Question

What does "analyse" refer to in English HSC?

A) Breaking down a text or topic into its constituent parts and examining them closely.
B) Critically evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of a literary work or argument.
C) Identifying and explaining the underlying themes, motifs, or symbols in a piece of literature.
D) Interpreting and drawing conclusions based on evidence and examples from a text.
E) All of the above.

Answer 1

In the English HSC, 'analyze' involves breaking down a text and examining its elements to understand how the author's choices create meaning, leading to the interpretation and evaluation of the text.

Step-by-step explanation:

The term “analyze” in the English HSC refers to the process of breaking down a text into its constituent parts and closely examining various aspects such as themes, word choices, motifs, symbols, and more. It involves looking at how these parts work together and how the author's choices contribute to the overall meaning or effect of the text. Central to this is literary analysis, which implies a deep examination of a work's language, form, subject matter, and historical or cultural context. Analysis leads to interpretation and can also involve evaluating the text's merits.

To write more analytically, one must start by actively reading and taking notes that cover themes, ideas, and reactions to the text. Critical questions of “how” and “why” should be asked to probe beneath the surface. Analytical writing goes beyond summarizing content to discussing the text's construction and implications. This can involve considering the trustworthiness of sources, the text's relationship with visuals, underlying assumptions, and any biases present. By analyzing these different elements, students can form a comprehensive understanding of the text and construct well-supported arguments about its meaning.