Skip to main content

GCSE English Language Paper 2: Writers' Viewpoints and Perspectives

AQA GCSE English Language Paper 2 tests how well you read two non-fiction sources and how well you write to present a viewpoint. Section A is reading (40 marks); Section B is writing (40 marks). Open a question guide below, then practise with the AI marker.

1 hour 45 minutes · 80 marks

Sections

  • Section A — Reading

    Two non-fiction sources (often one 19th-century and one modern). Question 1 is short retrieval; Questions 2–4 cover summary, language and comparison (40 marks total).

  • Section B — Writing

    One transactional task (Question 5): article, letter, speech or essay presenting a viewpoint. 40 marks across AO5 and AO6.

Questions on this paper

QuestionMarksTimeGuide
Q2 — Summarise differences8~10 minsOpen guide
Q3 — Language analysis12~12 minsOpen guide
Q4 — Compare perspectives16~16 minsOpen guide
Q5 — Viewpoint writing40~45 minsOpen guide

Question 1 is short retrieval and is not part of this guide series.

Practise this question

Write your answer and get it marked against the AQA mark scheme in under a minute.

CTA copy TBC — plan §4.5 proposed wording

Mark Paper 2 Question 5

Frequently asked questions

How should I split my time on Paper 2?
Spend a few minutes reading both sources carefully, about 45 minutes on Section A (with most time on Question 4), and about 45 minutes on Question 5 including planning and proofreading.
Why are there two sources?
Paper 2 tests synthesis and comparison as well as language analysis. Questions 2 and 4 depend on using both texts; Question 3 usually focuses on one named source.
Is Question 1 in this series?
No. Question 1 is short true/false or retrieval-style work. These guides cover Questions 2–5.
Where should I practise viewpoint writing?
Start with the Paper 2 Question 5 guide, then use the practice call to action to open the marker with Paper 2 Question 5 pre-selected.

All Paper 2 guides