Paper 2 Structure and Strategy
This paper tests your ability to analyse contemporary texts through a mix of quotation-finding, language analysis, and comparison tasks. Start smart by reading the information box and underlining key details about character, setting, and place - these clues will guide your entire exam.
Your approach should be systematic: read text 1, tackle Q1-2, then move to text 2 for Q3-4. Questions 5-6 require you to work with both texts, so keep mental notes as you read about potential similarities and contrasting perspectives.
The marking scheme rewards specific skills at each stage. Quotation questions (Q1, Q3) are worth just 1 mark each, so don't overthink them - find the exact phrase from the specified area and move on quickly.
Quick Tip: Underline key information in the question stems - they often specify exactly which part of the text to focus on, and missing this detail costs easy marks.