How to write to argue & persuade - GCSE English Language Paper Two, Section B
Are you taking your GCSE English exam soon? Here is the low-down in everything you need to know about section B of the paper.
The writing section of the GCSE English Language Paper Two, Section B requires you to express a viewpoint. A written argument is very different from a verbal argument. It must include a formal, fair and well-structured approach that makes it clear to the reader that you have weighed out the pros and cons before coming to your own perspective.
Thus, it is integral to have a plan of action for your answer. It needs to be a coherent piece of writing, rather than chunks of good ideas, and requires a well thought out structure.
Structuring your essay
Clear opening: Immediately display which side of the argument you’re on. It’s important to clearly explain what the argument is about and your stance on it.
Zoom out: Provide wider context about the topic. Here’s your chance to show your research and give your essay additional detail through body paragraphs that present your debate through differing sides of the argument, linked to how your viewpoint is the best one to take. Inject your essay with passion and enthusiasm, and show you really do care about the topic and harness it to give your writing a unique spark.
A strong conclusion: Summarise the strongest point from each side of the argument, and conclude as to why you feel your own perspective is best, supported with evidence. End with confidence, and finish your answer with a powerful sentence related to your argument.
Linking paragraphs: Avoid using overused words and phrases like ‘furthermore’ for each paragraph and try not to list your arguments by using ‘Firstly.. Secondly.. Thirdly’. This makes your essay monotonous. Instead, vary the start of your paragraphs by using linking words such as ‘Similarly, Conversely, However, Additionally’
For more in-depth knowledge on how best to structure your academic essay, as well as more tips and tricks to nail each stage of the essay writing process, be sure to check out our course ‘How to write a killer essay’ on Udemy.
The secret toolkit
While planning your answer, be sure to include the following features into your writing:
Anecdotes: A brief account or a story, this could even be personal. An anecdote in an effective way to back up your viewpoint
Clusters of three: Three phrases or describing words to emphasize a point. This can create an impressive effect of emphasis on presenting your perspective. Eg: This made me feel upset, outraged and disappointed.
Contrast/ Counter argument: Present two opposing views, but in a way that subtly shows your viewpoint as the stronger view.
Emotive words and Imagery: Bring your essay to life and resonate with the examiner by using words that are deliberately designed to make the reader have strong positive or negative feelings by using positive emotive words such as ‘love’ and ‘happiness’, or negative emotive words like ‘illness’, or ‘poverty’ to illustrate your point. Additionally, imagery can create a mental picture or feeling in the reader’s mind and help understand your perspective.
Personal pronouns: Address the reader directly by using personal pronouns such as ‘you, ‘me’, or ‘I’. This can help the reader to connect with your essay and keep them engaged.
Rhetorical questions: This is also an effective method to engage with the reader by stating a question in a way that presents a point of view, that also helps break the monotony of your essay.
Evidence: Support your viewpoint with specific statistics, facts or quotations that can bring a level of authenticity and detailed research to your essay, allowing you to convince the reader with the support of evidence.
Watch this video for a complete, in-depth analysis of the GCSE English paper and specific tips and tricks to conquer the exam, and write an effective essay, drawing insight from all the features discussed above.
Once you’re prepared, a final revision is also important to test your skills, give yourself practice, and shine a spotlight on errors you’d like to avoid, specific tips you’d like to remember during the exam and judge your own performance. We recommend using this GCSE English Language Paper 2 Revision booklet., to ensure that you’re incorporating all the important tips into your final answer.
These are our top tips for anyone attempting to take the GCSE English Exam. But, in addition to this, it is also to check your work in order to make corrections and improvements as whilst keeping an eye on spelling, punctuation and grammar.
We wish you the best of luck!