AQA Q2 Language Paper 2 How to Get Full Marks

Summary

This video provides a practical strategy for tackling a comparative exam question, focusing on how to highlight the differences between two characters, Simon and Marius. The speaker emphasizes using detailed textual evidence, clear point-scoring phrases like 'however' and 'in contrast', and prioritizing differences over similarities. By offering numerous differences, you maximize your chances of achieving top marks. The speaker critiques the flaws in model answers, urging students to focus on clarity and conciseness. The key takeaway is to provide a detailed yet concise response that is easy for the examiner to follow and assess.

Takeaways

• 😀 Time management is crucial in answering exam questions, with 12 minutes allocated for question two, including reading time.
• 😀 Prioritize answering question four first, as it helps with understanding both texts for question two, especially since all marks are in question four.
• 😀 Dictation apps can speed up the revision process, helping you write faster and more efficiently during exams.
• 😀 The answer should focus on the differences between Simon and Marius, not on their similarities, to score higher marks.
• 😀 Make multiple, clear points supported by evidence from the text to score between seven and eight marks.
• 😀 Use linking words like 'however', 'on the other hand', and 'in contrast' to signal the differences between characters.
• 😀 Avoid writing speculative or irrelevant information that is not directly supported by the text, as it may confuse the examiner.
• 😀 Structure your response with specific, detailed points rather than overly broad or general observations.
• 😀 Quotations from the text should be used to back up each difference, but not to be analyzed in-depth; they just demonstrate the point.
• 😀 Focus on being detailed and precise with your answers rather than being overly perceptive, as detailed answers will score higher marks.
• 😀 A concise and efficient answer (around 150–200 words) is often enough to achieve a high score without over-explaining.

Q & A

What is the main strategy suggested for answering question two in the exam?

The main strategy is to focus on identifying as many differences between Simon and Marius as possible, supported by textual evidence. The more points made, the higher the score.

Why does the speaker suggest answering question four before question two?

The speaker suggests answering question four first because it requires reading both texts, which will help in answering question two. Question four carries all the marks, so it's better to prioritize it.

How does the speaker suggest using a dictation app in exam preparation?

The speaker recommends using a dictation app during revision as it speeds up the process of writing answers and helps with efficiency.

What is the difference in mood between Simon and Marius during their respective climbs?

Simon is described as cheerful and confident, while Marius, on the other hand, is calm initially but becomes fearful when problems arise.

What is the significance of the physical differences between Simon and Marius as described in the text?

Simon is not physically described, whereas Marius is described as strong. This hints at physical attraction, but it also serves to contrast their emotional and mental states.

What does the speaker say about using quotations in the answer?

The speaker advises using numerous short quotations to back up the differences identified. These quotes should not be overanalyzed but used to clearly show contrasting points.

How should the differences between Simon and Marius be presented in the answer?

Differences should be presented clearly with phrases such as 'however,' 'on the other hand,' 'in contrast,' and 'a final difference.' This will help structure the answer and make the points easily identifiable for the examiner.

Why does the speaker criticize the examiner’s model answer?

The speaker criticizes the model answer because it includes irrelevant points, such as the effectiveness of both relationships, which are not directly tied to the question. The focus should be strictly on the differences between Simon and Marius.

What is the ideal length of the answer for question two according to the speaker?

The ideal length for the answer is around 150-200 words, which is enough to cover the main differences with evidence. The focus should be on being concise and clear rather than overly detailed.

How does the speaker suggest handling similarities in the comparison between Simon and Marius?

The speaker advises ignoring similarities, as the focus should be on the differences. Even though both characters are engaged in similar activities, only the contrasting traits should be emphasized in the answer.