How to Compare Texts Effectively in IB English Paper 2

✅ Understanding IB Paper 2

IB English Paper 2 is a comparative literary essay based on one question chosen from a set. You must compare at least two works studied during the course—SL or HL.
Here’s what matters most:

• Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Format: Comparative essay on themes, characters, or literary techniques
  👉 Check the official blueprint in Structuring Your IB English Paper 2 Essay(revisiondojo.com, revisiondojo.com)

🧠 Step 1: Planning Your Comparative Essay

Spend the first 5–10 minutes planning:

• Choose your works carefully—ideally with contrasting perspectives on the prompt.
• Define a focused thesis that responds directly to the question.
• Create a skeletal structure with balanced coverage for both texts.

👉 Learn how planning impacts your score in IB English Paper 2: Essential Guide for Success(revisiondojo.com)

🧩 Step 2: Introduction with Purpose

Your opening paragraph should:

1. Provide context and identify your chosen texts
2. Present a clear thesis statement outlining your comparative approach
3. Set up how you'll explore similarities and differences

👉 Templates available in How to Score a 7 in IB English Paper 2(revisiondojo.com, revisiondojo.com)

🧷 Step 3: Body Paragraphs – Balanced Comparative Analysis

Use 4–6 well-structured paragraphs that:

• Begin with clear topic sentences
• Follow with detailed analysis of each text (theme, technique)
• Include linking sentences using comparative language (“Similarly…”, “In contrast…”)
  👉 Sample guidance in Paper 2 Sample Responses & Essays(revisiondojo.com, revisiondojo.com, revisiondojo.com)

🎓 Step 4: Literature Techniques & Terminology

To stand out:

• Deploy literary terms such as imagery, symbolism, tone, and narrative voice
• Connect form and content—discuss how techniques shape meaning and theme
  👉 Tips from Effective Study Techniques for IB English A: Language and Literature(revisiondojo.com, revisiondojo.com)

📝 Step 5: Conclusions That Resonate

Your final paragraph should:

• Summarize your comparative points
• Restate the thesis with deeper insight
• Leaving a memorable reflection or broader implication

********• Avoid introducing new material; tie your discussion back to the question.

🌟 Top Tips for Excellence

• Use a comparative structure—avoid writing two separate essays
• Focus on a limited number of comparative points analyzed deeply
• Use transitions like “both…”, “whereas…”, “while…” for cohesion

👉 These strategies are explained in How to Score a 7 in IB English Paper 2(revisiondojo.com, revisiondojo.com, revisiondojo.com, revisiondojo.com)

🧾 Quick Reference Table

Element Purpose in Comparative Essay Plan First Organize arguments and quotations before writing Introduction Hook + context + precise thesis with exploratory direction Body Paragraphs Balanced analysis using topic sentences and comparative linking Literary Techniques Use terminology and analyze technique-function connections Conclusion Summarize, reinforce thesis, and deliver final evaluative insight

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How many texts should I compare?
You should compare at least two works from your course. More than two may dilute focus.

Q2: Should I alternate texts per paragraph?
Yes—for clarity and balance, discuss both texts within each comparative paragraph.

Q3: How do I avoid repetition?
Vary your phrasing and use comparative connectors to maintain flow and clarity.

Q4: How detailed should my quotes be?
Choose concise but effective quotations; then unpack their significance in depth.

Q5: Which paper is harder—Paper 1 or Paper 2?
It depends on your strengths: Paper 1 tests unseen analysis; Paper 2 demands deep knowledge and balanced comparison.(revisiondojo.com, revisiondojo.com, revisiondojo.com)

Q6: Where can I practice more example essays?
Visit Paper 2 Sample Papers and Exemplar Responses(revisiondojo.com)

🎯 Conclusion & RevisionDojo Call to Action

Comparative mastery in IB English Paper 2 requires structure, balanced analysis, and deep engagement with your texts. Choosing compelling texts, crafting a clear thesis, and using precise comparative language will elevate your essays.

👉 Explore [RevisionDojo’s IB English Paper 2 resources]—including structure guides, sample essays, and practice templates—to build confidence and write like a top scorer.