How to Answer Question 2

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The Facts

AO Tested: AO1 (See previous page for more info)

Suggested Time: 10 minutes

What will you need to do?

Compare the methods and ideas of both writers

Top tips:

You can also compare techniques e.g. both extracts use personification to…
Be elaborative when explaining your points to ensure you pick up all marks.

What can you mention in your answer?

In this question, you can talk about the impacts of both language and structure

Structure	Example
Clear, comparative statement that answers the question	Both texts…
Source A method	The writer has used […] and an example of this is…
Source A perspective	Here, the writer is presenting X as Y because…
Source B compare perspective	Similarly…
Source B method	Source B utilises […] to convey…
Source B word analysis	The writer uses the phrase…
Source B perspective	This reflects their perspective because it highlights that…
Comparative summary	Ultimately, it is clear that the two authors' views are similar because…

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Here is an example question and answer:

Compare how the writers present their ideas and perspectives on nature in Source A and Source B.

Source A: An extract from "The Wilderness Within", where the writer describes the beauty and peace of nature as a place of refuge.

Source B: An extract from "Nature's Fury", where the writer details a harrowing encounter with a storm while hiking in the mountains.

Structure	Example
Clear, comparative statement that answers the question	Both texts present perspectives on nature, but while Source A views nature as peaceful and comforting, Source B portrays it as dangerous and unpredictable.
Source A method	The writer in Source A has used positive imagery to create a sense of tranquility. An example of this is the phrase "gentle rustling of leaves," which conveys the calming presence of the forest.
Source A perspective	Here, the writer presents nature as a refuge from the chaos of daily life, showing an appreciation for its serene qualities. This is evident in the phrase "the forest was a sanctuary, untouched by the noise of the city."
Source B compare perspective	Similarly, Source B also acknowledges nature's power, but from a fearful perspective, highlighting its ability to instill awe and trepidation.
Source B method	Source B utilises personification to convey the threatening presence of nature, as seen in the description of the storm "growling and roaring like a wild beast." This technique personifies the storm, creating an image of nature as a violent and overpowering force.
Source B word analysis	The writer uses the phrase "merciless downpour," which implies that the storm is relentless and harsh, emphasising the danger faced by those caught within it.
Source B perspective	This reflects the writer's perspective because it highlights nature's potential to be hostile and unpredictable, contrasting with the peaceful view presented in Source A.
Comparative summary	Ultimately, it is clear that the two authors' views differ: Source A sees nature as a calm escape, while Source B reveals a more daunting, powerful side of the natural world.

How to Answer Question 2 Simplified Revision Notes for GCSE OCR English Language

How to Answer Question 2

The Facts

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