IB DP Language A Language and Literature – sample text analysis – how to write a cover letter

Before analyzing the text make sure to have a look at the following page for a better understanding of how to use the text to help you with your assessments: https://language-literature.com/sample-text-analysis-blog-posts/

Text: Amy Gallo. How to Write a Cover Letter. Harvard Business Review. https://hbr.org/2014/02/how-to-write-a-cover-letter

Some elements of this text to consider:

  • There are very different types of cover letters and reader of the Harvard Business Review are more likely to be writing cover letters for more professional jobs. The instructions reflect this as checking “employee profiles on LinkedIn” is something might be useful for a sales or management position but isn’t necessary for people applying for retail or manual labour jobs.
  • Expert opinion is incorporated into the text such as ideas from “a communications expert and author” and a “UK-based career strategist and author.”
  • The text uses some challenging language such as “discern,” “peruse,” and “platitudes” which does reveal something about the audience. The paragraphs are also relatively lengthy.
  • Some parts of the text are bolded to highlight key sections and divisions
  • Key points are summarized in bullet points near the end of the article.
  • The two case studies offer real-world examples of how writing an effective cover letter can land a person a job.

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