Analyzing written words

Genre

In what kind of document do the words appear? A brochure? A letter? An essay?

Features

Is the text in a single font or a variety of fonts? How would you describe the font(s)? Are there different colors and sizes? Do you notice bold, italic, or highlighted words? Are any words animated—do they move or change in shape, color, or size?

Purpose and audience

What is the purpose of the text? Is it meant to teach, guide, warn, entertain, or provoke the reader?

Who is the intended audience for the written words? Readers who will take time to read them? Or readers who will need to grasp the message quickly? Are they consumers, children, workers, fans, protesters, commuters, or a mixed group?

Meaning

How do genre, features, purpose, and audience work together to convey a message? How do you interpret the use of the written words? (Keep in mind that your interpretation—your take on the meaning—may differ from the composer’s intended message.)