GCSE
English Language
2.2.2 Question 2: 8 Marks
In this lesson, you’ll learn how to approach GCSE English Language Paper 2, Question 2. We’ll focus on summarising similarities or differences between Source A and Source B, selecting key evidence, making inferences, and linking the two texts clearly to secure up to 8 marks.
Paper 2: Question 2
Question 2 asks you to summarise information from both Source A and Source B, focusing on a specific aspect that the question will specify. Commonly, it will say something like: “Refer to both Source A and Source B. Write a summaryA concise account of the main points, focusing on key differences or similarities. of the differences (or similarities) between [a particular aspect] in the two sources.” This question tests your ability to synthesise information and infer meaning (AO1 and AO3).
You need to find relevant details in each text and show how they relate – either how they differ or how they are similar, depending on the question’s wording. The key skills are selecting relevant evidence from each text, making inferences (reading between the lines), and writing concisely. This question assesses the following:
- Selecting explicit details: Picking out the facts or descriptions from each source that relate to the question’s focus.
- Making inferences: Explaining what those details suggest or imply. Often the question’s focus (e.g. “the attitude of each writer toward X” or “the experience of Y”) requires you to go beyond surface facts to interpret feelings or attitudes.
- Combining information: You aren’t writing separate answers for A and B; you’re linking them. Make sure you use words like “both,” “whereas,” “in contrast,” and “similarly” to show the examiner you are directly comparing or synthesising the two sources.
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Create a free accountPaper 2: Question 2
- Worth 8 marks; assesses AO1 (selecting explicit details) and AO3 (comparing ideas/perspectives).
- Always refers to both Source A and Source B; question will specify whether to compare differences or similarities.
- Common wording: “Refer to both Source A and Source B. Write a summary of the differences/similarities between [aspect].”
Approaching Question 2
- Focus: The aspect in the question (e.g. experiences, attitudes, feelings, conditions). Stay on topic.
- Step 1: Identify the focus and underline it in the question.
- Step 2: Skim each source for relevant material on that focus.
- Step 3: Highlight or note explicit details from both sources that relate to it.
- Step 4: Make inferences — explain what the details suggest or imply.
- Step 5: Link the sources together using comparative connectives (e.g. whereas, similarly, in contrast, on the other hand).
- Responses should be concise, combining evidence from both sources in each point — avoid writing about them separately.
- Aim for 2–4 clear comparative points with evidence from both texts for each.
- Use your own words where possible; use short quotes only if necessary for clarity.
- Avoid:
- Language analysis (methods) — focus on what is said, not how it’s said.
- Personal opinions — stick to what the texts state or imply.
- Retelling each text without linking them.
- Over-quoting or copying from the source.
- Irrelevant details that do not address the stated aspect.
- Time management: spend about 10–12 minutes; 8–12 sentences in total is usually sufficient.
- Balance detail from both sources — don’t focus heavily on one and neglect the other.
- Use inference language like “this suggests…”, “this implies…”, “we can infer that…”.
- Show explicit and implicit understanding of the similarities/differences.