Analysing sentence structure in Critical ReadingHow to analyse sentence structure

Critical Reading assessment

In the National 5 English Critical Reading assessment, you will be asked to comment on examples of language in an extract from a Scottish text you have previously studied (and elsewhere in the text).

Language is a term used to cover a broad range of literary techniques, including the following:

• word choice
• imagery
• sentence structure – which will be covered in this guide
• tone

In the National 5 English exam

You will be asked to:

• consider and identify features of sentence structure within a text
• analyse the author’s intentions
• analyse its effect upon the reader

What is sentence structure?

Sentence structure is the way a writer builds up or constructs a sentence

A writer will often carefully consider the shape, rhythm and general composition of their sentences, not just the content.

Varying sentence style and structure:

• keeps the reader interested
• adds emphasis
• reduces repetition

This guide will cover some features of sentence structure and punctuation that you may notice while reading.