What You Need to Know

Key Concept Diagram

An analytical essay requires a clear thesis that states your interpretation of how the text creates meaning

Each body paragraph should make a claim, support it with textual evidence (quotes), and analyse the language choices used

The PEEL structure (Point, Evidence, Explain, Link) helps organise analytical paragraphs effectively

Metalanguage — terms for describing language features — strengthens analysis (e.g., "The metaphor conveys…", "The imperative verb creates…")

Key Vocabulary

Thesis

A clear, arguable statement of the writer's interpretation that guides the whole essay

Metalanguage

Language used to describe and analyse other language, such as naming techniques like "metaphor" or "alliteration"

PEEL

A paragraph structure: Point (claim), Evidence (quote), Explain (analysis), Link (connect back to thesis)

Textual evidence

A direct quotation or close reference to the text used to support an analytical claim

Knowledge Check

Select the correct answer for each question. Click "Check Answer" to see if you are right.

Question 1

In a PEEL paragraph, what does the "E" for "Explain" require the writer to do?

Quote the text directly Analyse how the language technique creates meaning or effect Summarise the plot of the text State the main argument of the essay

Question 2

Which sentence is the best thesis for an essay on how a poem creates a sense of isolation?

This poem is about a person who feels alone. The poet uses many different language techniques in this poem. Through the extended metaphor of winter and the fragmented syntax, the poet constructs a pervasive sense of emotional isolation. Isolation is a common theme in poetry.

Question 3

What is the role of metalanguage in analytical writing?

To retell the events of the text in sequence To make the essay longer with technical-sounding words To replace quotations with descriptions of the text To precisely name and discuss language features and their effects

Writing Analytical Essays