How-To-Compare-Texts-In-Gcse-English-Language-aqa

The skill of comparison is tested in the non-fiction paper of your GCSE English Language exam. You are being asked to compare the writers’ viewpoints and perspectives, and how they present these viewpoints and perspectives, on a given topic. Y

ou will be comparing the viewpoints and perspectives of an older text (written in the 19th or early part of the 20th century) with those expressed in a modern text, so you should consider the differences in style and format between the two.

How to compare two texts at GCSE

Following the steps below will help you produce an effective comparison:

1. Read the question carefully:

   • Ensure you highlight specifically what you have been asked to compare:

     • This is the focus of the comparison

     • Don’t just write an overall comparison of the two texts

2. Track through each text methodically, highlighting at least five key points of comparison in each:

   • You can either use direct quotations or references to the text to support your points

3. As you track and highlight, annotate in the margins what the writers’ feelings seem to be about the focus of the question:

   • Also note down how they have presented their feelings and perspectives

   • Consider if the writing:

     • Is personal and emotive

     • Is detached and report-like

     • Uses certain rhetorical techniques to make you respond in a certain way

4. Start your answer with an overall thesis statement:

   • This should capture your main interpretation of both texts

5. Make at least 4–5 integrated comparisons between the two texts, including analysis of the methods the writers have used:

   • Support each comparison with evidence from each text

   • Make sure you use comparative language, such as “similarly”, “in comparison” or “whereas”

Remember, by the time you get to this question, you should be familiar with both texts through answering the preceding questions. Therefore, a quick scan of each text should be enough to identify the main points of comparison.

How do you write a comparison paragraph?

Here is an example of a comparison paragraph which:

• Starts with a thesis statement

• Compares both texts in an integrated way, with embedded quotations and textual references

• Includes comparison of the writers’ viewpoints and perspectives, and how they have conveyed these perspectives

Top exam tips for comparison questions

• When considering how the writers have presented their information, think about the differences in style and format between the two texts, especially considering when they were written

• In your response, the goal is to draw insights from the similarities and differences you have identified:

  • What do these similarities and differences reveal about the writers’ feelings, intentions and perspectives?

  • Do they shed any light on larger themes contained within the texts?

• Always support your comparisons with textual evidence from each text

• Do not neglect the “how”:

  • Your analysis of the methods the writers have used should form part of your integrated comparison

Above all, remember to use comparative language to structure your response: