English Language Paper 2 Structure and Approach

The exam begins with reading and annotating source material (15 minutes) before tackling Section A's analytical questions. You'll face four questions of increasing complexity and mark value.

Question 1 (4 marks) asks you to select true statements about a source. Spend about 5 minutes carefully reading the question and identifying the four correct statements. Question 2 (8 marks) requires a summary comparing details from both sources, where you should make inferences using "because" to explain your thinking.

For Question 3 (12 marks), you'll analyse language techniques in one source. Structure your answer by stating "The writer uses [technique] to describe..." followed by a quotation, analysis of connotations, and reader impact. Question 4 (16 marks) is the most challenging, asking you to compare attitudes and methods across both sources. Spend 20 minutes writing four paragraphs that alternate between sources.

💡 Remember to focus on the writers' feelings in Section B, not the reader's response. This is a common mistake that costs marks!

Section B (40 marks) requires you to write your own persuasive piece related to Section A's theme. You'll need to craft a well-structured article or speech that includes an introduction with thesis, a counter-argument that you refute, several supporting ideas, and a conclusion that links back to your opening. The marking scheme (D.R.O.P.S) evaluates multiple aspects of your writing, so aim for 1½-2 pages in 45 minutes.