GCSE · Chapter 13
Mock exam: Paper 2 (non-fiction, comparison and transactional writing)
By the end of this chapter you will be able to
- I can list four correct details from a non-fiction text.
- I can summarise the main points of a part of a text, in my own words.
- I can explain how a non-fiction writer uses language and structure to create an effect.
- I can compare the attitudes of two writers, with linking words and evidence from both.
- I can plan and write a transactional piece for a clear purpose and audience.
- I can mark my own paper and set a next step.
You should already know
- Chapters 3 and 4: non-fiction and comparison
- Chapters 7 and 8: argument, speeches, letters and articles
Where this leads
- Spoken language and presenting (Chapter 9, for the endorsement)
GCSE English Language. Content follows the GCSE (9-1) subject content for England (Edexcel and AQA). Content references: Work through a full Paper 2 with two non-fiction texts and a transactional writing task under timed conditions (AO1 to AO6), Summarise points from a text in your own words, selecting the main ones (AO1, AO2), Analyse language and structure in a non-fiction text (AO2), Compare the attitudes and methods of two texts on one topic (AO3), Write a transactional piece (article, letter or speech) for a purpose and audience, with accurate sentences and proof-reading (AO5, AO6).
Exercise P Do you remember?
1
FWhat is a summary? Write the answer in one short phrase.
the main points in your own shorter words
Method. A summary keeps the main points in fewer words.
- Think about length. A summary is much shorter than the original.much shorter
- Write it as a phrase. The main points in your own shorter words make a summary.the main points in your own shorter words
- Write the answer. the main points in your own shorter words
Check. Summaries keep main points. ✓
2
FWhat is a linking word for comparison? Write one word.
similarly
Method. A comparison word shows likeness.
- Think about likeness. Similarly shows two things are alike.alike
- Name the word. Similarly is a comparison word.similarly
- Write the answer. similarly
Check. Similarly links likeness. ✓
3
FWhat is an emotive word? Write the answer in one short phrase.
a word chosen to stir feeling
Method. An emotive word causes a feeling in the reader.
- Think about feeling. Emotive words stir strong feelings.strong feelings
- Write it as a phrase. A word chosen to stir feeling is emotive.a word chosen to stir feeling
- Write the answer. a word chosen to stir feeling
Check. Emotive words stir feeling. ✓
4
FWhich mark ends a statement? Write the mark only.
.
Method. A full stop ends a statement.
- Think about a statement. A statement ends with a full stop.statement
- Name the mark. The full stop..
- Write the answer. .
Check. A full stop ends a statement. ✓
5
FWhat is the purpose of a travel article? Write one word: inform, persuade or entertain.
entertain
Method. A travel article describes a place to interest the reader.
- Think about the aim. It describes a place to interest and delight the reader.interest and delight
- Choose the word. Entertain fits best for a personal travel article.entertain
- Write the answer. entertain
Check. Travel writing delights. ✓
13.1
Timing and reading two texts
Video lesson: Timing and reading two textsComing soon
Context. Paper 2 gives you two non-fiction texts on one topic. Read Text F for its overall sense, then Text G. Then answer the questions. Question 4 compares the two, so keep notes on each writer's attitude as you read.
Text F: The bus to Sallow Cove (original travel article, four paragraphs)
1The bus to Sallow Cove leaves the market square at nine, and it is never full. I climbed aboard with a rucksack and a map I did not need, because the road follows the coast and the sea is always in view.
2Halfway along the cliffs, the driver stopped to let a flock of sheep cross the road. Nobody complained. The passengers simply watched the grey water below, and a man in the seat behind me began to hum a tune I half recognised.
3At the cove itself, the harbour is small and the boats are old. Fishermen mend their nets on the quay, and gulls wheel above the bins. It is not the grandest place in the country, but it has a calm that I found hard to leave.
4I would recommend the walk up Gorse Head for anyone with a day to spare. The path is steep and muddy in places, and the wind can be fierce. Yet the view from the top is worth every blister, and the cafe at the bottom serves the best scones I have eaten.
Text G: Who really benefits from the tourists? (original opinion article, four paragraphs)
1Every summer, the coaches arrive in Sallow Cove and the streets fill with visitors. Shops stay open late, and the car park is full by ten. Yet the people who live here are often the last to see any benefit.
2Many of the homes near the harbour are now holiday lets, and families who were born here can no longer afford to rent. The school has fewer children every year, and the older houses on the hill stand empty for most of the winter.
3Visitors spend money in the cafes and the gift shops, that is true. But most of the profit leaves the village, because the owners of the lets live hundreds of miles away. A tourist may admire the old boats, but the fishermen who once owned them now struggle to find a berth.
4The answer is not to close the cove to visitors. It is to make sure that the village keeps some of the money and some of its homes. Councils could limit new holiday lets, and they could fund housing for local workers. Otherwise, the cove will become a beautiful place that nobody lives in.
| Question | Marks | Suggested time (check board) |
|---|---|---|
| Q1 list four things from Text F | 4 | about 5 minutes |
| Q2 summarise the points about holiday lets from Text G | 8 | about 10 minutes |
| Q3 how the writer of Text F uses language and structure | 8 | about 12 minutes |
| Q4 compare the attitudes of the two writers | 16 | about 20 minutes |
| Q5 transactional writing (article, letter or speech) | 40 | about 45 minutes, plus planning and proof-reading |
Key ideas
- Read both texts once for the overall sense, noting the writer's attitude to Sallow Cove.
- Use the timing table to decide how long each question takes.
- Leave about five minutes at the end of Question 5 to proof-read.
Worked example 13.1.1
Which question is worth the most marks? Write the number.
Method. Look at the marks column of the timing table.
- Read the marks. Question 5 is worth 40 marks.40 marks
- Compare. Question 4 is 16 marks and the others are 4 and 8.16
- Give the number. The most marks are for Question 5.5
- Write the answer. 5
Check. Question 5 has most marks. ✓
Worked example 13.1.2
What should you note as you read both texts? Choose one: each writer's attitude to Sallow Cove, the length of each word or the colour of the paper.
Method. Test each choice against the text.
- Read what the question asks for. Decide what the sentence or the text needs.
- Test the choice. Question 4 needs the attitudes of both writers, so notes help.each writer's attitude to Sallow Cove fits
- Reject the other choices. Word length and paper colour are not part of the comparison.the length of each word and the colour of the paper do not fit
- Write the answer. each writer's attitude to Sallow Cove
Check. The choice fits the text. ✓
Worked example 13.1.3
How many paragraphs does Text G have? Write the number.
Method. Count the paragraphs in Text G.
- Count. Text G has four numbered paragraphs.four paragraphs
- Give the number. Text G has four paragraphs.4
- Write the answer. 4
Check. Four paragraphs in Text G. ✓
Exercise 13A Practice: timing and two texts
1
FHow many marks is Question 2 worth? Write the number.
8
Method. Read the table.
- Find the row. Question 2 is worth 8 marks.8
- Give the number. Question 2 is 8 marks.8
- Write the answer. 8
Check. Eight marks. ✓
2
FWhich text is written as a travel article? Write F or G.
F
Method. Think about the content.
- Think about the content. Text F describes a bus journey and a walk.bus journey
- Choose. Text F is the travel article.F
- Write the answer. F
Check. F is travel writing. ✓
3
PSWhich text is an opinion article? Write F or G.
G
Method. Look for a writer's argument.
- Look for the argument. Text G argues that the village must keep money and homes.The answer is not to close the cove
- Choose. G is the opinion article.G
- Write the answer. G
Check. G argues a view. ✓
4
PSHow many marks is Question 4 worth? Write the number.
16
Method. Read the table.
- Find the row. Question 4 is 16 marks.16
- Give the number. The comparison is 16 marks.16
- Write the answer. 16
Check. Sixteen marks. ✓
5
PSWhich question is about comparing two texts? Write the question number.
4
Method. Read the table.
- Find the comparison. Question 4 compares the two writers.compare
- Give the number. The comparison is Question 4.4
- Write the answer. 4
Check. Question 4 compares. ✓
6
RGive one reason why you should keep notes on each writer while you read. One sentence.
Accept any answer that explains that notes provide evidence from both texts for the comparison. For example: Notes help me compare the attitudes in Question 4, because I will have evidence from both texts.
Method. Think about what Question 4 needs.
- Think about the comparison. Question 4 needs both writers.both writers
- Explain the notes. Notes give evidence from each text.evidence
- Write the answer. Notes help me compare the attitudes in Question 4, because I will have evidence from both texts.
Check. Notes give comparison evidence. ✓
7
PSWhich paragraph of Text G is the conclusion? Write the number.
4
Method. Find the closing paragraph.
- Find the close. The last paragraph gives the solution.The answer is not to close the cove
- Give the number. The conclusion is paragraph 4.4
- Write the answer. 4
Check. Paragraph 4 is the conclusion. ✓
13.2
Questions 1 and 2: retrieval and summary
Video lesson: Questions 1 and 2: retrieval and summaryComing soon
Context. Question 1 (4 marks): list four things from Text F. Question 2 (8 marks): Summarise the points that Text G makes about the effect of holiday lets, using your own words. Select the main points, combine them, and avoid copying.
Key ideas
- Question 1: four different, correct details, each from Text F.
- Question 2: the main points, in your own words, combined in clear sentences.
- Avoid long copied phrases in a summary; use your own words.
Worked example 13.2.1
Question 1: Give one thing the writer sees at the harbour. Quote the words.
Method. Find the harbour paragraph in Text F.
- Find the harbour. Paragraph 3 describes the harbour.the harbour is small and the boats are old
- Choose one detail. The boats are old is a clear detail.the boats are old
- Give the detail. The writer sees old boats.the boats are old
- Write the answer. the boats are old
Check. The detail is quoted exactly. ✓
Worked example 13.2.2
Question 2: Summarise, in one sentence, the main point of paragraph 2 of Text G.
Method. Find the main point and rewrite it.
- Find the main point. Holiday lets make homes unaffordable for local families.families who were born here can no longer afford to rent
- Rewrite in your own words. Use different words that keep the meaning.pushing local families out
- Write one sentence. The point is holiday lets pushing families out.Holiday lets are pushing local families out of their homes.
- Write the answer. Holiday lets are pushing local families out of their homes.
Check. The summary keeps the point. ✓
Worked example 13.2.3
Which is the best summary of paragraph 3 of Text G? Choose one: Visitors spend money locally, but most profit leaves the village., The boats are old. or Visitors are rude..
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 gives the main point that money is spent, but it leaves the village.Visitors spend money locally, but most profit leaves the village. fits
- Reject the other choices. The boats are old is a detail, and visitors being rude is not in the paragraph.The boats are old. and Visitors are rude. do not fit
- Write the answer. Visitors spend money locally, but most profit leaves the village.
Check. The choice fits the text. ✓
Exercise 13B Practice: Questions 1 and 2
1
FQuestion 1 (4 marks): Give four things the writer of Text F says or sees on the bus journey and at the cove.
Accept any answer that gives four different, correct details from Text F, such as the bus at nine, the coast road, the sheep, the harbour, the nets or the gulls. For example: the bus leaves the market square at nine; the road follows the coast; a flock of sheep crosses the road; the harbour is small.
Method. Find four different details from paragraphs 1 to 3.
- Detail one. The bus leaves at nine.at nine
- Detail two. The road follows the coast.follows the coast
- Detail three. A flock of sheep crosses the road.flock of sheep
- Detail four. The harbour is small.small
- Write the answer. the bus leaves the market square at nine; the road follows the coast; a flock of sheep crosses the road; the harbour is small.
Check. Four correct details. ✓
2
PSQuestion 2 (8 marks): Summarise the points Text G makes about who benefits from the tourists. Use your own words.
Accept any answer that summarises the main points of Text G, such as money spent but profit leaving, and families priced out of homes, in new words. For example: Visitors bring money to the cafes and shops, but most of the profit leaves the village and local families cannot afford homes.
Method. Select two or three main points and combine them.
- Point one. Visitors spend money locally.Visitors spend money in the cafes
- Point two. Most profit leaves the village.most of the profit leaves the village
- Point three. Local families cannot afford to rent.can no longer afford to rent
- Combine. One sentence joins the three points.combined
- Write the answer. Visitors bring money to the cafes and shops, but most of the profit leaves the village and local families cannot afford homes.
Check. The summary combines the main points. ✓
3
FQuestion 1 (1 mark): Which animal crosses the road in Text F? Write one word.
sheep
Method. Find the animal.
- Find the animal. A flock of sheep crosses the road.flock of sheep
- Name it. The animal is sheep.sheep
- Write the answer. sheep
Check. Sheep cross the road. ✓
4
PSQuestion 2 (summary): Which phrase in Text G describes the holiday lets in the village? Copy the phrase.
Many of the homes near the harbour are now holiday lets
Method. Find the sentence about the lets.
- Find the sentence. The sentence about homes and lets is in paragraph 2.homes near the harbour
- Copy it. Copy the phrase exactly.Many of the homes near the harbour are now holiday lets
- Write the answer. Many of the homes near the harbour are now holiday lets
Check. The phrase is copied exactly. ✓
5
FQuestion 1: In which paragraph does the writer describe the nets? Write the number.
3
Method. Find the nets.
- Find the nets. Fishermen mend their nets on the quay in paragraph 3.Fishermen mend their nets
- Give the number. The nets are in paragraph 3.3
- Write the answer. 3
Check. Paragraph 3 mentions the nets. ✓
6
PSQuestion 2: Write one sentence that summarises the writer's view of the holiday lets in paragraph 2, in your own words.
Accept any answer that summarises paragraph 2 in new words, such as the lets make homes unaffordable for local families. For example: The holiday lets have made the village expensive for the families who live there.
Method. Keep the main point, drop the detail about the school.
- Main point. The lets push out local families.families
- Own words. The point is restated in new words.new words
- Write the answer. The holiday lets have made the village expensive for the families who live there.
Check. The summary is in new words. ✓
7
PSQuestion 1: Which colour describes the water in paragraph 2 of Text F? Write one word.
grey
Method. Find the colour word.
- Find the colour. The water is grey in paragraph 2.grey water
- Give the word. The colour word is grey.grey
- Write the answer. grey
Check. Grey describes the water. ✓
8
RQuestion 2: Which paragraph of Text G mentions the school? Write the number.
2
Method. Find the school.
- Find the school. The school is mentioned in paragraph 2.The school has fewer children
- Give the number. The school is in paragraph 2.2
- Write the answer. 2
Check. Paragraph 2 mentions the school. ✓
9
PSQuestion 2: Summarise the writer's final suggestion in one sentence, in your own words.
Accept any answer that summarises the final suggestion in new words, such as limit the lets and fund housing for locals. For example: Councils should limit new holiday lets and fund housing for local workers, so the village keeps its people.
Method. Find the suggestion and rewrite it.
- Suggestion. Councils could limit the lets.limit new holiday lets
- Second suggestion. They could fund housing for workers.fund housing for local workers
- Write the answer. Councils should limit new holiday lets and fund housing for local workers, so the village keeps its people.
Check. Both suggestions are summarised. ✓
13.3
Question 3: language and structure of Text F
Video lesson: Question 3: language and structure of Text FComing soon
Context. Question 3 (8 marks): How does the writer of Text F use language and structure to show the appeal of Sallow Cove? Look for the travel journey (wide to close), sensory detail, personal opinion, and the closing recommendation.
Key ideas
- Structure: the journey moves from the bus, to the cliffs, to the harbour, to the walk.
- Language: sensory words (grey water, gulls wheel, the best scones).
- Personal voice: I would recommend, I found hard to leave.
Worked example 13.3.1
Which technique is "the best scones I have eaten"? Write one word: simile, superlative or metaphor.
Method. Look for the form of the adjective.
- Find the form. Best is the superlative form of good.best
- Name the technique. A superlative compares to the most.superlative
- Give the word. The technique is a superlative.superlative
- Write the answer. superlative
Check. Best is superlative. ✓
Worked example 13.3.2
Explain the effect of "a calm that I found hard to leave". Give one effect.
Method. Think about what the phrase suggests.
- Find the phrase. The phrase describes a calm that stays with the writer.a calm that I found hard to leave
- Explain the effect. It suggests peace that lingers and makes leaving difficult.lingers
- Give the effect. The writer conveys a lasting feeling of peace.the writer conveys a lasting feeling of peace
- Write the answer. the writer conveys a lasting feeling of peace
Check. The effect is linked to the phrase. ✓
Worked example 13.3.3
Identify the structure of Text F by naming how paragraph 4 differs from paragraph 1. Give one difference.
Method. Compare the purpose of the paragraphs.
- Paragraph 1. Paragraph 1 describes the journey.The bus to Sallow Cove leaves
- Paragraph 4. Paragraph 4 recommends the walk.I would recommend
- Give the difference. Paragraph 4 gives a personal recommendation, unlike the description in paragraph 1.paragraph 4 gives a personal recommendation
- Write the answer. paragraph 4 gives a personal recommendation
Check. The structure differs by purpose. ✓
Exercise 13C Practice: language and structure
1
PSQuestion 3 (8 marks): How does the writer use language and structure to show the appeal of Sallow Cove? Write one paragraph.
Accept any answer that names the structure (journey, harbour, recommendation), at least one language feature with a quotation, and the effect on the reader. For example: The writer moves from the bus to the harbour and the walk, using sensory words such as grey water and gulls, and a personal recommendation that makes the reader want to visit.
Method. Name the structure, then the language, then the effect.
- Structure. The text moves from the bus to the walk.bus
- Language. Grey water and gulls are sensory details.grey water
- Effect. The recommendation makes the reader want to visit.want to visit
- Write the answer. The writer moves from the bus to the harbour and the walk, using sensory words such as grey water and gulls, and a personal recommendation that makes the reader want to visit.
Check. Structure, language and effect are present. ✓
2
PSWhich sense do "gulls wheel above the bins" mainly appeal to? Write one word: sight, smell or touch.
sight
Method. Look at what the image shows.
- Look at the image. Gulls wheeling is something you see.see
- Choose. The image is mainly visual.sight
- Write the answer. sight
Check. The image is visual. ✓
3
RWhat is the effect of the phrase "the sea is always in view"? Write one word: reassurance, danger or boredom.
reassurance
Method. Think about what the sea gives the traveller.
- Think about the sea. The sea is always visible, which comforts the traveller.comfort
- Choose. The effect is reassurance.reassurance
- Write the answer. reassurance
Check. The sea reassures the traveller. ✓
4
FWhich paragraph of Text F describes the walk? Write the number.
4
Method. Find the walk.
- Find the walk. The walk up Gorse Head is in paragraph 4.the walk up Gorse Head
- Give the number. The walk is in paragraph 4.4
- Write the answer. 4
Check. Paragraph 4 describes the walk. ✓
5
RWhich technique is "a flock of sheep cross the road"? Write one word: alliteration, personification or description.
description
Method. Think about whether it is a comparison.
- Check for comparison. There is no like or as.no comparison
- Name it. It is a plain description of the scene.description
- Write the answer. description
Check. It describes the scene directly. ✓
6
PSWhat does the phrase "worth every blister" show about the writer? Write one word: pride, sadness or anger.
pride
Method. Think about the attitude.
- Think about the attitude. Worth every blister shows the walk was rewarding.rewarding
- Choose. The attitude is pride in the achievement.pride
- Write the answer. pride
Check. The writer is proud of the walk. ✓
7
RExplain how the writer uses the phrase "Yet the view from the top is worth every blister" to balance the hardship with the reward. One sentence.
Accept any answer that explains that yet balances the hard path with the rewarding view. For example: The word yet introduces the reward after the difficulty, so the writer shows the walk is hard but worth it.
Method. Look at the contrast in the sentence.
- Contrast. The path is steep, and yet the view is worth it.steep
- Effect. The balance makes the recommendation convincing.convincing
- Write the answer. The word yet introduces the reward after the difficulty, so the writer shows the walk is hard but worth it.
Check. The balance is explained. ✓
8
PSWhich word in paragraph 4 signals the reward after the difficulty? Write one word: yet or steep.
Yet
Method. Find the contrast word.
- Find the contrast. Yet introduces the reward.Yet the view
- Choose. Yet is the signal of contrast.Yet
- Write the answer. Yet
Check. Yet signals the contrast. ✓
9
RExplain the effect of the personal pronoun I in Text F. One sentence.
Accept any answer that explains that I makes the writing personal and gives the reader the writer's own experience. For example: The pronoun I makes the account personal and trustworthy, so the reader sees the cove through the writer's own experience.
Method. Think about the reader and the viewpoint.
- Personal. I makes it personal.personal
- Effect. The reader trusts the experience.trusts
- Write the answer. The pronoun I makes the account personal and trustworthy, so the reader sees the cove through the writer's own experience.
Check. The personal voice gives trust. ✓
13.4
Question 4: comparing attitudes (16 marks)
Video lesson: Question 4: comparing attitudes (16 marks)Coming soon
Context. Question 4 (16 marks): Compare how the writers convey their attitudes to Sallow Cove. Use evidence from both texts. Text F is positive about the place; Text G is critical about its effect on local people. Compare attitudes and methods, not just opinions.
Key ideas
- Name each writer's attitude, then the method they use to convey it.
- Use linking words: whereas, similarly, in contrast, while.
- Quote or name a detail from each text as evidence.
Worked example 13.4.1
Which writer is more positive about the cove? Write F or G.
Method. Find the positive language.
- Read Text F. Text F says it has a calm that is hard to leave.a calm that I found hard to leave
- Read Text G. Text G says the people are the last to see any benefit.the last to see any benefit
- Choose. Text F is more positive.F
- Write the answer. F
Check. F is positive. ✓
Worked example 13.4.2
Which linking word best compares the two attitudes? Choose one: whereas, after or because.
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 joins a positive view and a critical view, showing contrast.whereas fits
- Reject the other choices. After shows time, and because shows cause, not a comparison.after and because do not fit
- Write the answer. whereas
Check. The choice fits the text. ✓
Worked example 13.4.3
Compare the methods: how does Text G convey its view? Give one method.
Method. Look at how the argument is built.
- Find the method. Text G uses contrast, such as yet, and a final proposal.Yet the people
- Name the method. The writer argues with contrast and a proposal.proposal
- Give the method. The method is persuasion through contrast and a proposal.it uses statistics-free persuasion such as rhetorical contrast and a call to action
- Write the answer. it uses statistics-free persuasion such as rhetorical contrast and a call to action
Check. The method is named. ✓
Exercise 13D Practice: comparing attitudes
1
PSCompare the attitudes of the two writers towards visitors. Use a linking word and evidence from both texts. Write two sentences.
Accept any answer that compares the attitudes of F and G with a linking word, and quotes or names evidence from both texts. For example: Text F welcomes visitors and praises the cove, whereas Text G welcomes visitors only in part, because the profit leaves the village.
Method. Name each attitude, join them with a link, and add evidence.
- Text F. F praises the cove and recommends the walk.I would recommend
- Text G. G says most profit leaves the village.most of the profit leaves the village
- Link. Whereas shows the contrast.whereas
- Write the answer. Text F welcomes visitors and praises the cove, whereas Text G welcomes visitors only in part, because the profit leaves the village.
Check. Both attitudes are compared with evidence. ✓
2
FWhich writer uses the phrase "a calm that I found hard to leave"? Write F or G.
F
Method. Find the phrase.
- Find the phrase. The phrase is in Text F.calm
- Choose. The phrase is in F.F
- Write the answer. F
Check. The phrase is in F. ✓
3
FWhich writer describes profit leaving the village? Write F or G.
G
Method. Find the phrase.
- Find the phrase. Text G says most profit leaves the village.most of the profit leaves the village
- Choose. The phrase is in G.G
- Write the answer. G
Check. The phrase is in G. ✓
4
RGive one method Text F uses to convey positive attitudes. One sentence.
Accept any answer that names a method such as sensory detail, personal experience or a recommendation, with evidence. For example: Text F uses sensory detail and a personal recommendation, such as the best scones I have eaten.
Method. Name the method and quote one example.
- Method. Sensory detail and personal experience.sensory
- Example. The best scones I have eaten.the best scones I have eaten
- Write the answer. Text F uses sensory detail and a personal recommendation, such as the best scones I have eaten.
Check. The method is named with an example. ✓
5
RWhich writer ends with a proposal for the council? Write F or G.
G
Method. Look at the final paragraph.
- Look at the end. Text G suggests that councils could limit new lets.Councils could limit new holiday lets
- Choose. G ends with a proposal.G
- Write the answer. G
Check. G ends with a proposal. ✓
6
PSCompare how the two writers use the word "fill" or "full". Write one sentence with a linking word.
Accept any answer that compares the use of crowding or the sea imagery across the two texts with a linking word. For example: Text G uses full to show a crowded, costly cove, whereas Text F uses the sea to show a calm, open place.
Method. Name each use, then link them.
- Text G. G says the car park is full.full by ten
- Text F. F describes the sea always in view.always in view
- Link. Whereas shows the contrast.whereas
- Write the answer. Text G uses full to show a crowded, costly cove, whereas Text F uses the sea to show a calm, open place.
Check. The comparison uses evidence and a link. ✓
7
PSWhich phrase shows the writer of Text G's concern for local families? Copy the phrase.
can no longer afford to rent
Method. Find the concern.
- Find the concern. The families cannot afford to rent.afford to rent
- Copy it. Copy the words exactly.can no longer afford to rent
- Write the answer. can no longer afford to rent
Check. The concern is quoted. ✓
8
RExplain one similarity between the two writers' views. One sentence.
Accept any answer that explains a shared view, such as that visitors matter, with a link to both texts. For example: Both writers accept that visitors matter to the cove, although Text G says this benefit is unequal.
Method. Find a view the two writers share.
- Shared. Both accept visitors matter.visitors
- Link. G adds that the benefit is unequal.unequal
- Write the answer. Both writers accept that visitors matter to the cove, although Text G says this benefit is unequal.
Check. A shared view is explained. ✓
9
PSWrite a comparison paragraph opening, one sentence, that states the main difference in attitude.
Accept any answer that states a clear difference in attitude with a linking word such as whereas. For example: Text F is positive about Sallow Cove, whereas Text G is critical of how tourism affects the people who live there.
Method. Make one point of difference in one sentence.
- Difference. F is positive.positive
- Contrast. G is critical of the effect on people.critical
- Write the answer. Text F is positive about Sallow Cove, whereas Text G is critical of how tourism affects the people who live there.
Check. The difference is stated clearly. ✓
10
RWhich linking word is best for showing a difference between two writers? Write one word: similarly or whereas.
whereas
Method. Think about contrast.
- Think about contrast. Whereas shows a difference.difference
- Choose. Whereas is the contrast word.whereas
- Write the answer. whereas
Check. Whereas shows difference. ✓
13.5
Question 5: transactional writing (40 marks) and self-marking
Video lesson: Question 5: transactional writing (40 marks) and self-markingComing soon
Context. Question 5 (40 marks, check board): Write an article for a local magazine about whether visitors should be welcomed to Sallow Cove. Choose a clear view, use the two texts to support your thinking, include a quotation or fact, and proof-read at the end. Mark your own work against what a good answer includes.
Key ideas
- Plan the form (article), audience (local readers) and purpose (to persuade or discuss).
- Use a headline, a subheading, short paragraphs and one quotation with the speaker named.
- Give a clear view, a counter-argument, and an ending that gives a final image or call.
Worked example 13.5.1
Which form does Question 5 ask for? Write one word.
Method. Read the task.
- Read the task. The task asks for an article for a local magazine.article
- Name the form. The form is an article.article
- Write the answer. article
Check. The form is named. ✓
Worked example 13.5.2
Which headline is best for the article? Choose one: Should visitors be welcome in Sallow Cove?, Sallow Cove or A lovely day out.
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 states the issue as a question, which grabs the reader.Should visitors be welcome in Sallow Cove? fits
- Reject the other choices. Sallow Cove gives no issue, and a lovely day out is not about the question.Sallow Cove and A lovely day out do not fit
- Write the answer. Should visitors be welcome in Sallow Cove?
Check. The choice fits the text. ✓
Worked example 13.5.3
Give one feature of the article that suits a local readership. One feature.
Method. Think about who reads a local magazine.
- Think about readers. Local readers want to see their own village.their own village
- Choose the feature. A headline and a local reference connect with them.local reference
- Give the feature. A headline and a local reference suit the readers.a headline and a local reference
- Write the answer. a headline and a local reference
Check. Local readers are addressed. ✓
Exercise 13E Practice: transactional writing and self-marking
1
RWhat is the purpose of the article in Question 5? Write one word: persuade, inform or entertain.
persuade
Method. Think about the task.
- Think about the task. The article asks readers to think about whether visitors should be welcomed.should visitors
- Choose. The aim is to persuade or discuss.persuade
- Write the answer. persuade
Check. The article aims to persuade. ✓
2
FWho is the audience of the article in Question 5? Write one phrase: local readers or scientists.
local readers
Method. Think about the magazine.
- Think about the magazine. A local magazine is read by local people.local magazine
- Choose. The audience is local readers.local readers
- Write the answer. local readers
Check. Local readers are the audience. ✓
3
PSWrite a headline for the article in Question 5. One line.
Accept any answer that writes a headline that states the issue of visitors and the cove. For example: Should visitors be welcome in Sallow Cove?
Method. State the issue as a question or a claim.
- Issue. Visitors and the cove.visitors
- Form. A question grabs the reader.question
- Write the answer. Should visitors be welcome in Sallow Cove?
Check. The headline states the issue. ✓
4
RWhich of these is the best ending for the article? Write A or B. A: "The end." B: "The cove can welcome visitors and still keep its homes for its people."
B
Method. A good ending gives a clear view and a final image or call.
- Check A. The end gives no view.no view
- Check B. B gives a balanced final view.balanced
- Write the answer. B
Check. B gives a clear view. ✓
5
PSWrite one sentence that could be a quotation from a local fisherman in the article, with the speaker named.
Accept any answer that uses speech marks, an exact quotation and names the speaker. For example: "We used to sell our catch on the quay," said Dan Price, "now we have to sell our boat."
Method. Use speech marks and name the speaker.
- Speech marks. The words are in speech marks.speech marks
- Name. The speaker is named.Dan Price
- Write the answer. "We used to sell our catch on the quay," said Dan Price, "now we have to sell our boat."
Check. The quotation is set out correctly. ✓
6
RWhich feature of self-marking helps most? Write one word: checklist or guess.
checklist
Method. Think about how to mark your own paper.
- Think about marking. A checklist shows which elements are present.elements
- Choose. A checklist is the best tool.checklist
- Write the answer. checklist
Check. A checklist helps self-marking. ✓
7
RName one thing a good Question 5 article includes that a weak one does not. One sentence.
Accept any answer that names a feature such as a clear view with reasons, a quotation or a balanced conclusion, with a contrast to a weak article. For example: A good article uses a clear view with reasons and a quotation, whereas a weak one repeats opinions without evidence.
Method. Compare a strong feature with a weak one.
- Strong. A clear view with reasons.reasons
- Weak. Opinions without evidence.without evidence
- Write the answer. A good article uses a clear view with reasons and a quotation, whereas a weak one repeats opinions without evidence.
Check. The feature is named with a contrast. ✓
8
FWhich writer mentions a school? Write F or G.
G
Method. Search both texts for the word school.
- Search Text F. Text F does not mention a school.no school
- Search Text G. Text G says the school has fewer children every year.The school has fewer children
- Write the answer. G
Check. Only G mentions a school. ✓
9
RWhat should you do with the last five minutes of Question 5? Write one word: proof-read or plan.
proof-read
Method. Think about accuracy.
- Think about accuracy. Checking finds spelling and punctuation errors.errors
- Choose. Proof-reading is the best step.proof-read
- Write the answer. proof-read
Check. Proof-reading protects accuracy. ✓
10
PSWrite one next step after marking your Paper 2. One sentence.
Accept any answer that names one specific next step for the weakest question, with a clear action. For example: I will practise comparing two texts with linking words, because I lost marks in Question 4.
Method. Name the weakest part and the action.
- Weakest. Question 4 lost marks.Question 4
- Action. Practise linking words in a comparison.linking words
- Write the answer. I will practise comparing two texts with linking words, because I lost marks in Question 4.
Check. The next step is specific. ✓
Chapter summary
| Skill | Method |
|---|---|
| Timing and two texts | Read both for overall sense, note each writer's attitude, and use the timing table |
| Question 1 (4 marks) | Four different, correct details, quoted or named exactly from the text |
| Question 2 (8 marks) | The main points from the named part of the text, combined in your own words |
| Question 3 (8 marks) | Structure (journey, recommendation) and language (sensory, personal voice) with effects |
| Question 4 (16 marks) | Attitudes and methods of both writers, linked with whereas or similarly, with evidence |
| Question 5 (40 marks) | Form, audience and purpose first; headline, quotation, a clear view and proof-reading |
Can you…?
- I can list four correct details from a non-fiction text
- I can summarise the main points of a part of a text in my own words
- I can explain how a non-fiction writer uses language and structure
- I can compare two writers' attitudes and methods with linking words and evidence
- I can write a transactional article, letter or speech for a purpose and audience
- I can mark my own paper and set a next step
Key terms
- summary
- the main points of a text, in your own words, in fewer words
- superlative
- the form of an adjective that compares to the most, such as best
- contrast
- a difference shown by a word such as yet or whereas
- transactional writing
- writing for a real purpose, such as an article, letter or speech
- audience
- the readers or listeners the writing is aimed at
- marking guide
- the criteria that show what a good answer includes
Exercise 13Z Check-up
1
How many marks is Question 4 worth? Write the number.
16
Method. Read the timing table.
- Find the row. Question 4 is worth 16 marks.16
- Give the number. Question 4 is 16 marks.16
- Write the answer. 16
Check. Sixteen marks. ✓
2
Which text is an opinion article? Write F or G.
G
Method. Look for an argument.
- Look for an argument. Text G argues for a change.argues
- Choose. G is the opinion article.G
- Write the answer. G
Check. G argues. ✓
3
Give the number of the paragraph in Text F that describes the bus. Write the number.
1
Method. Find the bus.
- Find the bus. The bus leaves the market square in paragraph 1.The bus to Sallow Cove leaves
- Give the number. The bus is in paragraph 1.1
- Write the answer. 1
Check. Paragraph 1 has the bus. ✓
4
Copy the phrase in Text F that shows the walk was hard but rewarding.
worth every blister
Method. Find the phrase about reward.
- Find the phrase. The phrase is in paragraph 4.worth every blister
- Copy it. Copy the phrase exactly.worth every blister
- Write the answer. worth every blister
Check. The phrase is exact. ✓
5
Which phrase in Text G shows that the profit leaves the village? Copy the words.
most of the profit leaves the village
Method. Find the profit sentence.
- Find the sentence. The profit sentence is in paragraph 3.most of the profit leaves the village
- Copy it. Copy the words exactly.most of the profit leaves the village
- Write the answer. most of the profit leaves the village
Check. Copied exactly. ✓
6
Which technique is "the best scones I have eaten"? Write one word.
superlative
Method. Look for best.
- Find the form. Best is a superlative.best
- Name it. A superlative compares to the most.superlative
- Write the answer. superlative
Check. Best is superlative. ✓
7
Which linking word is best for showing a difference between two writers? Write one word.
whereas
Method. Think about contrast.
- Think about contrast. Whereas shows difference.difference
- Choose. Whereas is the word.whereas
- Write the answer. whereas
Check. Whereas shows difference. ✓
8
Summarise the writer's final suggestion in Text G in one sentence, in your own words.
Accept any one-sentence summary that says councils should limit new holiday lets and fund local housing. For example: Councils should limit new lets and fund homes for local workers.
Method. Find the suggestion and rewrite it.
- Suggestion. Councils could limit new lets.limit new holiday lets
- Second. They could fund housing.fund housing
- Write the answer. Councils should limit new lets and fund homes for local workers.
Check. The summary is in new words. ✓
9
Compare the two writers' attitudes in one sentence, using a linking word.
Accept any sentence that compares a positive attitude in Text F with a critical attitude in Text G, with a linking word. For example: Text F is positive about the cove, whereas Text G is critical of its effect on local people.
Method. Name both attitudes and link them.
- Text F. F is positive.positive
- Text G. G is critical.critical
- Link. Whereas shows the contrast.whereas
- Write the answer. Text F is positive about the cove, whereas Text G is critical of its effect on local people.
Check. Both attitudes are linked. ✓
10
Give one feature of an article for a local magazine. One feature.
Accept any feature such as a headline, a subheading, short paragraphs, or a quotation with the speaker named. For example: a headline.
Method. Name one feature.
- Feature. A headline is a clear feature.headline
- Write the answer. a headline.
Check. The feature is named. ✓
Total 24 marks. Allow about 24 minutes.
Exercise 13X Exam-style questions
1
FText: "The path is steep and muddy in places." Give one word that describes the path. Write one word.[1 mark]
steep
Method. Find the adjective about the path.
- Find it. Steep describes the path.steep
- Copy it. The word is steep.steep
- Write the answer. steep
Check. Steep describes the path. ✓
2
RText: "I would recommend the walk up Gorse Head." What is the purpose of this sentence? Write one word: persuade or inform.[1 mark]
persuade
Method. Think about what recommending does.
- Think about the aim. A recommendation is trying to persuade the reader.recommendation
- Choose. The purpose is to persuade.persuade
- Write the answer. persuade
Check. A recommendation persuades. ✓
3
RText: "Nobody complained." Explain what this suggests about the passengers. Use your own words.[2 marks]
Accept any answer that says the passengers are patient, relaxed or content with the delay. For example: the passengers are patient and relaxed.
Method. Explain the attitude.
- Read. No complaint suggests patience.patience
- Explain. The passengers are relaxed.relaxed
- Write the answer. the passengers are patient and relaxed.
Check. The attitude is explained. ✓
4
RText: "families who were born here can no longer afford to rent." Explain the effect of this phrase on the reader. Use your own words.[3 marks]
Accept any answer that says the phrase shows local families being priced out, which makes the reader feel concern. For example: it shows families being priced out, which causes concern.
Method. Explain the phrase and its effect.
- The phrase. The families cannot afford to rent.cannot afford
- Effect. The reader feels concern.concern
- Write the answer. it shows families being priced out, which causes concern.
Check. The effect is explained. ✓
5
RText: "Yet the people who live here are often the last to see any benefit." Explain how the word "Yet" shapes the argument. Use your own words.[3 marks]
Accept any answer that says Yet introduces a contrast between the visitors' benefit and the locals' exclusion, which builds the writer's argument. For example: Yet shows the contrast between visitors and locals.
Method. Explain the contrast and the argument.
- Contrast. Yet introduces the reverse of the crowd.reverse
- Argument. It builds the argument that locals lose out.lose out
- Write the answer. Yet shows the contrast between visitors and locals.
Check. The contrast is explained. ✓
6
RText: "The answer is not to close the cove to visitors." Explain the effect of this sentence. Use your own words.[3 marks]
Accept any answer that says the sentence makes the writer seem fair and balanced, because it does not reject visitors, but proposes a middle way. For example: the writer seems fair, because the answer is a balance.
Method. Explain the effect of the sentence.
- Read. The sentence rejects closing the cove.not to close
- Effect. The writer seems fair and balanced.fair and balanced
- Write the answer. the writer seems fair, because the answer is a balance.
Check. The effect is explained. ✓
7
RText: "Councils could limit new holiday lets, and they could fund housing for local workers." Explain the writer's suggestion. Use your own words.[3 marks]
Accept any answer that says the writer suggests councils restrict the number of lets and build homes for local people, so the village keeps its residents. For example: councils should restrict lets and build homes for locals.
Method. Explain both suggestions.
- First. Councils restrict new lets.restrict
- Second. Councils fund homes for locals.homes for locals
- Write the answer. councils should restrict lets and build homes for locals.
Check. Both suggestions are explained. ✓
8
PSWrite a headline and a subheading for an article about a village that has a new holiday let policy. Give both.[3 marks]
Accept any headline that names the village and the policy, and any subheading that adds one detail. For example: Village votes for new lets rules / The council will limit holiday lets from next spring.
Method. Write a headline and a subheading.
- Headline. The headline names the village and the policy.Village votes
- Subheading. The subheading adds one detail.from next spring
- Write the answer. Village votes for new lets rules / The council will limit holiday lets from next spring.
Check. Headline and subheading are present. ✓
9
PSWrite one sentence that could open a letter to the council about holiday lets. Use a formal greeting.[3 marks]
Accept any formal greeting followed by a clear purpose sentence. For example: Dear Sir or Madam, I am writing to ask the council to limit new holiday lets.
Method. Write a formal greeting and purpose.
- Greeting. Dear Sir or Madam is formal.Dear Sir or Madam
- Purpose. I am writing to ask the council to limit lets.I am writing to ask
- Write the answer. Dear Sir or Madam, I am writing to ask the council to limit new holiday lets.
Check. The greeting and purpose are formal. ✓
10
FName one feature of a speech that would suit a public meeting about the cove. One feature.[2 marks]
Accept any feature such as direct address, a rhetorical question, a list of three, or a call to action. For example: a call to action.
Method. Name one speech feature.
- Feature. A call to action tells the audience what to do.call to action
- Write the answer. a call to action.
Check. The feature is named. ✓