IBDP English A Paper 1 “Melons” Strategy

You can use MELONS strategy for analyzing any text type. Learn what MELONS stand for and start writing your Essays professionally. A well written analysis will have 6 paragraphs.

1. Main

Introduction, Context, Audience, and Purpose)

• Contextual Overview: Briefly introduce the text you’re analyzing, mentioning its type (e.g., poem, article, speech) and any relevant background information.
• Guiding Question: Address the guiding question provided in the exam, as this will shape your analysis.
• Thesis Statement: Present a clear thesis that outlines your main argument or interpretation of the text.
• Key Features: Highlight the key aspects of the text you’ll analyze, such as tone, structure, literary devices, or themes.
• Purpose and Audience: Mention the author’s purpose and intended audience, as this will influence your analysis.
• Purpose: Why was the text created? (To inform, persuade, entertain, criticize, etc.)
• Audience: Who is the intended reader/viewer? (General public, experts, young people, etc.)
• Context: What background knowledge is relevant? (Time period, cultural influences, etc.)
• Tone & Mood: What is the overall feeling of the text? (Serious, humorous, emotional, neutral, etc.)

2. Elements (Visual)

• Typography & Layout: Fonts, sizes, colors, positioning, white space.
• Images & Graphics: Use of pictures, symbols, charts, illustrations.
• Balance of Text & Visuals: Does the text rely more on words or images?

3. Language Elements

Rhetorical & Format-Based Analysis

• Diction (Word Choice): Formal, informal, slang, jargon, loaded words
• Figurative Language: Metaphors, similes, personification, symbolism
• Tone & Register: Conversational, academic, authoritative, sarcastic
• Syntax (Sentence Structure): Short vs. long sentences, parallelism, punctuation
• Persuasive Devices: Rhetorical questions, hyperbole, irony, repetition, direct address
• Narrative Voice & Perspective: First-person, second-person, third-person, biased/unbiased

4. Organization and Flow

Use this paragraph for analyzing the Organization and Flow of the text type you are analyzing. Discuss the level of coherence, logical progression and transitions.

• Organization: How is the text structured? (Headings, paragraphs, sections, columns, sequencing)
• Paragraphing & Logical Order: How do ideas develop across the text?
• Transitions: Are linking words used effectively? (e.g., however, therefore, in contrast)
• Repetition & Patterns: Are key words/ideas reinforced throughout the text?

5. Nuances & Negatives

It is now time to show your expertise by exposing the subtilties and limitations. Show what few people see. Criticize the pitfalls, bias, incorrect and correct assumptions, and omissions.

• Bias & Subjectivity: Does the author have a clear opinion?
• Stereotypes & Assumptions: Are there hidden messages or prejudices?
• Omissions & Silences: What perspectives are missing or ignored?
• Limitations: Are arguments weak or lacking evidence?

6. Sum Up

Conclusion, Impact of the Text.

• Overall Effectiveness: Did the text achieve its goal?
• Emotional or Logical Impact: Does it connect with the audience emotionally or rationally?
• Personal Interpretation: How does the text leave an impression on the reader?