English Language essay - agreement between the college and students

Language analysis

The purpose of this text was to inform possible future students as to the expectations the college has of its pupils. This piece of text is also reassuring the opportunities that the college can offer. The target audience that the purpose is directed at is potential students that wish to join the college. The writer of this piece of text (the director of sixth form) outlines the rights and wrongs for students when deciding about college.

This extract includes a variety of language choices. The text begins with a large use of nouns - including pronouns and proper nouns. ‘’The college’’ is a proper noun which is used to inform the students of what the letter is about. The use of the pronouns ‘’us’’ and ‘’we’’ provides us with an inclusive tone and is directly addressing the target audience. In addition to this, the extract also makes use of the word ‘’you’’  - this creates a personal overtone and gives the impression that the letter is directly written for you. This may have an impact on the choice of potential students as they will already feel part of the college. A modal verb is also used  in this text - the word ‘’will’’ creates a sense of certainty and encouragement. This word ‘’will’’ gives the impression that something is definitely going to happen, this shows there is hope.

In addition to this, the extract makes use of the graphological features. The title is written is a bold font to place an emphasis on the importance and to focus all attention of what the text is about. Further down, the letter is signed off by the ‘director of sixth form’. The use of this significant title is important as it is highlighting his authority and reality of the letter. This shows the letter is official and provides us with a sense of formality which is representative of part of the aspects the college has to offer. Additionally, another graphological feature is the underlining of ‘’PLEASE READ THIS CAREFULLY’’ - the use of capitals and underlining highlights the importance of the information that is about to be read. The word ‘’please’’ is a politeness marker which almost softens what they are saying - this contrasts with the capital letters which make is seem serious.

The extract is laid out in bullet points which takes the format of a sequenced list. This is the discourse structure of the text. This is important because it shows a clear and precise order and it could be argued that it is easier to read. The bullet points start by explaining the positive aspects of the college and then continue onto saying the expectations. ‘’i, the student, agree to the following’’ - this also gives the idea of a personal tone as it appears the student is already obedient and following the rules.

In conclusion, this extract provides readers with an insight into the expectations and opportunities the college offers. It is very formal and informative and is used to persuade students by listing what they have to offer.