GCSE · Chapter 4
Comparing texts and judging reliability
By the end of this chapter you will be able to
- I can compare the attitudes of two writers on the same topic.
- I can compare how two writers use evidence and language.
- I can spot loaded language and selective evidence.
- I can judge how reliable a source is, and say why.
- I can write a comparison paragraph with evidence from both texts and a judgement.
You should already know
- Retrieval and summary (Chapter 3)
- Fact and opinion (Chapter 3)
Where this leads
- Writing argument and discursive texts (Chapter 7)
- Mock exam Paper 2 (Chapter 13)
GCSE English Language. Content follows the GCSE (9-1) subject content for England (Edexcel and AQA). Content references: Compare the viewpoints, attitudes and methods of two texts on one topic (AO3), Use linking phrases to compare and contrast clearly (AO3), Identify loaded language, selective evidence and bias in a text (AO4), Judge how far a source is reliable, giving reasons and evidence (AO4), Write a comparison paragraph that uses evidence from both texts and ends with a judgement (AO3, AO4).
Exercise P Do you remember?
1
FWhat is a linking word for a contrast? Write one word.
however
Method. A contrast word shows that two things differ.
- Think about contrast. A contrast word shows a change of direction.change of direction
- Name a word. However signals a contrast.however
- Write the answer. however
Check. However shows contrast. ✓
2
FWhat does bias mean? Write the answer in one short phrase.
an unfair leaning towards one view
Method. Bias is a leaning that is not balanced.
- Think about leaning. Bias means leaning one way, not being fair to all views.leaning one way
- Write it as a phrase. An unfair leaning towards one view is bias.an unfair leaning towards one view
- Write the answer. an unfair leaning towards one view
Check. Bias is unbalanced. ✓
3
FWhat is an anecdote? Write the answer in one short phrase.
a short personal story
Method. An anecdote is a short story from a person's experience.
- Think about the story. It is a short personal account.personal account
- Write it as a phrase. A short personal story is an anecdote.a short personal story
- Write the answer. a short personal story
Check. An anecdote is personal. ✓
4
FWhat is a statistic? Write the answer in one short phrase.
a number that describes a set of data
Method. A statistic is a number from data.
- Think about numbers. Statistics come from counting or measuring.counting or measuring
- Write it as a phrase. A number that describes a set of data is a statistic.a number that describes a set of data
- Write the answer. a number that describes a set of data
Check. A statistic is a number from data. ✓
5
FWhich word class is "reckless" in "a reckless experiment"? Write one word.
adjective
Method. Reckless describes the noun experiment.
- Find what it describes. Reckless tells us about the experiment.reckless experiment
- Name the word class. A word that describes a noun is an adjective.adjective
- Write the answer. adjective
Check. Reckless describes a noun. ✓
4.1
Comparing viewpoints and attitudes
Video lesson: Comparing viewpoints and attitudesComing soon
Context. Both texts are about the new cycle lane on Harbour Road. Text D is a council news article. Text E is a letter from a resident. Read both, then compare what each writer thinks, and how strongly.
Text D: Council news, the new Harbour Road cycle lane (original article, four paragraphs)
1The new cycle lane on Harbour Road opened on Monday, and the council says it has already changed how people travel. The painted route runs for 1.8 kilometres, from the station to the school gates, and is separated from the traffic by a line of planters.
2Council officers counted cyclists during the first three days. They recorded an average of 146 journeys each morning, compared with 61 on the same days last spring. Helen Marsh, the councillor for transport, said the figures show that people want safe routes to school and work.
3Not everyone agrees. Some drivers say the planters narrow the road and cause queues at the junction, although the council has not yet measured any delays. Local shopkeepers are also worried that fewer parking spaces could mean fewer customers.
4The scheme will be reviewed in six months. Until then, residents are invited to share their experiences through the council website, and every response will be read.
Text E: A letter to the editor about Harbour Road (original letter, four paragraphs)
1I have lived on Harbour Road for thirty years, and I am tired of being told that a painted strip is progress. The new cycle lane has turned a useful road into a bottleneck. Every morning I sit in a queue behind the planters, watching the same empty bike lane beside me.
2The council's figures are misleading. I stood at the junction for an hour last Thursday and saw only nine cyclists. Nine! Yet the report celebrates a number that counts every journey, including the children who were driven round the block to try the new route.
3I also have a question for Helen Marsh. Who pays for the planters? My neighbours and I were never asked. I wrote to the council twice and never had a reply. This scheme is a reckless experiment with our time and our money, and I urge residents to write to the council before it becomes permanent.
4Yours faithfully, a resident of Harbour Road.
Key ideas
- A viewpoint is what the writer thinks about the topic.
- An attitude shows how the writer feels about it, such as support, anger or doubt.
- Compare by linking the two: similarly, in contrast, whereas, while.
Worked example 4.1.1
Which writer supports the new lane? Write D or E.
Method. Find which text gives a positive view of the lane.
- Read Text D. Text D says the lane has already changed how people travel.already changed how people travel
- Read Text E. Text E says the lane has turned a useful road into a bottleneck.turned a useful road into a bottleneck
- Choose. Only Text D supports the lane.D
- Write the answer. D
Check. Text D is positive. ✓
Worked example 4.1.2
Which linking phrase shows that the two texts differ? Choose one: similarly, in contrast or for example.
Method. Test each choice against the text.
- Read what the question asks for. Decide what the sentence or the text needs.
- Test the choice. It shows that the texts are different in their attitudes.in contrast fits
- Reject the other choices. Similarly shows agreement, and for example introduces an example, not a difference.similarly and for example do not fit
- Write the answer. in contrast
Check. The choice fits the text. ✓
Worked example 4.1.3
Compare the attitudes of the writers in one sentence, using "whereas".
Method. Name one attitude from each text, then join them with whereas.
- Name D. Text D is positive about the lane.already changed how people travel
- Name E. Text E is angry and doubtful.a reckless experiment
- Join them. Whereas shows the contrast between the two.whereas
- Write the answer. Text D is positive about the lane, whereas Text E is angry and doubtful.
Check. The two attitudes are joined with a contrast. ✓
Exercise 4A Practice: viewpoints and attitudes
1
FWhich text is written by the council or for the council? Write D or E.
D
Method. Think about who writes news from the council.
- Find the source. Text D is council news, with council figures.Council officers counted cyclists
- Choose. Text D is the council's view of the scheme.D
- Write the answer. D
Check. Text D is council news. ✓
2
FWhich writer calls the scheme "a reckless experiment"? Write D or E.
E
Method. Find the phrase.
- Find the phrase. The phrase appears in the letter.a reckless experiment with our time and our money
- Choose. The phrase is in Text E.E
- Write the answer. E
Check. The phrase is in Text E. ✓
3
PSWhich writer is more negative about the lane? Write D or E.
E
Method. Compare how each text describes the lane.
- Compare. Text E uses words such as bottleneck and reckless.bottleneck
- Choose. Text E is more negative.E
- Write the answer. E
Check. E is more negative. ✓
4
FIn which paragraph of Text E does the writer ask the councillor a question? Write the number.
3
Method. Find the question.
- Find the question. The writer asks who pays for the planters.Who pays for the planters?
- Give the number. The question is in paragraph 3.3
- Write the answer. 3
Check. Paragraph 3 holds the question. ✓
5
PSWhich text uses the word "progress" in a sceptical way? Write D or E.
E
Method. Find the word.
- Find the word. Text E says a painted strip is not progress.tired of being told that a painted strip is progress
- Choose. The sceptical use is in Text E.E
- Write the answer. E
Check. E is sceptical. ✓
6
FWhat average number of journeys does Text D report each morning? Write the number.
146
Method. Find the average.
- Find the average. Text D reports an average of 146 journeys each morning.an average of 146 journeys each morning
- Give the number. The average is 146.146
- Write the answer. 146
Check. The average is 146. ✓
7
PSWhich text says residents can share their experiences? Write D or E.
D
Method. Find the invitation.
- Find the invitation. Residents are invited to share their experiences.residents are invited to share their experiences
- Choose. The invitation is in Text D.D
- Write the answer. D
Check. D invites responses. ✓
8
RCompare the attitudes of the two writers towards the planters in one sentence each.
Accept any answer that compares the attitude to the planters in both texts, one clear point for each. For example: Text D says the planters may narrow the road; Text E says they are a problem that was never discussed.
Method. Find the planters in each text and say what each writer thinks.
- Text D. Some drivers say the planters narrow the road, which is reported.the planters narrow the road
- Text E. The letter writer says the planters were never discussed.My neighbours and I were never asked
- Write the answer. Text D says the planters may narrow the road; Text E says they are a problem that was never discussed.
Check. Both attitudes are compared. ✓
9
RWhich phrase in Text E shows the writer's anger about the lane? Copy the phrase.
a reckless experiment
Method. Find the strongest phrase of anger.
- Find the phrase. The phrase describes the scheme as reckless.a reckless experiment
- Copy it. Copy the phrase exactly.a reckless experiment
- Write the answer. a reckless experiment
Check. The phrase shows strong anger. ✓
10
RCompare the tone of the two texts in one sentence, using a linking phrase.
Accept any answer that compares the tone of the two texts with a linking phrase such as whereas, similarly or in contrast. For example: Text D is neutral and informative, whereas Text E is emotional and critical.
Method. Name each tone and join them.
- Name D. Text D is neutral and informative.neutral
- Name E. Text E is emotional and critical.emotional
- Write the answer. Text D is neutral and informative, whereas Text E is emotional and critical.
Check. The tones are compared with a linking word. ✓
11
RWhich writer describes a feeling of being tired? Write D or E.
E
Method. Find the feeling.
- Find the feeling. Text E says the writer is tired of being told that a painted strip is progress.I am tired of being told
- Choose. The feeling is in Text E.E
- Write the answer. E
Check. E describes tiredness. ✓
4.2
Comparing methods and evidence
Video lesson: Comparing methods and evidenceComing soon
Context. Writers persuade in different ways. Text D uses figures from the council and quotations from a councillor. Text E uses a personal observation, an exclamation and rhetorical questions. Compare the methods, not just the opinions.
Key ideas
- Statistics are numbers from counting or measuring.
- An anecdote or personal observation is a short account from one person's experience.
- Compare methods using linking phrases: both writers use, whereas one uses, similarly.
Worked example 4.2.1
What kind of evidence does Text E mainly use? Choose one: a personal observation of one hour, a survey of three days or a quotation from a scientist.
Method. Test each choice against the text.
- Read what the question asks for. Decide what the sentence or the text needs.
- Test the choice. The writer stood at the junction for an hour and counted cyclists.a personal observation of one hour fits
- Reject the other choices. Text D uses counts over three days, and Text E quotes no scientist.a survey of three days and a quotation from a scientist do not fit
- Write the answer. a personal observation of one hour
Check. The choice fits the text. ✓
Worked example 4.2.2
Which technique is used in "Nine!"? Write one word.
Method. Look at the punctuation.
- Find the word. Nine is followed by an exclamation mark.Nine!
- Explain the device. The exclamation adds emphasis and shows the writer is surprised.emphasis
- Name it. The punctuation is an exclamation.exclamation
- Write the answer. exclamation
Check. The exclamation mark gives emphasis. ✓
Worked example 4.2.3
Compare how the two texts use evidence, in one sentence, using a linking phrase.
Method. Name each text's evidence and join them with a linking phrase.
- Name D. Text D uses council figures over three days.average of 146 journeys
- Name E. Text E uses one hour of personal observation.for an hour
- Join. Whereas shows the difference in method.whereas
- Write the answer. Text D uses council figures over three days, whereas Text E uses one hour of personal observation.
Check. The methods are compared with a link. ✓
Exercise 4B Practice: methods and evidence
1
FWhich text uses a statistic from counting over several days? Write D or E.
D
Method. Find the count.
- Find the count. Text D counted cyclists over the first three days.counted cyclists during the first three days
- Choose. The statistic is in Text D.D
- Write the answer. D
Check. D uses a statistic. ✓
2
FWhich text uses a personal observation? Write D or E.
E
Method. Find the first-hand account.
- Find it. The writer stood at the junction for an hour.I stood at the junction for an hour last Thursday
- Choose. This is a personal observation in Text E.E
- Write the answer. E
Check. E uses an observation. ✓
3
FWhich technique is used in "Who pays for the planters?" Write one word.
rhetorical question
Method. Ask whether an answer is expected.
- Look at the question. The writer does not give an answer to the councillor.Who pays for the planters?
- Name the device. A question asked for effect is a rhetorical question.rhetorical question
- Write the answer. rhetorical question
Check. The question is asked for effect. ✓
4
FWhich technique does "turned a useful road into a bottleneck" use? Write one word: simile, metaphor or question.
metaphor
Method. Look for a comparison without like or as.
- Find the comparison. The road is said to be a bottleneck, without like or as.turned a useful road into a bottleneck
- Name it. A comparison without like or as is a metaphor.metaphor
- Write the answer. metaphor
Check. No like or as is used, so it is a metaphor. ✓
5
PSWhich word in Text E is an emotive adjective? Write one word: reckless, junction or lane.
reckless
Method. Find the word with strong feeling.
- Find the feeling. Reckless shows strong disapproval.a reckless experiment
- Choose. Reckless is the emotive adjective.reckless
- Write the answer. reckless
Check. Reckless is emotive. ✓
6
PSWhich text quotes a named councillor? Write D or E.
D
Method. Find the quotation from a person.
- Find the quotation. Helen Marsh, the councillor for transport, is quoted in Text D.Helen Marsh, the councillor for transport
- Choose. Text D quotes a councillor.D
- Write the answer. D
Check. Text D quotes a councillor. ✓
7
RExplain how the writer of Text E uses an anecdote to support the view. Write one sentence.
Accept any answer that explains that the anecdote gives a personal, vivid account, but it covers only a short time. For example: The writer describes one hour at the junction, which makes the view feel personal, but it is only one hour.
Method. Name the anecdote and say what it does.
- Name the anecdote. The writer stood at the junction for an hour.for an hour
- Explain its effect. It feels personal, but covers one short time.one short time
- Write the answer. The writer describes one hour at the junction, which makes the view feel personal, but it is only one hour.
Check. The anecdote is personal and limited. ✓
8
PSWhich phrase in Text E is a statistic-like claim? Write the number it gives: nine, one or sixty.
nine
Method. Find the number in the letter.
- Find the number. The writer saw only nine cyclists.saw only nine cyclists
- Give the number. The number in the letter is nine.nine
- Write the answer. nine
Check. Nine is the number in the letter. ✓
9
RCompare how the two writers use the word "figures" or "numbers". Write one sentence.
Accept any answer that compares how the texts use figures, with one using them to support and one questioning them, with a linking word. For example: Text D uses figures to support the scheme, whereas Text E says the figures are misleading.
Method. Name each use, then join them.
- Text D. The council uses figures to support the scheme.the figures show
- Text E. The letter says the council figures are misleading.The council's figures are misleading
- Write the answer. Text D uses figures to support the scheme, whereas Text E says the figures are misleading.
Check. Both uses of figures are compared. ✓
10
RWhich text uses a quotation from a person to support its view? Write D or E.
D
Method. Find the source of the quotation.
- Find the quotation. The councillor says the figures show that people want safe routes.people want safe routes to school and work
- Choose. The quotation is in Text D.D
- Write the answer. D
Check. D uses a quotation. ✓
4.3
Bias, loaded language and selective evidence
Video lesson: Bias, loaded language and selective evidenceComing soon
Context. A text is biased when it presents one side unfairly. Loaded language uses words with strong positive or negative feelings. Selective evidence chooses only the facts that support a view. Check what each writer includes and what is left out.
Key ideas
- Loaded language makes the reader feel a certain way about something.
- Selective evidence uses only some facts, often leaving out evidence that goes against the view.
- Ask: how big is the sample, how long was it measured, and who collected the evidence?
Worked example 4.3.1
What is the limitation of the evidence in Text E? Give one limitation.
Method. Look at how much evidence the writer uses.
- Find the evidence. The writer stood at the junction for an hour last Thursday.for an hour last Thursday
- Judge the scale. One hour on one day is a small sample.a small sample
- Give the limitation. The evidence covers only one short period.it covers one hour on one day
- Write the answer. it covers one hour on one day
Check. The limitation matches the sample. ✓
Worked example 4.3.2
Which is the most reliable evidence about the cycle lane? Choose one: one hour on one day at one junction, an average from three days of counting or a single comment from one driver.
Method. Test each choice against the text.
- Read what the question asks for. Decide what the sentence or the text needs.
- Test the choice. Counting over three days gives a larger and more varied sample than one hour.an average from three days of counting fits
- Reject the other choices. One hour, one junction and one driver are each a small or single sample.one hour on one day at one junction and a single comment from one driver do not fit
- Write the answer. an average from three days of counting
Check. The choice fits the text. ✓
Worked example 4.3.3
Which phrase in Text D is not yet supported by evidence? Quote it.
Method. Look for a claim that the writer says has not been checked.
- Find the claim. Drivers say the planters cause queues.cause queues at the junction
- Check the evidence. The council says it has not measured the delays.has not yet measured any delays
- Give the answer. The claim about delays is not supported yet.although the council has not yet measured any delays
- Write the answer. although the council has not yet measured any delays
Check. The claim is flagged as unmeasured. ✓
Exercise 4C Practice: bias and selective evidence
1
FWhich word in Text E is loaded and negative? Write one word: reckless, junction or lane.
reckless
Method. Find a strong negative word.
- Find the word. Reckless carries a strong negative feeling.reckless experiment
- Choose. Reckless is loaded.reckless
- Write the answer. reckless
Check. Reckless is loaded. ✓
2
PSWhat does Text E leave out of its criticism? Write one word: the average, the planters or the lane.
the average
Method. Compare what E uses with what D uses.
- Compare. Text D uses an average over three days, but E does not mention the average.average of 146 journeys
- Choose. The average is what E leaves out.the average
- Write the answer. the average
Check. E does not use the average. ✓
3
RWhich evidence is more reliable: an average over three days, or one hour on one day? Write the words of the more reliable.
an average over three days
Method. Think about sample size.
- Compare the samples. Three days gives more journeys than one hour.three days
- Choose. The average over three days is more reliable.an average over three days
- Write the answer. an average over three days
Check. More days means a larger sample. ✓
4
PSWhich claim in Text D is not yet supported by measurement? Write one word: delays, parking or cyclists.
delays
Method. Find the claim that is flagged.
- Find the flagged claim. The council has not yet measured any delays.has not yet measured any delays
- Choose. The unmeasured claim is about delays.delays
- Write the answer. delays
Check. The delays are not measured. ✓
5
RExplain one way Text E uses selective evidence. Write one sentence.
Accept any answer that explains that E picks one short observation and ignores the wider count. For example: It uses only the nine cyclists it saw in an hour and ignores the three-day count in Text D.
Method. Find the evidence chosen and what is left out.
- Find the chosen evidence. The writer chose one hour and nine cyclists.saw only nine cyclists
- Find what is ignored. The wider three-day count is not mentioned.three-day count
- Write the answer. It uses only the nine cyclists it saw in an hour and ignores the three-day count in Text D.
Check. The selection is shown. ✓
6
RWhich text reports a negative view from drivers? Write D or E.
D
Method. Find the drivers.
- Find the drivers. Some drivers say the planters narrow the road.Some drivers say the planters narrow the road
- Choose. Text D reports the view of drivers, so it is balanced in part.D
- Write the answer. D
Check. D reports a critical view. ✓
7
PSGive one piece of loaded language from Text D, and say whether it is positive or negative.
Accept any answer that quotes a word or phrase from Text D such as already changed or safe routes, and labels it positive. For example: The council says the lane has "already changed how people travel", which is positive.
Method. Find a word with feeling, then decide whether it is positive.
- Find the phrase. The lane has already changed how people travel.already changed how people travel
- Judge its tone. The phrase suggests a positive effect of the lane.a positive effect
- Write the answer. The council says the lane has "already changed how people travel", which is positive.
Check. The loaded phrase is positive. ✓
8
RWhich text is more likely to be biased against the lane? Write D or E.
E
Method. Consider the loaded language and the evidence.
- Look at the language. Text E uses words such as reckless and misleading.misleading
- Choose. Text E is more openly against the lane.E
- Write the answer. E
Check. E is more openly critical. ✓
9
RExplain why a single observation at a junction is not enough to prove the lane causes queues. Write one sentence.
Accept any answer that explains that one observation in one place on one day is too small to prove a cause. For example: One observation at one junction on one day cannot show the cause of queues for the whole road.
Method. Think about the size and the place of the observation.
- Think about the place. One junction is a small place.one junction
- Think about the cause. The cause of queues needs more evidence than one hour.more evidence
- Write the answer. One observation at one junction on one day cannot show the cause of queues for the whole road.
Check. A small sample cannot prove a cause. ✓
10
RWhich phrase in Text E is an opinion rather than a fact? Write the phrase: "I stood at the junction for an hour" or "This scheme is a reckless experiment".
This scheme is a reckless experiment
Method. Decide which sentence states a judgement.
- Compare the sentences. The first reports an action; the second judges the scheme.reckless experiment
- Choose. The judgement is the opinion.This scheme is a reckless experiment
- Write the answer. This scheme is a reckless experiment
Check. The judgement is an opinion. ✓
4.4
Judging how reliable a source is
Video lesson: Judging how reliable a source isComing soon
Context. Reliability depends on who wrote the text, why, what evidence it uses and whether the evidence is complete. A reliable source is honest about its limits. A less reliable source makes big claims from little evidence.
Key ideas
- Consider the author, the purpose, the evidence and the balance.
- A judgement about reliability says how far you trust the text and why.
- A source can be useful and still biased: judge both.
Worked example 4.4.1
Which judgement about Text E is fair? Choose one: Text E is always wrong., Text E gives one personal view with limited evidence, so it is partly reliable. or Text E is a fact sheet..
Method. Test each choice against the text.
- Read what the question asks for. Decide what the sentence or the text needs.
- Test the choice. It weighs the strength of the evidence and gives a balanced judgement.Text E gives one personal view with limited evidence, so it is partly reliable. fits
- Reject the other choices. Always wrong ignores the writer's real experience, and a fact sheet is not what a letter is.Text E is always wrong. and Text E is a fact sheet. do not fit
- Write the answer. Text E gives one personal view with limited evidence, so it is partly reliable.
Check. The choice fits the text. ✓
Worked example 4.4.2
What is the purpose of Text D? Write one word: inform, persuade or entertain.
Method. Look at the aim of the article.
- Find the purpose. The article reports the council's figures and the review.The scheme will be reviewed
- Judge the aim. Its main aim is to report information.report information
- Give the word. The purpose is to inform.inform
- Write the answer. inform
Check. The article informs readers. ✓
Worked example 4.4.3
Give one reason why Text D may be less than fully neutral.
Method. Think about who published the article.
- Think about the source. The council wrote the article about its own scheme.Council officers counted cyclists
- Think about the interest. It has a reason to show success.a reason to show success
- Give the reason. The council has an interest in the scheme succeeding.the council has a reason to show the scheme as a success
- Write the answer. the council has a reason to show the scheme as a success
Check. The interest of the source is named. ✓
Exercise 4D Practice: judging reliability
1
FWho is the author of Text E? Write one phrase.
a resident of Harbour Road
Method. Read the sign-off.
- Read the sign-off. The letter is signed by a resident.a resident of Harbour Road
- Give the author. The author is a resident.a resident of Harbour Road
- Write the answer. a resident of Harbour Road
Check. The sign-off names the author. ✓
2
FWhat is the purpose of Text E? Write one word: inform, persuade or entertain.
persuade
Method. Look at what the letter wants.
- Find the aim. The writer urges residents to write to the council.I urge residents to write to the council
- Name the purpose. Urging action is persuasion.persuade
- Write the answer. persuade
Check. The letter persuades. ✓
3
RTrue or false: Text E gives enough evidence to be fully reliable about all cyclists. Write true or false.
false
Method. Check the size of the evidence.
- Check the evidence. The writer saw nine cyclists in one hour.saw only nine cyclists
- Decide. That is too little to be fully reliable about all cyclists.false
- Write the answer. false
Check. The evidence is too small. ✓
4
RWhich source has the more complete evidence? Write D or E.
D
Method. Compare the amount and the kind of evidence.
- Compare. Text D gives counts over three days and a review plan.average of 146 journeys
- Choose. Text D has more complete evidence.D
- Write the answer. D
Check. D has more evidence. ✓
5
RGive one reason why Text E may still be useful. Write one sentence.
Accept any answer that says the letter gives a personal, everyday view that the figures do not show. For example: It gives a personal view of how the lane affects daily life, which the council figures do not show.
Method. Think about what the letter adds to the figures.
- Think about the view. The writer describes daily life in a queue.Every morning I sit in a queue
- Explain the use. This adds a human view to the figures.a human view
- Write the answer. It gives a personal view of how the lane affects daily life, which the council figures do not show.
Check. The letter adds a personal view. ✓
6
RWhich judgement is most balanced? Write A or B. A: "E is right and D is wrong." B: "D has more evidence, but E shows a daily experience that the figures may miss."
B
Method. A balanced judgement weighs both texts.
- Check A. A takes one side and dismisses the other.right and wrong
- Check B. B weighs both texts with a reason.may miss
- Write the answer. B
Check. B weighs both sides. ✓
7
PSHow far do you agree that the writer of Text E is reliable? Give one reason and one quotation.
Accept any answer that gives a clear judgement (agree, partly agree or disagree) with one reason and an exact quotation from Text E. For example: I partly agree, because the writer gives a real experience, although one hour is not enough: "I stood at the junction for an hour last Thursday"
Method. Make a judgement, then support it with a reason and a quotation.
- Make the judgement. The writer is partly reliable.partly reliable
- Give the reason. The observation is real but limited.real but limited
- Quote the evidence. The phrase shows the short observation.I stood at the junction for an hour last Thursday
- Write the answer. I partly agree, because the writer gives a real experience, although one hour is not enough: "I stood at the junction for an hour last Thursday"
Check. The judgement is supported by a quotation. ✓
8
RTrue or false: the council's figures are completely free of bias. Write true or false.
false
Method. Think about who collected the figures.
- Think about the source. The council wrote the article and collected the figures.Council officers counted cyclists
- Decide. The figures may still be selected to show success.false
- Write the answer. false
Check. Official sources can still be biased. ✓
9
PSWhat extra evidence would make Text E more reliable? Give one idea.
Accept any answer that suggests a larger or longer sample, such as counts over several days or at other junctions. For example: Counts over several days at different times, so the observation covers more than one hour.
Method. Think about what the letter is missing.
- Find the gap. One hour on one day is a small sample.one hour
- Suggest a fix. More counts over longer periods would be better.longer periods
- Write the answer. Counts over several days at different times, so the observation covers more than one hour.
Check. A bigger sample would be better. ✓
10
PSWhich phrase in Text D shows that the council wants feedback? Copy the phrase.
every response will be read
Method. Find the invitation to respond.
- Find the phrase. The council promises that every response will be read.every response will be read
- Copy it. Copy the phrase exactly.every response will be read
- Write the answer. every response will be read
Check. The phrase invites feedback. ✓
4.5
Writing a comparison paragraph
Video lesson: Writing a comparison paragraphComing soon
Context. A comparison paragraph has a topic sentence that compares, evidence from both texts, linking phrases, and a final judgement. Plan the paragraph before you write it. Use the linking phrases in the key ideas box.
Key ideas
- Topic sentence: compare the two texts on one point.
- Evidence: quote or name one detail from each text.
- Linking phrases: similarly, in contrast, whereas, while, on the other hand.
- Judgement: end with which text is more convincing and why.
Worked example 4.5.1
Which phrase is a linking phrase for showing a difference? Choose one: similarly, whereas or in addition.
Method. Test each choice against the text.
- Read what the question asks for. Decide what the sentence or the text needs.
- Test the choice. Whereas shows a difference between two things.whereas fits
- Reject the other choices. Similarly shows agreement, and in addition adds a point.similarly and in addition do not fit
- Write the answer. whereas
Check. The choice fits the text. ✓
Worked example 4.5.2
Write a topic sentence that compares the two texts on the use of evidence.
Method. Make one point about both texts.
- Name the topic. The point is the use of evidence.use of evidence
- Link the texts. Both is a linking phrase for comparison.Both
- Write the sentence. Both texts use evidence, but in different ways.Both texts use evidence, but in different ways.
- Write the answer. Both texts use evidence, but in different ways.
Check. The topic sentence compares the texts. ✓
Worked example 4.5.3
Give the final sentence of a comparison paragraph about reliability. Use your own words.
Method. Give a judgement and a reason in your last sentence.
- Make the judgement. Text D is more reliable.more reliable
- Give the reason. Its evidence covers a longer period.a longer period
- Write it. The final sentence gives the judgement and the reason.On balance, Text D is more reliable because its evidence covers a longer period.
- Write the answer. On balance, Text D is more reliable because its evidence covers a longer period.
Check. The judgement ends the paragraph. ✓
Exercise 4E Practice: comparison paragraphs
1
FWhich linking phrase shows agreement? Write one word: whereas, similarly or however.
similarly
Method. Think about the meaning of each word.
- Think about the meaning. Similarly shows that two things are alike.alike
- Name the word. The agreement word is similarly.similarly
- Write the answer. similarly
Check. Similarly shows agreement. ✓
2
FWhich linking phrase shows contrast? Write one word: whereas, similarly or also.
whereas
Method. Think about difference.
- Think about difference. Whereas shows a difference.difference
- Name the word. The contrast word is whereas.whereas
- Write the answer. whereas
Check. Whereas shows contrast. ✓
3
RWrite one comparison sentence about the purpose of the two texts, using whereas.
Accept any answer that compares the purpose of D (to inform) and E (to persuade), with whereas. For example: Text D aims to inform readers about the scheme, whereas Text E aims to persuade the council to act.
Method. Name each purpose, then join them.
- Text D. D informs readers.inform
- Text E. E persuades the council.persuade
- Join them. Whereas shows the difference.whereas
- Write the answer. Text D aims to inform readers about the scheme, whereas Text E aims to persuade the council to act.
Check. Both purposes are compared. ✓
4
RWhat should the last sentence of a comparison paragraph give? Write one phrase.
a judgement
Method. Think about how a paragraph ends.
- Think about the end. The final sentence says which text is more convincing.more convincing
- Name the ending. The final sentence gives a judgement.a judgement
- Write the answer. a judgement
Check. The judgement closes the paragraph. ✓
5
PSWrite a topic sentence comparing the attitude of the two writers to the planters.
Accept any answer that makes a comparison about the planters in one sentence, with both attitudes. For example: Both writers discuss the planters, but Text D sees them as a sensible safety feature while Text E sees them as a problem.
Method. Make one point about both texts.
- Name the topic. The planters are the shared topic.planters
- Name both attitudes. D is positive, E is critical.positive and critical
- Write the answer. Both writers discuss the planters, but Text D sees them as a sensible safety feature while Text E sees them as a problem.
Check. The topic sentence compares both. ✓
6
PSAdd one piece of evidence from Text D to a comparison about the lane's use. Quote the exact words.
Accept any answer that quotes one exact phrase from Text D about use or travel. For example: Text D says the lane has "already changed how people travel".
Method. Choose a phrase and quote it exactly.
- Find the phrase. The council says the lane has already changed how people travel.already changed how people travel
- Quote it. Copy the phrase exactly.already changed how people travel
- Write the answer. Text D says the lane has "already changed how people travel".
Check. The quotation is exact. ✓
7
PSAdd one piece of evidence from Text E to the same comparison. Quote the exact words.
Accept any answer that quotes one exact phrase from Text E about the road or the lane. For example: Text E says the lane "has turned a useful road into a bottleneck".
Method. Choose a phrase and quote it exactly.
- Find the phrase. The writer says the lane has turned a road into a bottleneck.turned a useful road into a bottleneck
- Quote it. Copy the phrase exactly.turned a useful road into a bottleneck
- Write the answer. Text E says the lane "has turned a useful road into a bottleneck".
Check. The quotation is exact. ✓
8
RWhich is the better paragraph ending? Write A or B. A: "The end." B: "On balance, the council evidence is more reliable, although it may be selective."
B
Method. A good ending gives a judgement with a reason.
- Check A. A gives no judgement or reason.no judgement
- Check B. B gives a judgement and a reason.more reliable
- Write the answer. B
Check. B gives a judgement. ✓
9
RExplain why a comparison paragraph needs evidence from both texts. Write one sentence.
Accept any answer that explains that a comparison needs evidence from both texts to show similarities and differences. For example: Because a comparison must show what is similar and different, so it needs evidence from both.
Method. Think about what a comparison shows.
- Think about compare. A comparison shows similarity and difference.similarity and difference
- Explain the need. Only one text cannot show a difference.one text cannot show
- Write the answer. Because a comparison must show what is similar and different, so it needs evidence from both.
Check. Both texts are needed for a comparison. ✓
10
PSWhich phrase introduces a comparison of attitudes? Write one word: however, similarly or finally.
similarly
Method. Think about showing likeness.
- Think about the job. Similarly shows two attitudes that match.match
- Name it. Similarly is the comparison word.similarly
- Write the answer. similarly
Check. Similarly introduces a likeness. ✓
Chapter summary
| Skill | Method |
|---|---|
| Compare viewpoints and attitudes | Name each writer's view and how strongly they feel, then join them with whereas, similarly or in contrast |
| Compare methods and evidence | Name the evidence (statistics, quotations, personal observation) and the devices, then compare them |
| Loaded language and bias | Find the emotive words and the claims, and say what is left out |
| Selective evidence and sample size | Ask how big the sample is, how long it covers, and who collected it |
| Judge reliability | Consider author, purpose and evidence, then make a judgement with a reason and a quotation |
| Comparison paragraph | Topic sentence, evidence from both texts, linking words, and a final judgement |
Can you…?
- I can compare the viewpoints and attitudes of two writers on one topic
- I can compare how two writers use evidence and language
- I can identify loaded language and selective evidence
- I can judge how reliable a source is, with a reason and a quotation
- I can write a comparison paragraph with evidence from both texts and a judgement
Key terms
- bias
- an unfair leaning towards one view
- loaded language
- words with strong positive or negative feelings
- selective evidence
- choosing only the facts that support a view
- anecdote
- a short personal story or observation
- statistic
- a number that describes a set of data
- sample
- the part of a group that is studied or counted
- reliable
- trustworthy, honest about its limits and supported by evidence
Exercise 4Z Check-up
1
Which writer supports the new lane? Write D or E.
D
Method. Find which text is positive.
- Read Text D. Text D says the lane has already changed how people travel.already changed how people travel
- Choose. Only Text D is positive.D
- Write the answer. D
Check. Text D is positive. ✓
2
Which writer calls the scheme "a reckless experiment"? Write D or E.
E
Method. Find the phrase.
- Find the phrase. The phrase is in the letter.a reckless experiment
- Choose. The phrase is in Text E.E
- Write the answer. E
Check. The phrase is in E. ✓
3
What average number of journeys does Text D report each morning? Write the number.
146
Method. Find the average.
- Find the average. Text D reports an average of 146 journeys.an average of 146 journeys each morning
- Give the number. The average is 146.146
- Write the answer. 146
Check. The number is copied. ✓
4
What kind of evidence does Text E mainly use? Write one phrase.
a personal observation of one hour
Method. Find the observation.
- Find it. The writer stood at the junction for an hour.I stood at the junction for an hour last Thursday
- Name it. It is a personal observation of one hour.a personal observation of one hour
- Write the answer. a personal observation of one hour
Check. The observation is personal. ✓
5
Which technique is used in "Who pays for the planters?" Write one word.
rhetorical question
Method. Ask whether an answer is expected.
- Look at the question. The writer does not give the answer.Who pays for the planters?
- Name it. A question for effect is a rhetorical question.rhetorical question
- Write the answer. rhetorical question
Check. The question is for effect. ✓
6
Which word in Text E is an emotive adjective? Write one word.
reckless
Method. Find the strong feeling word.
- Find the feeling. Reckless shows strong disapproval.reckless
- Name it. Reckless is the emotive adjective.reckless
- Write the answer. reckless
Check. Reckless is emotive. ✓
7
Which claim in Text D is not yet supported by measurement? Write one word.
delays
Method. Find the flagged claim.
- Find it. The council has not yet measured any delays.has not yet measured any delays
- Name it. The unmeasured claim is about delays.delays
- Write the answer. delays
Check. The delays are not yet measured. ✓
8
Which text is more likely to be biased against the lane? Write D or E.
E
Method. Consider the loaded language and the evidence.
- Look at the language. Text E uses misleading and reckless.misleading
- Choose. Text E is more openly critical.E
- Write the answer. E
Check. E is more openly critical. ✓
9
Compare the purposes of the two texts in one sentence, using whereas.
Accept any sentence that says D aims to inform and E aims to persuade, joined with whereas. For example: Text D aims to inform readers, whereas Text E aims to persuade the council.
Method. Name each purpose, then join them.
- Text D. D aims to inform readers.inform
- Text E. E aims to persuade the council.persuade
- Join. Whereas shows the difference.whereas
- Write the answer. Text D aims to inform readers, whereas Text E aims to persuade the council.
Check. Both purposes are compared. ✓
10
How far do you agree that the writer of Text E is reliable? Give one judgement and one reason.
Accept any judgement (agree, partly agree or disagree) with one reason from Text E, such as one hour being too short a sample. For example: I partly agree, because the writer saw nine cyclists in only one hour.
Method. Make a judgement, then give one reason.
- Make the judgement. The writer is partly reliable.partly reliable
- Give the reason. The observation covers only one hour.one hour
- Write the answer. I partly agree, because the writer saw nine cyclists in only one hour.
Check. The judgement is supported. ✓
Total 30 marks. Allow about 30 minutes.
Exercise 4X Exam-style questions
1
FText: "The scheme will be reviewed in six months." Which writer is the council or for the council? Write D or E, from the text where the statement appears.[1 mark]
D
Method. Find the source of the sentence.
- Find the source. The statement is in the council news article.The scheme will be reviewed in six months
- Choose. The source is Text D.D
- Write the answer. D
Check. The sentence is from Text D. ✓
2
FText: "I stood at the junction for an hour last Thursday and saw only nine cyclists." Which evidence does this writer use? Write one phrase.[1 mark]
a personal observation
Method. Name the kind of evidence.
- Read the sentence. The writer reports what they saw personally.I stood at the junction
- Name it. It is a personal observation.a personal observation
- Write the answer. a personal observation
Check. It is first-hand. ✓
3
RText: "Council officers counted cyclists during the first three days." Give one reason this evidence is more reliable than one hour at a junction. Use your own words.[2 marks]
Accept any answer that says three days gives a larger sample than one hour, or that counting over days is less affected by one unusual moment. For example: three days gives a bigger sample than one hour.
Method. Compare the size of the samples.
- Compare the time. Three days is more than one hour.three days
- Explain why it matters. A bigger sample is less affected by one unusual moment.one unusual moment
- Write the answer. three days gives a bigger sample than one hour.
Check. The sample size is compared. ✓
4
RText: "Who pays for the planters? My neighbours and I were never asked." Explain how these two sentences show the writer's attitude. Use your own words.[3 marks]
Accept any answer that says the writer feels ignored or angry about not being consulted, and that the questions show doubt or annoyance. For example: the writer feels ignored and is annoyed.
Method. Explain the attitude and its evidence.
- Read the question. The writer asks who pays, which shows annoyance.Who pays for the planters?
- Read the second sentence. The writer says they were never asked, which shows feeling ignored.never asked
- Explain the attitude. The writer feels ignored and annoyed.ignored and annoyed
- Write the answer. the writer feels ignored and is annoyed.
Check. The attitude is linked to the evidence. ✓
5
RText: "the council says it has already changed how people travel." Explain how this sentence uses evidence to persuade. Use your own words.[3 marks]
Accept any answer that says the claim is made as a confident fact, supported by the council's figures, which makes the scheme seem successful. For example: the claim is confident and is based on council figures, so it seems convincing.
Method. Name the device and explain the effect.
- Name the source. The council is the source of the claim.The council says
- Explain the effect. A confident claim based on figures seems convincing.seems convincing
- Write the answer. the claim is confident and is based on council figures, so it seems convincing.
Check. The effect of the claim is explained. ✓
6
RText: "The council's figures are misleading." Judge how far this claim is fair, using one reason. Use your own words.[3 marks]
Accept any judgement that the claim is partly fair, because one hour does not show the full picture, or that it is unfair, because the council counted over three days. For example: partly fair, because one hour is too short to judge the figures.
Method. Make a judgement and give one reason.
- Make the judgement. The claim is partly fair.partly fair
- Give the reason. One hour is too short a sample.too short a sample
- Write the answer. partly fair, because one hour is too short to judge the figures.
Check. The judgement has a reason. ✓
7
RText: "Some drivers say the planters narrow the road and cause queues at the junction, although the council has not yet measured any delays." Explain how the writer uses this sentence to show balance. Use your own words.[4 marks]
Accept any answer that says the sentence reports a critical view, and that the council admits the delays are unmeasured, which shows balance. For example: it reports a critical view and admits the delays are not measured, so it is balanced.
Method. Explain the balance.
- Find the critical view. Some drivers are critical.Some drivers say
- Find the admission. The council admits the delays are not measured.has not yet measured
- Explain the balance. The text reports criticism and admits a gap.admits a gap
- Write the answer. it reports a critical view and admits the delays are not measured, so it is balanced.
Check. The balance is explained with evidence. ✓
8
RText D says "every response will be read". Text E says "I urge residents to write to the council". Compare how the two texts invite a response. Use linking words.[4 marks]
Accept any answer that compares the two invitations, using a linking word such as whereas or similarly, and says the council invites responses while the resident urges action. For example: Text D invites responses, whereas Text E urges residents to act.
Method. Compare the two invitations.
- Text D. The council invites responses, and promises to read them.every response will be read
- Text E. The resident urges residents to take action.urges residents to act
- Join them. Whereas shows the difference between an invitation and an urge.whereas
- Write the answer. Text D invites responses, whereas Text E urges residents to act.
Check. Both invitations are compared. ✓
9
RText D says "the planters narrow the road" in one place, and Text E says "a bottleneck" in another. Compare how the two texts describe the road. Give one comparison using a linking word.[4 marks]
Accept any answer that compares the description of the road in Text D (narrower road, a neutral claim from drivers) and Text E (a bottleneck), with a linking word. For example: Text D reports drivers saying the planters narrow the road, whereas Text E calls the road a bottleneck.
Method. Compare the descriptions with a linking word.
- Text D. Drivers say the planters narrow the road.narrow the road
- Text E. The writer says the lane has created a bottleneck.bottleneck
- Join. Whereas shows the contrast in the two descriptions.whereas
- Write the answer. Text D reports drivers saying the planters narrow the road, whereas Text E calls the road a bottleneck.
Check. The descriptions are compared with a link. ✓
10
RText E says: "The council's figures are misleading." Text D says: "146 journeys each morning". Compare the two texts on the use of figures and judge which is more reliable. Give one reason.[5 marks]
Accept any answer that compares the use of figures and gives a judgement with a reason, such as Text D is more reliable because it uses an average over three days. For example: Text D is more reliable, because its average covers three days rather than one hour.
Method. Compare the figures, then judge with a reason.
- Text D. Text D uses an average over several days.an average of 146 journeys
- Text E. Text E claims the figures are misleading, from one hour.misleading
- Judge. Text D is more reliable, because its average covers three days.covers three days
- Write the answer. Text D is more reliable, because its average covers three days rather than one hour.
Check. The judgement and reason are given. ✓