Important note: This question is essentially the same as Paper 1 Question 2 (it's just worth slightly more marks). As a result, the step by step video below is the same video. Use the exact same method! The only difference is that you will be looking at non-fiction (real life) texts. As a result, language techniques such as 'facts' and 'statistics' will be more likely to come up.
Because this is GCSE English Language (not literature) you absolutely have to focus on specific words/phrases for your answer. You can't just talk generally about the text.
You absolutely must discuss the effect of the language/words that you pick out. For example, if you say the author has used the adjective "giant" to describe the mountain, you must talk about why the author chose that particular word. Why would they use giant rather than just big? Try to picture both and think what the difference is. You CANNOT just say something vague like, "it makes the text more interesting" or "it helps me to picture it." You will not get marks if you do this.
An example of something good to say would be, "The word 'giant' makes me think the mountain a huge creature in the landscape." An even better explanation would then go on to explain why the author wants you to imagine that the mountain is alive.
Key points to consider:
Read the question carefully - they will usually give you a specific subject to look at e.g. "the weather"
Use planning tables to help you practice language skills, until you're comfortable enough to answer these questions without one.
Pick out words/phrases that you find interesting and have something to say about. Make sure these examples match the question too! Don't just try to find the language devices/techniques.
Make sure your paragraphs you write link back to the question.
For each point or quotation that you look at, write one full paragraph. If you list lots of points together, you won't have the space to fully explain each one.
Don't use vague or simple explanations such as, "it makes the text more memorable." These aren't specific to the text you've been given.
You need to aim to write at least 2-3 paragraphs for this question.