Analytical Essay Template

  • Items in bold are to be substituted for examples from the texts
  • Items that are not bold are a suggestion only, and it is expected that you would eventually write your own piece that reflects, but does not copy the example below.

P 1) INTRODUCTION – Identify and introduce the issue, reasons why the issue is prominent and a series of texts that address the issue.

The issue of (issue) has emerged in the media as a result of (policy change/events/crisis/concerns raised by sections of the community). (Stakeholders) have expressed the view that (one side of the issue) while (other stakeholders) have countered this byarguing (other side of the issue). (Authors’ names) have covered this issue in the print media from a variety of perspectives.(Article title/ publication) written by (Author’s name) has put forward the contention that (contention), whereas (Article title/ publication) written by (Author’s name) suggests that (contention). A third text, (Article title/ publication/ author) makes comments on (issue) and attempts to persuade the reader that (contention).

P 2, 3, 4, 5) BODY – Identify contention and basic arguments put forward by the author, what persuasive techniques he/ she has employed, examples/ evidence from the text and the intended effect on the reader.

In (title of first piece to be analysed) (writer’s name) (Paper, date) contends that (contention and summary of main arguments). In an endeavour to convince the reader of the validity of this view,(he/she)(adverb- such as effectively, subtly, explicitly) uses (main type of persuasive technique used) to (explain how it is intended to affect the reader – what, how and why). A clear example of how the author entices (or alternative verb) the reader to (feel, see, say, do), is (example from text). Not only does this encourage (reaction of reader), but it also suggests that (further exploration of author’s contention and intended effect on the reader). (Author’s name) succeeds for the most part in being persuasive as the reader is treated to a barrage of statistics that are supported, in part, by the(type of persuasive language used), making the link between (author’s opinion) and (evidence). (Author’s name) leaves little doubt of his/ her contention as the (describe tone) (describe/ explain effect on reader and how persuasive articles becomes with this tone).

Make sure you comment on more than one aspect of the article – select at least THREE of the main technques.

Begin the next paragraph by introducing the second article and commenting on the degree of similarity of view or difference. For example:

  • Expressing a similar view,(writer’s name) in (article details) … OR
  • An opposing view was expressed by (writer’s name) in (article details) …

Then continue with something along the lines of what has been done above for the first paragraph. You will need to ensure that you have commented on each of the articles/visuals.

You should include a fourth and fifth paragraph that discusses the common elements of the texts. Or outline how the arguments are very different, with different intentions on how they want the reader positioned.

P 6) CONCLUSION – A statement discussing the effectiveness of the techniques used, and summarising the reader’s response. Put the issue into context.

The diversity of opinions in the community on (issue), is reflected in the articles written by (list authors). Whilst those expressed by (Names) may appeal to (section of the community), the arguments in (name’s) piece may have more appeal to (section of the community). Perhaps also focus on the end of each of the texts and the purpose for which they have been written.