Example guiding questions

1. How do visual elements and text contribute to this exploration of the film industry?

2. How does the writer structure this article to present an argument?

3. How does this article persuade the reader to rethink their approach to food and eating?.

Notice

• The questions all begin with 'how'. Be careful though! This invites a very descriptive response. Try adding the word 'effectively' after 'how'. This will illicit a more critical response that explore the effects of language on the reader and the effectiveness of the writer, both of which are essential for analysing and evaluating the text (Criterion B)

• Each question has a 'stylistic feature' part and a 'purpose/theme/topic' part. Unpack each part in more specific terms in topic sentences that echo the guiding question. 

Tips for unpacking guiding questions

• Circle/underline the 'how' (style/form) part of the question and the 'what' and 'why' (purpose) parts of the question.

• Build a mind map around the guiding question. Branching out from the 'how' part with examples of 2-4 major stylistic features.

• Branch out from the from the 'why' part of the question with key points about the meanings, messages and purposes of the text.

• What is the most specific word in the guiding question? What is the most general word? Most likely, either the form or the purpose part of the question will be specific. Write a thesis statement that includes this word.

• Include words from the guiding question in your thesis statement (because it should answer the question)

• Include words and phrases from the guiding question throughout your response, especially in the final sentences of each paragraph.