HOW TO COMPARE TWO POEMS OR TWO TEXTS IN A GCSE ESSAY: GRADE 9 MODEL ANSWER FRAMEWORK & EXPLANATION

Summary

This video guide offers a comprehensive framework for writing a successful comparison essay between two texts, whether seen or unseen. It covers key steps such as crafting a strong introduction, organizing main points with consistent comparisons, and making use of quotes to support each argument. The video emphasizes comparing both texts within each paragraph, ensuring a structured and balanced essay. It concludes with tips for a concise yet impactful conclusion. The guide is designed to help students improve their essay-writing skills, ensuring they can clearly analyze and compare texts to score higher marks.

Takeaways

• 😀 Essay writing can be challenging, especially when comparing two texts, whether they are studied or unseen.
• 😀 Mastering the skill of comparing texts can significantly improve your grades, especially in exams like GCSEs, A-Levels, and university.
• 😀 The first step in writing a comparison essay is to restate the key terms of the question in your introduction.
• 😀 In the introduction, you should state how the writers present the key themes through various literary, language, or structural techniques.
• 😀 The introduction should not include quotations or detailed points; it should just introduce the topic and structure of the essay.
• 😀 When writing the main body, always start with the leading text (Text A) and compare it directly to Text B within each paragraph.
• 😀 Use transitional phrases like 'similarly' for similar points or 'on the other hand' for contrasting points between the texts.
• 😀 Each paragraph should begin with a reference to the leading text (Text A) and provide a comparison to Text B within the same sentence.
• 😀 It is important to include quotes from both texts to support your points and show evidence of your claims.
• 😀 Aim to make at least three comparison points throughout the essay to demonstrate a broad and deep understanding of the texts.
• 😀 The conclusion should summarize the key comparisons without adding new information, and restate how the writers have presented the theme in either similar or different ways.

Q & A

What is the main challenge students face when comparing two texts in an essay?

The main challenge students face is comparing two texts effectively, especially when dealing with unseen texts or texts they are already familiar with. Many students struggle with making direct and consistent comparisons, which can lead to losing marks.

What is the importance of having a clear introduction in a comparative essay?

A clear introduction is crucial because it introduces the topic, restates the keywords from the question, and sets the framework for the essay. It shows the examiner that the student understands the question and is prepared to address it directly.

How should students begin their comparative essay?

Students should start by restating the keywords from the question to clarify the focus of their essay. After that, they should state how the writers present these keywords (themes, concepts, etc.) in similar or different ways, without going into specific examples or quotes.

Why is it important to consistently compare both texts within the same paragraph?

It is important to compare both texts within the same paragraph to show a direct and continuous comparison. This approach ensures that the essay remains focused on the comparison rather than treating the texts separately.

How can students structure the body of their comparative essay?

In the body, students should start with the leading text (Text A), make a point related to the keywords, and then bring in Text B for comparison. The point should include a quote from each text, a discussion of their similarities or differences, and a closing statement that reinforces the comparison.

What keywords can be used to compare two texts in a paragraph?

Keywords such as 'similarly,' 'on the other hand,' and 'additionally' can be used to highlight similarities and differences between the texts. These transitional words help maintain the flow and clarity of the comparison.

How many points should students aim to make in a comparative essay, and why?

Students should aim to make at least three points to demonstrate a broad understanding of both texts. Making more than one point shows depth and helps ensure the comparison covers a range of perspectives.

What role does quoting from both texts play in a comparative essay?

Quoting from both texts provides evidence for the points being made. It ensures that the comparisons are grounded in the texts themselves, rather than just being personal interpretations or assumptions.

What is the purpose of the conclusion in a comparative essay?

The conclusion should restate the keywords from the question and summarize the key points made in the essay. It should reflect on the similarities or differences between the texts, but it should not introduce new points or quotations.

What common mistake should students avoid when writing a comparative essay?

Students should avoid dedicating entire paragraphs to one text at a time, as this does not constitute a true comparison. Each paragraph should compare both texts directly, showing how they address the same theme or concept.