The short version: Watch a full model comparative response come together: comparative thesis → three woven, evaluated comparative paragraphs → a conclusion that lands the comparison. The whole of Unit 3 in one model.
A finished strong comparison shows you the target — copy the shape, not the words.
We'll take two short original works and a general question and build the response the exam way: a comparative thesis, a by-point plan, woven paragraphs that analyse and compare choices, and a conclusion that pays the comparison off. Everything from 3.1–3.11, assembled.
The shape of a strong answer
Comparative thesis
One arguable claim about both works — the spine.
Woven paragraphs
Each covers both works on one shared point, with connectives.
Analyse AND compare choices
Technique → effect in each work, then the comparison (Criterion B).
Conclusion that lands it
Draw the comparison together; end on what it reveals.
The key move: A strong Paper 2 essay = comparative thesis → woven, evaluated comparative paragraphs → a conclusion with a payoff. Copy this shape onto your own works.
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Why it matters in the exam: This shape covers all four Paper 2 criteria (A, B, C, D) at once. A worked model shows how the parts fit into one strong comparison.
QUESTION: ‘Compare how the two works present courage.’ WORK A (poem): “The bravest thing my mother ever did / she did in a kitchen, at 6 a.m., / deciding, one more time, to stay.” WORK B (prose): “Everyone called Hollis brave for going over the top. Hollis knew the truth: going over was easy — a whistle, a body doing what bodies do in a crowd. The brave part was the letters home, night after night, telling boys' mothers a beautiful, necessary lie.”
Model answer plan
See the mark-by-mark plan — for / against / judgement, with marking guidance — in study mode.
Watch out: A model answer shows you the shape — don't memorise its wording. In the exam your works are your own; copy the method (thesis, weaving, evaluation, payoff), not the sentences.