How to Compare Texts in GCSE English Language (AQA GCSE English Language): Revision Note
The skill of comparison is tested in the non-fiction paper of your GCSE English Language exam. You are being asked to compare the writers’ viewpoints and perspectives, and how they present these viewpoints and perspectives, on a given topic. You will be comparing the viewpoints and perspectives of an older text (written in the 19th or early part of the 20th century) with those expressed in a modern text, so you should consider the differences in style and format between the two.
How to compare two texts at GCSE
Following the steps below will help you produce an effective comparison:
Read the question carefully:
Ensure you highlight specifically what you have been asked to compare, so that you don’t just write an overall comparison of the two texts
Track through each text methodically, highlighting at least five key points of comparison in each:
You can either use direct quotations or references to the text to support your points
As you track and highlight, annotate in the margins what the writers’ feelings seem to be about the focus of the question:
Also note down how they have presented their feelings and perspectives
Consider if the writing is personal and emotive, or more detached and report-like, or if the writer has used certain rhetorical techniques to make you respond in a certain way
Start your answer with an overall thesis statement:
This should capture your main interpretation of both texts
Make at least 4–5 integrated comparisons between the two texts, including analysis of the methods the writers have used:
Support each comparison with evidence from each text
Make sure you use comparative language, such as “similarly”, “in comparison” or “whereas”
Remember, by the time you get to this question, you should be familiar with both texts through answering the preceding questions. Therefore, a quick scan of each text should be enough to identify the main points of comparison.
How do you write a comparison paragraph?
Here is an example of a comparison paragraph which:
Starts with a thesis statement
Compares both texts in an integrated way, with embedded quotations and textual references
Includes comparison of the writers’ viewpoints and perspectives, and how they have conveyed these perspectives
The writers of each text convey different feelings about their experiences of travelling on a train. The writer of Text A gives the impression that the train journey is something to be endured rather than enjoyed, as shown in the repetition of “no more” as he lists the experiences he will no longer have to go through. He feels “very content” at the thought of the journey being “almost over”. Even though he acknowledges that he does not have anything “very specific to look forward” to at the end of the journey, he is happy with the thought that the journey was going to end, and “that, for the moment, was enough”. This is in complete contrast to the feelings described by the writer of Text B, who conveys her enjoyment of the train journey immediately through the use of language such as “love” and “raptures”. She has to use a “large sheet” of paper in order to capture her experience in a letter, and her use of “raptures” implies euphoria and an almost spiritual experience. The writer goes on to describe, in great detail, her first ride on a steam train, which she refers to as “she” and a “wonderful beast”, zoomorphising the train which she clearly feels some affection for. She feels “rather inclined to pat” what she describes as a “snorting little animal”, suggesting her utter delight at this novelty. |
Top exam tips for comparison questions
When considering how the writers have presented their information, think about the differences in style and format between the two texts, especially considering when they were written
In your response, the goal is to draw insights from the similarities and differences you have identified:
What do these similarities and differences reveal about the writers’ feelings, intentions and perspectives?
Do they shed any light on larger themes contained within the texts?
Always support your comparisons with textual evidence from each text
Do not neglect the “how”:
Your analysis of the methods the writers have used should form part of your integrated comparison
Above all, remember to use comparative language to structure your response:
Words to compare | similarly | likewise | equally |
|---|---|---|---|
both | comparably | in the same way | |
Words to contrast | on the other hand | although | however |
while | whereas | in contrast |
You've read 0 of your 5 free revision notes this week
Sign up now. It’s free!
Did this page help you?
