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Comparing

 

In Paper 2 you have two texts, so in questions 2 and 4 you have to compare the information in both texts.

  • When you compare the texts, you pick out things that are the same OR different. 

  • In P2Q2, the question will tell you if you are looking for similarities OR differences about a topic.

  • In P2Q4, you can look for BOTH similarities AND differences in the writers' viewpoints.

Comparing words​

The best way to show the examiner that you're comparing the texts is by explicitly using comparing words.

Similarities

also

as well as

both

in the same way

similarly

too

Differences

but 

whereas

however

in contrast 

on the other hand

'Like with like'

The examiner will award you more marks if you can compare 'like with like'. This means comparing things that are on a similar topic.

Q2

The boat in source A is 'brand spanking new' but the boat in source B is 'ugly'.
This compares two things that are on different topics (age and appearance). It doesn't compare 'like with like'.

The boat in source A is 'brand spanking new' but the boat in source B is 'ancient'.

This compares two things on the same topic (age). It compares 'like with like'.

Q4

The writer in source A views the sea as intimidating and dangerous whereas the writer in source B views the boat as being like a sick old person.

This compares two things that are on different topics (the sea and the boat). It doesn't compare 'like with like'.

The writer in source A is proud of their boat and trusts it whereas the writer in source B views the boat as being like a sick old person.

This compares two things on the same topic (the boats). It compares 'like with like'.

For more help with Comparing, use the link below:

Comparing Texts | English Language GCSE | BBC Teach - YouTube

Comparing texts - GCSE English Language Revision - BBC Bitesize

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