The gist: Evaluation is analysis with a judgement: not just what the effect is, but how effectively it works, why, and how far — using words like ‘powerfully’, ‘effectively’, ‘arguably’, ‘particularly’.
Analysis says what happens; evaluation says how well — and that gap is the top band.
⚖️ ‘The metaphor creates fear’ is analysis. ‘The metaphor is a particularly effective choice here, because it turns an abstract fear into something the reader can almost see’ is evaluation. You're not just spotting the effect — you're judging how well it works and why.
The move up
Add a judgement
‘effectively’, ‘powerfully’, ‘strikingly’, ‘particularly’ — rate how well it works.
Say WHY it works well
The best evaluation explains the reason the choice succeeds.
Weigh ‘how far’
‘arguably’, ‘to some extent’, ‘especially for this reader’ — show nuance.
Compare choices
Note when one choice is MORE effective than another, and why.
The key move: After technique → effect, add a judgement + reason: ‘this is a particularly effective choice because…’. Evaluation, not just description, is what reaches the top band.
Free preview
This is the free notes preview
You're reading the free notes. Aimnova Pro unlocks the full study experience — and you can try it free for 7 days:
- FlashcardsLock in vocabulary and key terms with spaced repetition.
- Practice questionsAnswer exam-style questions and get instant AI marking.
- Mock exams & past-paper vaultSit full mocks and see exactly how examiners award marks.
- Personalised study planA daily plan built around your exam date and weak areas.
Why it matters in the exam: Criterion B is literally ‘analysis AND evaluation’. The top band asks for ‘insightful’ and ‘evaluative’ comment — you must judge HOW WELL choices work and why, not just list what they do.
Evaluate this choice: “Grief is the tax you pay on love — and no one warns you it is due all at once.”
Model answer plan
See the mark-by-mark plan — for / against / judgement, with marking guidance — in study mode.
Watch out: Don't just say a choice is ‘effective’ and stop — that's an empty judgement. Always add WHY it works and, where you can, how far.