Language frameworks

To analyse any text or transcript, linguists look at language through a set of frameworks, or levels.

The frameworks

Lexis: vocabulary and word choice (formal, slang, jargon)
Semantics: meaning, including connotation and figurative language
Grammar: word classes, sentence types and structure
Phonology: sounds (rhyme, alliteration, accent, intonation)
Pragmatics: implied meaning in context
Discourse: how a whole text is organised

Context and identity

Unit 1 links language to identity: how age, gender, region, ethnicity and occupation shape the way people speak and write, and how speakers present themselves.

Writing about it

Name the feature with the correct term, quote it, then explain its effect in context. A feature without an effect gains little credit.

Worked example

'Y'alright, mate?' Identify one framework and feature.

'mate' is informal vocabulary.
It signals friendliness and solidarity.

Answer: Lexis: the informal term of address 'mate' creates closeness.

Key idea: Lexis, semantics, grammar, phonology, pragmatics, discourse. Term, example, effect in context.

Check yourself

Which framework covers vocabulary choice?
- Lexis
- Phonology
- Discourse
- Grammar
Show answer
Lexis. Lexis is the vocabulary of a language.
Accent and intonation belong to which framework?
- Semantics
- Lexis
- Phonology
- Pragmatics
Show answer
Phonology. Phonology is the study of sounds.
'Is that the time?' meaning 'I want to leave' is an example of
- pragmatics
- lexis
- phonology
- graphology
Show answer
pragmatics. Pragmatics studies implied meaning.
How a whole text is structured is studied under
- phonology
- semantics
- lexis
- discourse
Show answer
discourse. Discourse looks at whole-text organisation.
A strong analytical point should include
- a list of features only
- the term, an example and its effect in context
- your opinion of the speaker
- a summary of the text
Show answer
the term, an example and its effect in context. Name, quote, explain the effect.

Practise with instant feedback

Sources

Pearson Information Manual 2026/2027: International A level

Last updated 7 November 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email alevel@lifereadysociety.com.