Comparing writers’ ideas and perspectives

    AQA
    GCSE

    Candidates must synthesize evidence from two distinct texts to identify convergent and divergent perspectives. The assessment requires a granular analysis of how writers utilize rhetorical devices, tone, and structural choices to convey their viewpoints. Responses must move beyond simple content comparison to evaluate the nuances of writer's intent and the manipulation of the reader. Success depends on the integration of precise textual references with perceptive commentary on the methods used to shape perspective.

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    Objectives
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    Exam Tips
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    Pitfalls
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    Key Terms
    4
    Mark Points

    What You Need to Demonstrate

    Key skills and knowledge for this topic

    • Identify and compare the precise perspectives (feelings/attitudes) of both writers, not just the content or events
    • Analyze the methods (language, structure, tone) used to convey these perspectives, explicitly linking method to meaning
    • Employ comparative connectives to weave an integrated response rather than treating texts in isolation
    • Select judicious, relevant quotations from both Source A and Source B to support the comparison

    Marking Points

    Key points examiners look for in your answers

    • Identify and compare the precise perspectives (feelings/attitudes) of both writers, not just the content or events
    • Analyze the methods (language, structure, tone) used to convey these perspectives, explicitly linking method to meaning
    • Employ comparative connectives to weave an integrated response rather than treating texts in isolation
    • Select judicious, relevant quotations from both Source A and Source B to support the comparison

    Examiner Tips

    Expert advice for maximising your marks

    • 💡Start with a 'Both/However' statement to immediately establish a comparative thesis regarding the writers' views
    • 💡Use the structure: Idea A + Method + Quote → Comparative Connective → Idea B + Method + Quote
    • 💡Focus on the 'how': explicitly name the technique (e.g., 'sardonic tone', 'hyperbole') used to show the perspective
    • 💡Allocate exactly 20 minutes to this question as it carries 16 marks (approx. 1 mark per 1.25 mins)

    Common Mistakes

    Pitfalls to avoid in your exam answers

    • Comparing the subject matter (what happens) rather than the writers' viewpoints (how they feel about it)
    • Adopting a 'block' approach (analyzing all of Text A then all of Text B) which limits synthesis marks
    • Omitting analysis of methods, treating the question as a simple comprehension or summary task
    • Using generic comparative phrases ('Text A is positive whereas Text B is negative') without exploring nuance

    Key Terminology

    Essential terms to know

    Likely Command Words

    How questions on this topic are typically asked

    Compare how the writers convey...
    Refer to Source A and Source B
    To what extent do you agree...
    How does the writer use language...
    Write a...

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