If you struggle with argument analysis, here’s the easiest way to improve your essay with the least amount of effort:
VERBS
Remember ‘to analyse’ is an action, which means the analysis happens in the verb(s) of sentence!
When students use simple, boring verbs like ‘argues’ or ‘states’, they are simply summarising the arguments rather than analysing them. We can help our students increase the depth of their analysis by expanding their range of verbs. These include:
- attacks
- prioritises
- praises
- condemns
- highlights
- undermines
- suggests
- implies
- belittles
- frames
- depicts
The simplest way that tutors and parents can help is to create a list of verbs with their teens or highschoolers.
Another way is to create tables of verbs with similar meanings to help students find the right verb to suit what the author is doing.
Once students have access to a bigger vocabulary to analyse the arguments, the rest of the essay task is so much easier!
Enjoyed this post?
Subscribe to our social media channels so you don’t miss out on any of our latest content!
And here are our vocabulary packs, filled with essential vocabulary for all levels of high school English!
If you’re looking for ways to help your teen in VCE English/EAL, make sure you join our newsletter! We release 2-3 newsletter each term, packed with advice and strategies to help you support your teen in their English studies.
English Tuition that cares 