English Language - GCSE English Language Paper 2 (Contemporary Texts) June 2024

GCSE English Language
Edexcel
2024

How to Use This Paper Effectively

Get the most out of your practice session with these tips from experienced teachers

1

For comparison questions, discuss both texts in every paragraph — don't write about them separately.

2

In your writing task, use rhetorical devices: tricolon, rhetorical questions, direct address, anecdotes.

3

Match your tone and register to the task — a formal letter requires different language to a magazine article.

4

Time yourself strictly — many students run out of time on the writing section. Allocate time per question and stick to it.

5

Read the source texts carefully before attempting any questions. Underline key phrases as you read.

What’s on This Paper

Paper 2 covers Writers' Viewpoints and Perspectives. You will read two linked non-fiction texts (such as speeches, articles, letters, or essays) from different time periods and answer questions comparing them. The writing section requires you to produce a piece of non-fiction writing presenting a viewpoint — such as a letter, article, speech, or essay.

Question types you’ll encounter:

Information synthesis from two texts
Summary and comparison
Language analysis of non-fiction
Comparison of writers' viewpoints
Transactional writing (article, letter, speech, essay)

Paper Details

Basic Information

Paper Number:
Paper 2
Time Allowed:
105 minutes

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