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 closing that gap is what makes analysis strong.
‘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 makes analysis strong.
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Why it matters in the exam: Criterion B is literally ‘analysis AND evaluation’. Aim 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.