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Peer Reviews
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Quality of writing
The Quality of Written Communication is average, though quite possibly of slightly less quality than what should be expected at GCSE level. Comma splice and an incorrect use of full stops leave minor sentences - non-grammatical sentences that should really only feature in speech - open for criticism from the examiner. These can be corrected by checking the grammar with a proof-read.
Level of analysis
The Level of Analysis is average. Discussing in some detail the many methods with which Oceania separates itself from any resemblance of a functional society as we see it (the manipulation of the past; the constant broadcasting of propaganda; the lack of free-thinking; the paranoia), the candidate has shown an understanding of the novel as it stands. To gain higher marks, the candidate should appreciate what about the life of the inhabitants of Oceania is controlled and/or dystopian (the relegation of sexual intercourse to a function; children turning in their adults for committing Thoughtcrime; The Thought Police etc.). There is an excellent understanding of how Newspeak controls the inhabitants of Oceania, though sections from the novel should be quoted - this point directly references Syme's quote "It is a beautiful thing - the destruction of words" and there should be an explicit link made between the candidates response and the ways in which The Party destroy language so they can narrow down their people's ability to think thoughts of freedom and happiness. The candidate should also use a variety of Orwellian terminology to show evidence of a confidence and clear understanding of Orwell's manipulation of society. Words such as "Ingsoc", the political rules and ideologies of The Party, should be included and reference at all times as it is this concept by which Orwell makes the most effect against his audience about the principles of control over the people of Oceania.
Response to question
This essay concentrates on how George Orwell presents dystopia in the city of Airstrip One in his novel 'Nineteen Eighty-Four'. In order to succeed in answering this question, candidates must identify elements of Oceania in the novel that differ from what we consider normality and how they affect the characters within the novel .What is it about Oceania that is so wrong? So defying of basic human instincts like love, trust and independence? The candidate shows a focus on a few aspects of this, though these aspects are demonstrated poorly due to a low quality of written communication.