English Resources
Diction:
type What it is + example
Slang Informal word used –
brb,wack
Jargon
Formal Used in scholar articles and
newspaper
Informal
pedanic when a writer is highly
detailed or academic in
their writing. Words are
chosen specifically to
convey only one meaning.
Colloquial Colloquial words or
expressions are informal in
nature and generally
represent a certain region
or time. “Ain’t” and “y’all”
are examples of colloquial
expressions, born in rural
areas of the United States. 
abstract This is when a writer uses
words to express something
intangible, like an idea or
an emotion. Abstract
phrases often lack physical
detail and specificity
because they are things the
reader cannot experience
through their five senses.
For example speaking on
freedom
Concrete diction Not open to interpretation
literal meanings and appeal
to senses ex: I ate an apple
Political diction A type of diction used by
politicians in order to
persuade them to like or
support their party or to go
Writer’s purpose
To indicate seriousness or
make them seem more
believable because they
sound more serious
Used to entertain the reader,
and to make them feel more
comfortable with the
author, used to persuade the
reader to like the author
Used to show off
knowledge to audience
used when a writer is trying
to achieve informality.
Colloquial diction and
slang are typically used to
capture the language of a
particular time frame or
culture
Used to persuade the reader
to empathise or believe the
writer
To be direct and clear with
audience
Persuade the reader they are
right and the best
Effect on audience
most likely to inform
to the audience and
will sound more
believable
Have a more relaxed
effect on reader,
make the audience
feel a little
overwhelmed or
threaten by the high
level language or it
can make the reader
trust the author due to
their high knowledge.
Everyday spoken
language gives your
writing a casual,
relaxed effect.
Makes reader feel
emotional or have
sympathy if it’s a sad
topic
knows the author is
serious
Believe the politicial
 against the other party

Phrases to present diction:

“The writer creates a ______________ diction through the use of…” OR “The language of the text is
___________________.”

Syntax:

Syntax Analysis = the analysis of sentence construction.

Essential Idea = Syntax must be examined as to how it contributes to and enhances meaning and effect. Analyze
syntax by considering the following: 

type explanation Effect on reader

Sentence length Short = straight forward
Long = descriptive, detailed
A series of short sentences
repetitively can cause tension to
build up and increase the pace
A series of long sentences can slow
down the pace

Periodic sentence Builds up tension until end of text,

ex “I couldn’t wait any longer, so I
went to bed”
Paragraph length Shorter paragraph puts more
emphasis to the things being said
 Declarative = makes a
statement.       
 EX:  The king is sick.
Imperative  = gives a command.
 EX:  Bow to the king.
Interrogative = asks a question. EX:
What’s the matter with the king?
Exclamatory = makes an
exclamation. The king is dead!
 Types of Non-Literary Texts:

Aspect Define and example Effect on audience

Weasel words Intentionally misleading vague or ambiguous (open to more than one interpretation)
Ex: milk can improve your strength