Critical analysis of texts
Critically analyse complex texts: argument structure, rhetorical strategy, ideology and context — producing sophisticated written analysis.
In this lesson you will
- Analyse argument and rhetorical strategy together
- Identify underlying values and ideology
- Write sophisticated analytical commentary
Learn
C2 analysis combines what a text argues, how it persuades, and why — its purpose, audience and underlying values.
Questions to ask: Who is the implied reader? What is taken for granted? Whose voices are included or excluded? What alternative framings were possible?
Ideology: texts carry assumptions about what is normal or desirable (growth is good, individuals are responsible, experts are trustworthy). Naming these assumptions is a key analytical move.
Analytical language: The writer positions readers as… ; The text naturalises the assumption that… ; By foregrounding X and backgrounding Y, … ; The rhetorical effect is to…
Examples
- By foregrounding personal responsibility, the article backgrounds structural causes of poverty.
- The text positions readers as consumers rather than citizens.
- The repeated use of ‘we’ constructs a shared identity between writer and reader.
Vocabulary
ideology
a system of beliefs and values
foreground
give prominence to
naturalise
make something seem normal and unquestionable
implied reader
the audience the text assumes
position (v)
cast readers in a particular role
In real life
Read the advertisement-style article extract.
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Practice
Who is the implied reader?
Speaking
Present a 90-second critical analysis of the extract: implied reader, strategy, assumptions and what is left out.
Writing
Write a critical analysis (250–300 words) of the extract, discussing argument, rhetorical strategy and underlying ideology.
Lesson quiz
To “naturalise” an idea is to…
Review
Key points
- What, how, why.
- Implied reader, assumptions, omissions.
- Ideology.
- Analytical language: foreground, naturalise, position.
What you learned
- ✓ I analyse texts critically.
- ✓ I identify ideology.
- ✓ I write sophisticated commentary.