Comparing and Evaluating Texts

Comparing two texts

Often one modern and one 19th-century. You compare writers' viewpoints and methods.

1. Identify each writer's attitude to the topic.

2. Find similarities and differences.

3. Compare the methods they use to convey it.

Comparison connectives

Similarly · likewise · both writers · whereas · in contrast · on the other hand · however.

Worked sentence

> "Whereas Writer A presents the sea as peaceful through gentle imagery ('calm', 'glassy'), Writer B uses violent verbs ('crashed', 'roared') to portray it as dangerous."

Evaluating a text

"To what extent do you agree…?" → give a critical, personal response:

1. State your view on the statement.

2. Support with examples and quotations.

3. Analyse how the writer creates that effect.

Exam tip

For comparison, link the two texts in the same sentence — never write about one fully and then the other. Always compare methods, not just content.