Understanding Paper 2
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Flip to reveal answersHow many works in Paper 2?
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Question
How many works in Paper 2?
Answer
Two literary works you have studied.
Question
How many questions do you answer?
Answer
One, chosen from four general questions.
Question
Open or closed book?
Answer
Closed — no text; use detailed reference, not memorised quotes.
Question
How long / how many marks (SL & HL)?
Answer
1 hour 45 minutes, [25].
Question
The unique Paper 2 criterion?
Answer
B2 — comparison (comparing the works, not reviewing them in turn).
Question
The biggest Paper 2 mistake?
Answer
Two separate mini-essays instead of one woven comparison.
Question
How should paragraphs be organised?
Answer
By shared idea — each discusses BOTH works, not one then the other.
Question
Do you need quotations?
Answer
No — but you need precise, detailed reference to the works.
Question
How should you choose your two works?
Answer
So both fit the question AND differ interestingly.
Question
What is the goal of the essay?
Answer
One comparative argument about both works — similarities AND differences.
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Full study notes for Understanding Paper 2
Topic 4.1 hub
Understanding Paper 2
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English A Lang & Lit exam skills
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