Using more metalanguag

e in your Reading &

Responding essay etc

Analysis of the ways in which the author constructed meaning in the selected text with use of appropriate metalanguage, and analysis of the social, historical and/or cultural values embodied in the selected text

(8 marks)

    Ability to draw on textual evidence to support

analysis and develop an interpretation and a demonstrated understanding of the ways in which the text is open to different interpretations (8 marks)

1. use of appropriate metalanguage,

2. social, historical and/or cultural values

3. ways in which the text is open to different interpretations

Use of appropriate metalanguage.

Reasons for using metalanguage:1. Enhances your expression

(Makes it easier to discuss things in detail)

2. Keeps you talking about the author's intention

3. Adds sophistication

You are expected to be able to identify and actively use the appropriate metalanguage to discuss the texts. Some of the most useful metalanguage words are:

author: authorial voicepoint of view: first, second, third person, omniscient 

narrator, unreliable narratorcharacters: protagonist, antagonist, secondary characterstructure: framed narrative, epistolary, exposition, 

turning points, climax, dénouement, resolution, flashback, conflict

style: framed narrative, metaphor, simile, motif, imagery, symbolism, tone, irony

How to use metalanguage.

Look for ways in which you can insert words like these into your paragraphs. For example, instead of writing, “In the story…”, write, “Throughout the narrative,…”.

It helps if you have a list of useful metalanguage words in front of you when you are writing your essay.

At first, you may need to force yourself to use them.

Example sentences

Avarind Adiga explores the idea of corruption nd greed in the framed narrative that is The White Tiger.

Adiga’s framed narrative gradually reveals….

The metaphorical title alerts the audience to the significance of ….

The setting of Balram’s India as portrayed by Adiga is seen as….

The theme of survival links characters together by…

The protagonist of the text, Balram, invites/evokes sympathy/empathy/condemnation because…

In The White Tiger, Adiga explores the theme of capitalisation gone wrong against a backdrop of corruption and greed...

In his novel The White Tiger, Avarind Adiga challenges beliefs that…

Example sentences

Avarind Adiga’s symbolic use of the chandelier alerts the reader to the idea that Balram is …

As the motif of the chandelier reappears throughout the narrative, the reader understands that Adiga’s purpose is to reveal Balram’s greedy and superficial characteristics. 

Adiga exposes the ugly and metaphorically cannibalistic  habits that those who refuse to acquiesce to the demands of a life working for the capitalist machine inevitably succumb to.

Example sentences

The Black Fort is thrice seen in the narrative: at first it is the unattainable dream of Balram’s, and later we see it as the surmountable, the conquered.  Adiga’s metaphorical use of the Black Fort in this way underscores the changes the protagonist undergoes as the narrative tracks from initial conflict to its resolution.

1. use of appropriate metalanguage,

2. social, historical and/or cultural values

3. ways in which the text is open to different interpretations

social, historical and/or cultural values Include in your discussion some references to:• The caste system• Poverty• 1947• The rooster coop• The grandmother/father/family• religion•

social, historical and/or cultural values To flag that you are including discussion which takes into account ‘values’, use the following sorts of words:Endorses, challenges, exposes, condemns, questions, leaves unanswered, approves

social, historical and/or cultural values

Synonyms for ‘presents’

Shows Illustrates

Demonstrates

Suggests Conveys

Implies Indicates

Signposts Signals Signifies

Synonyms for ‘presents positively’

Supports Endorses

Recommends

Advocates

Promotes

Synonyms for ‘presents negatively’

Challenges

Criticises

Exposes Critiques Questions

social, historical and/or cultural values Examples:Adiga condemns the caste system as a cruel andunjust tradition with no place in modern India.

In characterising the protagonist in this way, Adiga challenges the reader ‘s usual understanding of the limitations of humankind…

http://www.vcestudyguides.com/text-response-fulfilling-the-vcaa-marking-criteria-views-and-values

1. use of appropriate metalanguage,

2. social, historical and/or cultural values

3. ways in which the text is open to different interpretations

…ways in which the text is open to different interpretations.

Signpost this to the assessor by

1. However, this might also be seen as….(something different)

Or put another way:

2. First reading, second reading…

At first, the reader may feel sympathy for the untenable situation Balram finds himself in, but as the narrative unfolds the reader is alerted to the distinctly callous nature of Balram and his sunsequent unforgivable act of violence.

1. use of appropriate metalanguage,

2. social, historical and/or cultural values

3. ways in which the text is open to different interpretations

Ta da!