magneto:
Ah yes, I know that article. Yes, expert opinion (or self-aggrandisement in that author's case :p) can be worth analysing. It's not a very 'meaty' device though; you couldn't talk about it for more than a few lines, so perhaps try and combine it with some other techniques (eg. glorification of handwriting as an art form)
Zeitgeist:
Depends on the article, and what you're analysing. If you've picked up on one instance of inclusive language, then explaining the effect will take less than a sentence. However, if you're commenting on a broader, more general appeal then you may need one or two whole sentences just teasing out this idea and linking it to the contention.
Go with the flow when analysing, but for most body paragraphs, try to quote, or otherwise closely analyse, at least every 3 lines. Any less than that and you're probably getting to far away from the issue.
Re: general tips: see
everything I've written in this thread. Or just everything on the forums. If you want more specific advice, then as a more specific question
edit: actually I do have more specific advice: don't aim high, aim smart. Thinking 'I really want a 40+' isn't helping you study. It might motivate you, but it won't help you actually
learn. Instead think: 'I really want to write awesome T.R. conclusions' or 'I really want to get the hang of connotative analysis.' That way you have a tangible goal that is purely within your control.
LFC_Kero:
What is it about the prompt that's tripping you up? If it's the word 'intangible' then look it up, come up with some synonyms, and try to reword it so there's an implication or two you can explore.
Could the reason you're getting stumped be that your 5 persuasive pieces don't apply here?
Don't worry, it's better that this happens now and not in the exam.
If you understand the prompt, but just don't have the ideas to deal with it, then you need to expand your example-bank. The Conflict Example Guide in my sig should help get you started, otherwise go back to the ones you're using and try to unpack them more, or link them into other ideas.
Check the first post in this thread; there are some previous examples regarding questioning/unpacking the prompt. It feels kinda pointless for me to just suggest random ideas at this stage of the year when it should be about you refining your approach.