explain	Literal only

Command words for production

Command word	What to do	Common mistake
Write	Produce the specified form	Wrong form
Create	Produce text for audience/purpose	Copying style
Adapt	Change for new audience/purpose	Copy unchanged
Argue	Present a case with evidence	One-sided
Persuade	Convince the reader	Inform
Inform	Convey information	Persuade
Describe	Create picture with detail	Tell
Explain	Give reasons	Persuade

A-level emphasis

• Analysis—technique + effect + meaning (how does it work? what does it show?)
• Integrated quotations—quote and explain effect
• Evaluation—judge effectiveness; conclude
• Context—audience, purpose, genre
• Terminology—precise linguistic terms (lexis, syntax, pragmatics, etc.)

Tips for English Language 9093

1. Analyse—technique + effect, not just identification
2. Use quotations—integrate and explain
3. Evaluate—judge and conclude
4. Match form to the task (audience, purpose)
5. Past papers + mark schemes show level descriptors

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Tutopiya supports English Language 9093 with tutors who use past papers and mark schemes. Explore A-level resources or book a free trial.

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Based on Cambridge International A-level English Language 9093 syllabus. Check the latest syllabus for your exam series.