Cambridge A-Level English Language 9093: Command Words for Reading and Writing
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
- Analyse—technique + effect, not just identification
- Use quotations—integrate and explain
- Evaluate—judge and conclude
- Match form to the task (audience, purpose)
- Past papers + mark schemes show level descriptors
How Tutopiya helps
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Based on Cambridge International A-level English Language 9093 syllabus. Check the latest syllabus for your exam series.
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