P2 Reading — AO1 (Paper 2, Section A)
Paper 2 is based on two non-fiction sources — one from the 19th century and one from the 20th/21st century. Section A reading tests AO1, AO2, and AO3. The AO1 question (usually Q1) asks you to identify, interpret, and synthesise across both sources.
Synthesis — the key Paper 2 skill
Synthesis means drawing together information from both sources in a single, integrated answer. It is more than listing facts from each source separately — you must actively connect them.
The AO1 synthesis question is usually 8 marks and looks like: "From both sources, what do you learn about X? Write a summary."
Or: "How are the writers' experiences of X similar or different?"
The synthesis method
Structure each synthesis point as: Source A says X. Similarly/However, Source B says Y.
Vary your connectives:
- Similarity: Similarly, Likewise, Both writers, In the same way...
- Difference: However, By contrast, While Source A..., On the other hand...
- Partial similarity: Although both... Source A goes further by... Source B limits this to...
What AO1 marks on Paper 2
| Level | Description |
|---|---|
| L4 (7–8) | Perceptive synthesis; clear, detailed differences/similarities; relevant quotation from both sources |
| L3 (5–6) | Clear synthesis; identifies differences/similarities; some relevant quotation |
| L2 (3–4) | Some synthesis; simple points; some quotation |
| L1 (1–2) | Simple retrieval; limited quotation; mostly one source |
⚠Common mistakes
- Writing about each source separately rather than synthesising.
- Using retrieval only — not commenting on similarities/differences.
- Quoting from only one source.
- Confusing AO1 (synthesis) with AO3 (comparing perspectives and methods).
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