GCSE specification fit
This lesson compares what two non-fiction writers think and how they persuade.
Compare writers’ viewpoints, methods and purposes across non-fiction texts. It supports GCSE English Language, GCSE English Literature or both, depending on your course and exam board.
What you will learn
Why this matters
Comparison questions reward balanced thinking. You need to keep both texts in play rather than writing two separate mini-essays.
Prior knowledge
You should already be comfortable with:
Practice sources supplied on this page
Use the two lido sources to practise comparison: identify each writer’s viewpoint, then pair evidence that shows a clear similarity or contrast.
Source A: original article opening
Our town should protect the old lido because public spaces give people more than somewhere to swim. They hold memories, routines and chances for neighbours to meet. A new car park may be convenient, but convenience is a poor exchange for a place that has served generations.
Source B: original letter opening
I understand why some residents feel attached to the old lido, but sentiment cannot repair cracked tiles or pay rising maintenance costs. The site is unused for most of the year. A safer, modern facility would serve more people and cost less to maintain.
Clear explanation
Main idea
Start by deciding what each writer thinks or feels about the topic. Then find where they overlap and where they differ.
How to do it
Use comparative connectives such as similarly, whereas and however.
Exam habit
Compare ideas and methods: for example, one writer may use statistics while another uses personal anecdote.
Worked examples
Viewpoint comparison
Text A celebrates city life, whereas Text B presents it as stressful.
Method comparison
Both writers use direct address, but one uses it to encourage while the other uses it to criticise.
Quick checks
Choose an answer, then check your thinking.
1. Source A argues the town needs the lido; Source B worries about cost. What should the comparison do first?
2. Which connective creates a real comparison rather than two separate comments?
Practice questions
Question 1
State the core disagreement between the two lido sources.
Reveal answer and marking guidance
Answer: Source A values the lido as community memory; Source B sees it as an expensive burden.
Marking: Credit both viewpoints in one answer.
Question 2
Find one method each writer could use for persuasion.
Reveal answer and marking guidance
Answer: Source A could use emotive community language; Source B could use cost figures and practical objections.
Marking: Reward paired method comments.
Question 3
Write a comparison sentence beginning with “Whereas”.
Reveal answer and marking guidance
Answer: Whereas Source A presents the lido as a shared public good, Source B presents it as poor use of council money.
Marking: Credit clear contrast.
Question 4
What should you avoid in a comparison answer?
Reveal answer and marking guidance
Answer: Avoid writing a full paragraph on Source A and only briefly mentioning Source B.
Marking: Reward integrated comparison.
Answers and marking guidance
The exact practice answers are hidden under each question so you can try first. For non-fiction comparison, reward answers that put Source A and Source B into the same sentence, name each writer’s viewpoint on the lido, and explain how tone, evidence or form supports the disagreement about memory, cost and public space.
Common mistakes
- Writing about Source A then forgetting Source B: compare regularly.
- Comparing topic only: compare viewpoint, tone and method as well.
- Using vague connectives: however and similarly need precise paired ideas.
- Ignoring audience: letters and articles position readers differently.
Extension challenge
Write three linked comparison sentences about the two lido sources: one on viewpoint, one on tone and one on evidence.
Reveal answer
Example answer: A strong response pairs both writers each time: Source A values shared memory and community, while Source B prioritises cost, safety and practical use.
Exam-board guidance
Comparison tasks differ in mark value and source pairing, but all boards reward clear links between writers. Use paired evidence and explain how each writer shapes viewpoint.
AQA GCSE English
Check the mark value and assessment focus, then keep evidence and analysis tied to the exact question.
OCR GCSE English
Use precise references and organise the response around the command word rather than a memorised answer.
Pearson Edexcel GCSE English
Match the lesson skill to the relevant paper question, source, set text or writing form.
Eduqas GCSE English
Adapt the technique to the component your school is preparing for, especially timing and question wording.
WJEC Wales
Check whether your course uses current Wales-specific routes, then apply the same evidence and accuracy habits.
CCEA GCSE English
Use the unit focus to balance evidence, explanation, comparison, context and written accuracy.
Next lesson
Next, continue with Evaluating a Writer’s Choices.