Literary techniques & impact on reader

Understand the use of metaphors and similes in creating vivid imagery in the text.
Recognise examples of foreshadowing that hint at future plot developments.
Be aware of the use of irony, both situational and dramatic, in the narratives.
Identify personification where human characteristics are attributed to non-human entities.
Note incidences of alliteration and assonance and their effect on the text’s rhythm.

Examine the use of direct and indirect characterisation, understanding how the author uses descriptions, dialogues, or actions to reveal a character’s personality.
Understand character archetypes such as the hero, mentor, or trickster, and their roles in the narrative.
Observe any character transformation or progression throughout the narrative.
Identify any contrasts or conflicts within or between characters and what this indicates about character motivations.

Recognise recurring themes such as love, war, or honour, and consider what they say about the narrative as a whole.
Identify recurrent motifs such as objects, symbols or phrases that help to reinforce the themes.
Analyse how these themes and motifs contribute to the deeper meaning of the narrative.

Familiarise yourself with the story arc, understanding the exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution in the narratives.
Recognise the use of flashbacks or flash-forwards and consider their impact on how the narrative unfolds.
Understand the significance of plot twists and surprising developments in the narrative.

Analyse how the author’s use of language and style can influence the reader’s feelings towards characters or events.
Consider how the narrative’s tone and mood can affect the reader’s emotional response.
Reflect on how the narrative’s themes and characterisation might make the reader think about wider societal or moral issues.
Evaluate how different literary techniques combined together can engage and retain the reader’s interest, enhancing the overall reading experience.