Building on your knowledge

The skills needed for Question 2 on Paper 2 of the AQA GCSE English Language exam build on your ability to read, understand, and analyse non-fiction texts. This question focuses on summarising differences or similarities between two sources, requiring you to synthesise information and make inferences. These notes will help you apply these skills strategically to achieve the best possible marks by focusing on how to approach the texts, select evidence, and structure your response.

Understanding Question 2 of Paper 2

Quick reference overview

What Question 2 looks like

This question requires you to compare two non-fiction texts (Source A and Source B) by summarising the differences or similarities in a specific aspect, such as the writers' experiences, attitudes, or perspectives. You must refer to both texts and focus on inferred meanings, not just explicit information. Below is an example of the updated question format for 2026 onwards.

You need to refer to Source A and Source B for this question.

Use details from both sources. Write a summary of the differences between the writers' attitudes towards urban living.

In your answer, you could consider:

• the differences in the writer's attitude in Source A
• the differences in the writer's attitude in Source B

[8 marks]

How to read for comparison

To answer Question 2 effectively, you need to read both texts with a clear strategy to identify relevant points for comparison. This means focusing on the specific aspect mentioned in the question (e.g., attitudes, experiences, or feelings) and looking for differences or similarities.

Steps for strategic reading

Step 1: Skim both texts for the main idea (1–2 minutes)

• Read the title, subheadings, or opening sentences of Source A and Source B to understand the overall topic or viewpoint.
• Note the specific focus of the question (e.g., "attitudes towards urban living") to guide your reading.

Step 2: Read Source A with the focus in mind (2 minutes)

• Look for explicit statements and implicit ideas related to the question focus.
• Underline or highlight key points about the writer's perspective or experience.
• Jot down brief notes on tone or attitude (e.g., positive, critical, nostalgic).

Step 3: Read Source B with comparison in mind (2 minutes)

• Repeat the process for Source B, but actively think about how it compares to Source A.
• Note down points of similarity or difference as you read.
• Pay attention to tone, language, and implied meanings.

Step 4: Identify 2–3 key points of comparison (1 minute)

• Choose points that are significant and clearly relate to the question focus.
• Ensure you have evidence from both texts for each point.

Making inferences from both sources

Question 2 tests your ability to go beyond what is directly stated by interpreting implied meanings. Inferring means reading between the lines to understand the writer's attitudes, feelings, or perspectives.

What is inference?

How to make inferences

• Look for tone – Does the language sound positive, negative, or neutral?
• Consider word choice – Are there emotive or loaded words that suggest a particular feeling?
• Think about context – What does the writer's situation or background suggest about their viewpoint?
• Ask yourself: What is the writer really saying or feeling beneath the surface?

Example of inference

• Source A: "The city never sleeps; it's a constant buzz of opportunity." – Inference: The writer feels excited and positive about urban life.
• Source B: "The city is a maze of concrete, suffocating and cold." – Inference: The writer feels trapped and negative about urban life.

Selecting and synthesising information

Synthesis means combining information from both texts to create a cohesive summary. You need to select relevant points that address the question focus and show how they connect.

Tips for effective synthesis

• Be selective – Choose 2–3 strong points of comparison (differences or similarities) rather than trying to cover everything.
• Balance both texts – Ensure each point includes specific details or evidence from both Source A and Source B.
• Focus on inference – Don't just repeat what the texts say; explain what their attitudes or experiences suggest.
• Link ideas – Show how the points from each text relate to each other (e.g., one writer is optimistic while the other is critical).

Example of synthesised evidence

Using comparison connectives effectively

To make your summary clear and cohesive, use connectives to link ideas between the two texts. These words help show whether you're discussing similarities or differences.

Useful comparison connectives

Examples in context

• Similarity: "Both writers describe their experiences of travel positively. Source A highlights the thrill of adventure, and similarly, Source B focuses on the joy of discovery."
• Difference: "Source A portrays urban living as exciting, whereas Source B describes it as overwhelming and stressful."

How to structure your response

A clear structure ensures your summary is logical and easy for the examiner to follow. Aim for a concise response that covers 2–3 points of comparison.

Suggested structure

Introduction (1–2 sentences)

• Briefly state the overall similarity or difference in relation to the question focus.
• Example: "The writers of Source A and Source B have contrasting attitudes towards urban living, with Source A viewing it positively while Source B expresses clear dissatisfaction."

Main body (2–3 paragraphs)

• Each paragraph should cover one point of comparison.
• Start with a clear statement of the difference or similarity.
• Include specific evidence or inferred ideas from both texts.
• Use connectives to link the texts.
• Example: "Firstly, Source A conveys a sense of excitement about urban life, describing the city as 'a hub of creativity'. In contrast, Source B feels trapped by the environment, calling it 'a prison of concrete'. This highlights their opposing views on the opportunities the city offers."

No conclusion needed

• You don't need a separate conclusion; focus on making your points clear and concise within the body paragraphs.

How much to write

• Aim for a short, focused response – around half a side of A4.
• Quality matters more than quantity; ensure each point is developed with evidence and inference.

Quick reference guide: Synthesis language and phrases

Use these phrases to help you summarise and synthesise information effectively.

Phrases for summarising ideas

• "Source A suggests that…"
• "Source B implies a sense of…"
• "The writer of Source A feels…"
• "In Source B, the writer conveys…"

Phrases for showing comparison

• "This is different from Source B, where…"
• "This contrasts with Source A, which…"
• "Similarly, Source B also shows…"
• "Unlike Source A, Source B…"

Phrases for inference

• "This implies that…"
• "This suggests a feeling of…"
• "The tone here indicates…"
• "Beneath the surface, the writer seems to…"

Common mistakes and how to avoid them