Paper 2 (Reading): Assessment FocusCan’t fail Paper 2 reading comprehension if you don’t comprehend in the first place.Why it matters:The exam isn’t just about reading words. It tests if you can understand, interpret and respond, both the big picture and the fine details.What examiners look for1. Understanding gistSpot the main idea of the text.Ask: “What’s the overall point here?”TipRead the first and last sentences of paragraphs carefully, they often hold the gist.2. Understanding detailPick out facts (dates, statistics, names, reasons).TipSkim the question first so you know what detail to look for.3. InterpretationIdentify the writer’s tone (serious, humorous, critical).Work out their purpose (to persuade, inform, entertain).Exam techniqueLook for adjectives and adverbs, they often reveal attitude.4. InferenceRead between the lines.Use context to guess idioms, implied meanings, or hidden attitudes.TipIf something seems too obvious, check if there’s an implied meaning.5. Text type awarenessNotice how the format shapes meaning.Report = factual and formal; advert = persuasive and eye-catching.Exam techniqueAlways adapt your answer to fit the text type, not just the words.Active recallGist: Do I know the main idea of each text?Detail: Have I found key facts (dates, names, reasons)?Interpretation: Can I explain the writer’s tone and purpose?Inference: Did I catch anything implied or hidden in context?Text type: Do I recognize the format (report, advert, letter) and how it shapes meaning?If you can tick all five, you are hitting the exam focus.