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- Paper 2 Question 6: evaluating non-fiction
Paper 2 Question 6: evaluating non-fiction
Question 6 asks you to evaluate how successfully the writer of Text 2 achieves something, for example sharing memories, persuading or presenting a place. It is worth 15 marks.
Same skill, new text
Like Paper 1 Question 4, this is AO4: evaluate texts critically.
It is about how well, not just how. Pearson's examiners note that references to techniques should only be credited at Level 2 and above if they support the critical judgement.
Use the whole of Text 2 unless the question narrows it.
It is about how well, not just how. Pearson's examiners note that references to techniques should only be credited at Level 2 and above if they support the critical judgement.
Use the whole of Text 2 unless the question narrows it.
Practice: Text 2
Imagine the question: 'In this extract, the writer attempts to show that seaside towns are recovering. Evaluate how successfully this is achieved.'
Judging non-fiction
Ask: Is it convincing? Is the evidence specific? Does the writer balance other views? Is the ending memorable?
You can make a mixed judgement: 'The writer is largely successful, although...'
You can make a mixed judgement: 'The writer is largely successful, although...'
How successful is the writer of Text 2 at showing that seaside towns are recovering?
- Judgement: largely successful.
- Specific evidence: the bingo hall now an arts centre, a weekend food market.
- Balance: admitting rents are rising makes the writer seem fair, so more believable.
- Ending: the crowds image is vivid but is not hard evidence.
Answer: Largely successful: specific examples and a fair mention of rising rents make it convincing, though the final image of crowds is more impression than proof.
Question 6: Text 2, AO4, 15 marks. Give clear judgements on how well the writer succeeds, support them with specific references, and consider balance, evidence and impact.
The interactive lesson includes the diagrams for this topic.
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