GCSE English Language: Language Techniques Revision

Language Techniques is a core part of GCSE English Language. Revise the key concepts and common mistakes below, then lock them in with the free games.

Key concepts

AnecdoteBrief personal story used as evidence

StatisticA number-based fact that boosts authority

Expert opinionQuoting an authority to lend weight

AlliterationRepetition of initial consonant sounds

Pronoun shiftSwitching pronouns ('I'→'we'→'you') for effect

ImperativeA command — 'Act now', 'Listen'

EthosPersuasion through speaker's credibility/character

PathosPersuasion through emotion

LogosPersuasion through logic and reason

AntithesisContrast of opposites in balanced phrasing

EpistropheRepetition at the END of clauses

AsyndetonOmission of conjunctions — 'I came, I saw.'

AnaphoraRepeating a word/phrase at the START of clauses

TripletThree of something for rhythmic emphasis

Common mistakes to avoid

Questions where students often pick the tempting wrong answer — make sure you know the right one:

What is an apostrophe for?✗ Making a word plural. ✓ Showing possession or omission (contractions).

What does analysing non-fiction involve?✗ Summarising what the text says. ✓ Examining how language and structure achieve the writer's purpose.

Practise Language Techniques — free games

Test yourself with these quick revision games for this topic:

▶ Two Truths, One Lie ▶ Reveal Race ▶ Connections Grid ▶ Falling Words ▶ Word Web

See all 17 games in the Subjects Arcade →

Language Techniques

Key concepts

Common mistakes to avoid

Practise Language Techniques — free games

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