Unit 1: Taking a Stand (Non-Literary Texts)
PEEL Paragraph Structure
PEEL is a structured method used to build analytical paragraphs.
- P – Point: A clear sentence stating the argument your paragraph will prove.
- E – Evidence: Direct quotations or examples from the text that support your point.
- E – Explanation: An explanation of how the evidence proves your point.
- L – Link: A sentence that connects the paragraph to the wider argument or next idea.
Breakdown of PEEL
Point
The main idea of the paragraph. It should be one clear, focused sentence.
Evidence
Relevant quotations or details from the text that directly support the point.
Explanation
Analysis explaining how and why the evidence proves the point.
Link
A connection back to the thesis or forward to the next paragraph.
PAFT Framework
The PAFT framework is used to analyse non-literary texts such as speeches.
- P – Purpose
- A – Audience
- F – Form
- T – Tone
Purpose
The purpose refers to what the text is trying to achieve, such as persuading, informing, analysing, or discussing an idea.
- Identify the main goal of the speech
- Support with evidence from the text
- Link the purpose to the historical or social context
- Recognise that a speech may have multiple purposes
Audience
The audience refers to the people the speech was delivered to.
- Identify the intended audience
- Explain why the speech was delivered to this group
- Consider audience demographics
- Link audience to context
Form
The form of the text is a speech.
- Mention if it was originally an oral presentation
- Connect form to purpose and audience
- Identify point of view
- Note direct address
- Identify stylistic and persuasive devices
- Discuss conventions of speech writing
- Analyse logos, pathos, and ethos
Tone
Tone refers to the attitude of the speaker toward the subject and audience.
- Identify the dominant tone using precise language
- Link tone to purpose
- Comment on formality
- Analyse tone shifts throughout the speech
- Explain why tone changes occur
- Link tone to audience response
- Include mood and theme
Thesis Statement
A thesis statement must clearly explain what the analysis will examine and how the text will be analysed.
Textual Analysis Structure
- Introduction and brief summary of the text
- Thesis statement
- PAFT analysis
- Conclusion summarising findings
Story Writing – Exposition
An effective story exposition introduces key elements and sets up the narrative.
What a Good Exposition Includes
- Introduction to the setting
- Introduction to characters
- Relationships between characters
- Sub-genre conventions
- Tone and mood
- Upcoming conflict
- An inciting incident or cliff-hanger
English – Writing Tasks & Notes
Story Writing Task
Using the following picture prompt, write a story exposition of about 350–500 words
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Short Story Review
A good short story review should include:
1. Introduction
In the introduction, you should include some basic facts about the story, including the title, the author, and the story genre. You should also give your opinion of the story, along with reasons for liking or disliking it.
2. Summary
Briefly summarise the story. Discuss the setting, the main character(s), and the main events or problems the characters experience. Do not give the ending away.
3. Personal Reflection
Discuss what you like or dislike about the story. Support your opinion with reasons. You may compare the story with other texts by the same author or in the same genre, or relate it to personal experiences or current events.
4. Critical Analysis
- What is the author’s purpose for writing the story?
- Is the author successful in achieving this purpose?
- Is the setting appropriate to the genre?
- How well are the characters developed?
- Are the characters believable in their thoughts, speech, and actions?
- Is the plot well-structured and suspenseful?
- Is the theme clear?
- Does the story include a lesson or coda?
- Is there a twist or unexpected ending?
- Are literary devices such as metaphor, simile, or alliteration used?
5. Conclusion
Evaluate the story and state whether you would recommend it to others, giving clear reasons for your opinion.
Before writing the review, ensure you have read the story fully.
Short Story Text
Prince Duckington Jr. was duckish royalty, and one could tell just by looking at him, after all, he wasn’t raised by your average duckler (duck butler) but his mother- Queen Ducky the first. Not only this, he stayed in the Duckingham palace, a habitat constructed by the large creatures that was so xanthic it would make any duck envious. On this day, the skies were azure, the sunlight pulchritudinous and the day so effervescent you couldn’t help but go outside. Whilst this type of travel was seen as a luxury by most ducks, it was routine for Prince Duckington to go by the translucent lake for lunch, which his duckler- Duckentler- would prepare on site whilst he and his mother sat and quacked. “Duckington, we must discuss a matter” Ducky disclosed, going on before Duckington could even quack back “I know about your..quack…..girlduck”
“Duckinia??? No it’s not, h-hhow– I’m sor–” Duckington started to quack before his mother cut him off yet again “No worries, but you understand, we cannot afford a scandal” quack quack “Especially not after your father’s affair with that hooman” Ducky finished “I understand” prince duckington replied, already considering how to handle breaking off, how to handle the pain of loosing duckinia, the fear of not being able to form a nest together clawing at the back of his mind “To avoid this, we must get the two off you married off as soon as possible- before the next duck moon” just as duckington started to absorb this information, Ducky continued “I have made arrangements for us to meet today, in fact” she finished “Wait- arrangements, what?” just as Duckington said this, his beloved duckinia came out of hiding Duckinia was a winsome young duck, whilst she was an orphan who grew her whole life in poverty- this only added to her charm in Duckington's eyes. “So, Duckinia. May I know how you met my son?” opened ducky.
“Um- quack- well” Duckinia swallowed “Well Duckington was out for one of his walks, when he stumbled upon me, it was love at first sight and we never stopped quacking as of yet” she finally replied, nervous but sounding more put together “I see” quacked Ducky in response, just as the duckler served up freshly caught fish But this fish was nothing like the kind duckinia had ever seen before, it was turned black by a fire and the bones had been plucked out entirely. Ducky gestured at her son and he knew instantly it was the right time “Duckinia, I have a query for you” duckington tuned over to Duckinia “It has been 4 duck moons since our paths have clashed. I can go ahead and quack with you forever. So that is why I would like to ask you…” Duckinia already knew what the question would be, she was so excited she started to have quackups ( duck hiccups) Duckington continued “Will you quack with me forever, we can float together on the lake, you can bear my eggs. Duckinia, will you marry me?”
“Yes, Yes a million ducks yes!!” Duckinia squealed in poorly contained excitement
And so it was to be, Duckinia and Prince Duckington Jr were to be married on the auspicious egg moon, until which they would keep the tradition of not seeing each other
The day of the wedding rolled around and Duckington was finally allowed to meet Duckinia, he combed his feathers and got dressed before going directly to her enclosure. He just caught sight of her when
Task: write a story review o the given short story, gold members may check their answer with our Ai Study Bot
Paper 1 – Narrative Writing
Task: Write a short story based the given image.
Script Writing
A script is a narrative written mainly in dialogue form, similar to a play or movie. Scripts typically include:
- Title
- Playwright or writer
- Characters (protagonist, antagonist, side characters)
- Setting
- Dialogue
- Stage directions (lighting, sound, props)
What Makes a Good Script?
- Includes the seven elements of a narrative
- Has a clear theme
- Uses subtext effectively
- Applies stylistic devices appropriately
- Avoids overly flowery language
- Feels realistic and grounded
Additional Information
Scripts can adapt existing stories or be entirely original. Most screenplays follow a three-act structure: set-up, conflict, and resolution.
Script Formatting Rules
- 12 pt Courier font
- Scene headings (INT./EXT. – LOCATION – TIME)
- Character names in capitals
- Centered dialogue
- Minimal parentheticals
- Transitions such as CUT TO or FADE OUT
Film, Poetry & Screenplay Analysis (IB Language & Literature)
📽️ Film Analysis
What is Film Analysis?
Film analysis is the study of how meaning is created in films using visual, sound, and narrative techniques. In IB terms, film is a non-literary text.
Key Elements of Film Analysis
1. Narrative
- Plot: What happens in the film
- Story: Events in chronological order
- Conflict: Main problem driving the film
- Resolution: How the conflict ends
2. Cinematography (Camera Work)
How the camera is used to convey meaning.
Camera Shots
- Close-up: Shows emotion
- Medium shot: Shows body language
- Long shot: Shows setting
- Extreme long shot: Establishes location
Camera Angles
- High angle: Makes subject look weak
- Low angle: Makes subject look powerful
- Eye-level: Neutral
3. Mise-en-scène
Everything visible within a frame.
- Setting
- Lighting
- Costume
- Props
- Facial expressions
Example: Dark lighting suggests mystery or danger.
4. Sound
- Diegetic sound: Dialogue, footsteps
- Non-diegetic sound: Background music, narration
- Silence: Builds tension
5. Editing
- Cuts: Change of shots
- Montage: Series of quick shots
- Cross-cutting: Two scenes shown alternately
- Pacing: Speed of a scene
6. Themes & Messages
- Power
- Identity
- Conflict
- Love
- Justice
- Society
IB Tip: Always link technique → effect → meaning.
✍️ Screenplay
What is a Screenplay?
A screenplay is the written script of a film, including dialogue, actions, and scene directions.
Features of a Screenplay
1. Scene Headings
Indicate location and time.
INT. ROOM – NIGHT
2. Dialogue
- Shows character personality
- Moves the plot forward
- Reveals conflict
3. Stage Directions
- Describe actions and emotions
- Guide actors and directors
4. Visual Storytelling
- Show, don’t tell
- Meaning is conveyed through actions
Screenplay vs Novel
| Screenplay | Novel |
|---|---|
| Visual | Descriptive |
| Short dialogue | Inner thoughts |
| Action-based | Detailed narration |
📜 Poetry Through the Ages
What is Poetry?
Poetry is a literary form that uses language creatively to express emotions, ideas, and experiences.
Major Periods of Poetry
- Classical: Structure, mythology, epic poems
- Renaissance: Love, beauty, time, mortality
- Romantic: Nature, emotion, individualism
- Victorian: Social issues, morality, industrialization
- Modern: Free verse, alienation
- Contemporary: Identity, politics, personal voice
🖋️ Poem Analysis (IB Method)
- Identify Theme: What is the poem about?
- Analyze Language: Imagery, metaphors, symbols
- Analyze Structure: Rhyme, rhythm, line breaks
- Effect on Reader: Emotions and ideas created
👑 Shakespeare Poetry Analysis
Common Themes
- Love
- Time
- Beauty
- Death
Shakespearean Sonnet Structure
- 14 lines
- Iambic pentameter
- Rhyme scheme: ABAB CDCD EFEF GG
Techniques
- Metaphor
- Personification
- Volta (turning point)
Effect: Logical argument with a memorable rhyming couplet ending.
🖤 Edgar Allan Poe Poetry Analysis
Themes
- Death
- Madness
- Loss
- Supernatural
Language & Style
- Dark imagery
- Musical rhythm
- Repetition
- Symbolism
Example: The Raven
- Repetition: “Nevermore”
- Symbolism: Raven = grief or death
- Alliteration: Musical effect
- Mood: Melancholic and haunting
Effect on Reader: Psychological tension and despair.
The Raven By Edgar Alan Poe
Read the text and construct a poetry analysis, you may get this checked by an english teacher or ai study bot for our gold members
Once upon a midnight dreary, while I pondered, weak and weary, Over many a quaint and curious volume of forgotten lore— While I nodded, nearly napping, suddenly there came a tapping, As of some one gently rapping, rapping at my chamber door. “’Tis some visitor,” I muttered, “tapping at my chamber door— Only this and nothing more.” Ah, distinctly I remember it was in the bleak December; And each separate dying ember wrought its ghost upon the floor. Eagerly I wished the morrow;—vainly I had sought to borrow From my books surcease of sorrow—sorrow for the lost Lenore— For the rare and radiant maiden whom the angels name Lenore— Nameless here for evermore. And the silken, sad, uncertain rustling of each purple curtain Thrilled me—filled me with fantastic terrors never felt before; So that now, to still the beating of my heart, I stood repeating “’Tis some visitor entreating entrance at my chamber door— Some late visitor entreating entrance at my chamber door;— This it is and nothing more.” Presently my soul grew stronger; hesitating then no longer, “Sir,” said I, “or Madam, truly your forgiveness I implore; But the fact is I was napping, and so gently you came rapping, And so faintly you came tapping, tapping at my chamber door, That I scarce was sure I heard you”—here I opened wide the door;— Darkness there and nothing more. Deep into that darkness peering, long I stood there wondering, fearing, Doubting, dreaming dreams no mortal ever dared to dream before; But the silence was unbroken, and the stillness gave no token, And the only word there spoken was the whispered word, “Lenore?” This I whispered, and an echo murmured back the word, “Lenore!”— Merely this and nothing more. Back into the chamber turning, all my soul within me burning, Soon again I heard a tapping somewhat louder than before. “Surely,” said I, “surely that is something at my window lattice; Let me see, then, what thereat is, and this mystery explore— Let my heart be still a moment and this mystery explore;— ’Tis the wind and nothing more!” Open here I flung the shutter, when, with many a flirt and flutter, In there stepped a stately Raven of the saintly days of yore; Not the least obeisance made he; not a minute stopped or stayed he; But, with mien of lord or lady, perched above my chamber door— Perched upon a bust of Pallas just above my chamber door— Perched, and sat, and nothing more. Then this ebony bird beguiling my sad fancy into smiling, By the grave and stern decorum of the countenance it wore, “Though thy crest be shorn and shaven, thou,” I said, “art sure no craven, Ghastly grim and ancient Raven wandering from the Nightly shore— Tell me what thy lordly name is on the Night’s Plutonian shore!” Quoth the Raven “Nevermore.” Much I marvelled this ungainly fowl to hear discourse so plainly, Though its answer little meaning—little relevancy bore; For we cannot help agreeing that no living human being Ever yet was blessed with seeing bird above his chamber door— Bird or beast upon the sculptured bust above his chamber door, With such name as “Nevermore.” But the Raven, sitting lonely on the placid bust, spoke only That one word, as if his soul in that one word he did outpour. Nothing farther then he uttered—not a feather then he fluttered— Till I scarcely more than muttered “Other friends have flown before— On the morrow he will leave me, as my Hopes have flown before.” Then the bird said “Nevermore.” Startled at the stillness broken by reply so aptly spoken, “Doubtless,” said I, “what it utters is its only stock and store Caught from some unhappy master whom unmerciful Disaster Followed fast and followed faster till his songs one burden bore— Till the dirges of his Hope that melancholy burden bore Of ‘Never—nevermore’.” But the Raven still beguiling all my fancy into smiling, Straight I wheeled a cushioned seat in front of bird, and bust and door; Then, upon the velvet sinking, I betook myself to linking Fancy unto fancy, thinking what this ominous bird of yore— What this grim, ungainly, ghastly, gaunt, and ominous bird of yore Meant in croaking “Nevermore.” This I sat engaged in guessing, but no syllable expressing To the fowl whose fiery eyes now burned into my bosom’s core; This and more I sat divining, with my head at ease reclining On the cushion’s velvet lining that the lamp-light gloated o’er, But whose velvet-violet lining with the lamp-light gloating o’er, She shall press, ah, nevermore! Then, methought, the air grew denser, perfumed from an unseen censer Swung by Seraphim whose foot-falls tinkled on the tufted floor. “Wretch,” I cried, “thy God hath lent thee—by these angels he hath sent thee Respite—respite and nepenthe from thy memories of Lenore; Quaff, oh quaff this kind nepenthe and forget this lost Lenore!” Quoth the Raven “Nevermore.” “Prophet!” said I, “thing of evil!—prophet still, if bird or devil!— Whether Tempter sent, or whether tempest tossed thee here ashore, Desolate yet all undaunted, on this desert land enchanted— On this home by Horror haunted—tell me truly, I implore— Is there—is there balm in Gilead?—tell me—tell me, I implore!” Quoth the Raven “Nevermore.” “Prophet!” said I, “thing of evil!—prophet still, if bird or devil! By that Heaven that bends above us—by that God we both adore— Tell this soul with sorrow laden if, within the distant Aidenn, It shall clasp a sainted maiden whom the angels name Lenore— Clasp a rare and radiant maiden whom the angels name Lenore.” Quoth the Raven “Nevermore.” “Be that word our sign of parting, bird or fiend!” I shrieked, upstarting— “Get thee back into the tempest and the Night’s Plutonian shore! Leave no black plume as a token of that lie thy soul hath spoken! Leave my loneliness unbroken!—quit the bust above my door! Take thy beak from out my heart, and take thy form from off my door!” Quoth the Raven “Nevermore.” And the Raven, never flitting, still is sitting, still is sitting On the pallid bust of Pallas just above my chamber door; And his eyes have all the seeming of a demon’s that is dreaming, And the lamp-light o’er him streaming throws his shadow on the floor; And my soul from out that shadow that lies floating on the floor Shall be lifted—nevermore!
📘 Poetic & Literary Dictionary
- Imagery: Language appealing to the senses
- Metaphor: Direct comparison
- Simile: Comparison using like or as
- Symbolism: Object representing deeper meaning
- Alliteration: Repetition of consonant sounds
- Assonance: Repetition of vowel sounds
- Enjambment: Line continues without pause
- Rhyme Scheme: Pattern of rhymes
- Mood: Emotional atmosphere
- Tone: Author’s attitude
- Theme: Central idea
- Persona: Voice speaking in a poem
- Motif: Repeated idea or image