Paper 2: Reading - Answering Question 4
English Language: AQA GCSE, topic 5.2.6
Section A: Reading - Question 4
In Section A of Paper 2, you will analyse the language of one non-fiction text and compare the viewpoints of the writers of two non-fiction texts.
Question 4
- Question 4 is worth 16 marks.
- In this question, you will be asked to re-read Source A and Source B. You will be asked to compare the ways in which the different writers communicate their ideas/attitudes about a place/person/event.
Question 2 vs Question 4
- Question 2 and Question 4 are very similar:
- In Question 2, you are comparing what the different viewpoints/ideas are.
- In Question 4, you are comparing HOW the writers get their ideas across (i.e. analysing the language techniques they use).
- Question 2 and Question 4 will be marked by different examiners – you can use the same ideas for both questions! Just remember that Question 4 is more about analysing the methods/techniques used.
Exam technique
- Consider what the question is asking you to focus on.
- Throughout your answer, stick to the question.
- Draw yourself a rough table to plan your ideas out.
- Select one of your quotations and write a paragraph to answer the question. Use the PETER – C – PETER structure, or your own method of structuring your answer.
Reaching the top marks
- To reach the top marks, you need to:
- Demonstrate a clear understanding of either the similarities or differences.
- Interpret both sources perceptively.
- Evaluate techniques used to get ideas across.
- Use a variety of quotations from each source.
Test yourself on Paper 2: Reading - Answering Question 4
Which of your previous answers might you use for answering Question 4 of Section A?
What do you need to do when answering Question 4?
What structure guide could you use for answering Question 4 of the reading section (Section A)?
What are you comparing in Question 4 of Section A?