One of the most important skills you will develop in English this year, is analytical skills. You will encounter many different types of texts, and you will employ different types of analysis to them. In the past you have probably started learning about literary analysis, but this year you will also learn about rhetorical analysis, how to analyse language features and literary devices in different kinds of text, and we will go deeper into analyses of different kinds of literature such as short stories and poems.
What is the point?
The point of learning how to analyse texts is that it gives us tools to achieve a deeper understanding. When we become aware of different features of texts, and learn to discover the deeper meaning behind using different devices in texts, it enriches our reading experience. It also allows us to become more critical reader and thinkers. If you are able to spot the “tricks” used by political speakers in order to persuade us, we will be able to use our critical thinking skills in order to discern the true message. These skills are crucial in order to be active citizens in a functioning democracy.
Experience with analysing texts will also make you a better writer and speaker yourself. What devices can you use in order to persuade your audience? What features can you include in your text in order to make your message clearer, or how can you be creative in your use of literary devices. The more we understand how a text is structured and how a text affects the reader, the better we will become at communicating as well.