Compare arguments and perspectives in the written exam
Build a clear comparison from two supplied sources and reach a judgement that weighs their reasoning and evidence.
Section CONTEXT-09 · Optional global topic · Economics of food
Exam scope and assessment notes
This is original StudyForA teaching and fictional practice, not Cambridge text, an official question or an official mark scheme. The 2026–2028 syllabus calls the written exam Component 1; the 2029–2031 syllabus calls it Paper 1 and reports no significant teaching changes. Check the syllabus for the learner's exam year and follow teacher, centre and assessment-authenticity rules. StudyForA cannot authenticate assessed work, observe collaboration, award official marks or predict a grade.
Before you begin
- Identify whether the task concerns source analysis, essay writing, team assessment or the independent research report.
Work on paper. Try each question before revealing help, and explain why your method works.
Quick readiness check
What makes an answer to a two-source essay comparative?
What you will learn
- Compare source arguments and perspectives
- Evaluate relevant evidence and assumptions
- Communicate a supported and balanced judgement
For the 2026–2028 syllabus, Q3 is a 25-mark extended response
The written paper presents two source documents and three compulsory questions. Question 3 asks for an essay response based on both sources, focused on arguments and perspectives with a reasoned judgement. The 2029–2031 edition labels this Paper 1 and retains the same broad structure. Check the syllabus for the learner's exam year.
Organise by comparison
A paragraph can state a point of comparison, explain Source A's reasoning, contrast Source B and evaluate the evidence or assumption behind each. Finish by weighing which argument is better supported for the question and why. Do not write two unrelated source summaries.
Sources for this lesson
- Cambridge International AS & A Level Global Perspectives & Research 9239 syllabus · 2026–2028 Version 3
- Cambridge International AS & A Level Global Perspectives & Research 9239 syllabus update · 2026–2028
- Cambridge International AS & A Level Global Perspectives & Research 9239 syllabus · 2029–2031 Version 1
- Cambridge International 9239 subject page and exam-series notice
Pause and explain
What should a final judgement weigh?
Worked example
Source A argues that a city should charge for peak-hour car use to reduce congestion. Source B argues the charge would unfairly burden workers without reliable public transport. How should an answer compare them?
Show the worked solution
- Identify the outcome each source prioritises.
- Compare their evidence and assumptions about travel alternatives.
- Reach a judgement that weighs congestion reduction against access and distribution.
Answer Source A prioritises reducing congestion and assumes travellers can change time or mode; Source B prioritises fair access and points to workers without reliable alternatives. Compare traffic data with route availability and cost for affected groups. A charge may be justified where alternatives are usable, but exemptions or transport improvements may be needed where they are not. The judgement depends on evidence about both outcomes.
Try a topic test
Choose Easy, Normal or Difficult. Save your answers and open worked review after finishing.
Test this topic →From guided practice to a new situation
Write your answer and reasoning first. Use a hint only if you are stuck. The model solution is for self-checking; your written work is not automatically marked.
Source A supports a new cycle lane because it may reduce short car trips. Source B worries that delivery access will be lost. Plan two comparative paragraph points and one evidence need.
Give me a hint
Compare outcomes and evidence rather than listing separate advantages.
Compare my reasoning
- State the shared decision and the different priorities.
- Compare how each source supports its prediction.
- Name evidence needed to weigh travel and delivery effects.
One comparison can weigh Source A's predicted reduction in short car trips against Source B's concern about loading access, checking whether either source provides route or usage data. A second can compare who benefits or bears costs. Useful further evidence includes matched traffic counts, delivery observations and feedback from affected users. Neither source's prediction is established by its position alone.
Look for these in your work
- Organises by comparison
- Evaluates support for predictions
- Names evidence for both effects
Two sources support the same policy but for different reasons: one cites cost, the other fairness. Explain why agreement does not end the analysis.
Give me a hint
The reasoning and trade-offs may still differ.
Compare my reasoning
- Identify the shared conclusion.
- Compare the reasons and evidence supporting it.
- Check whether the reasons imply different conditions or consequences.
The sources agree on the conclusion but may rely on different assumptions and evidence. A cost argument may depend on a budget estimate; a fairness argument may depend on who can access the service. Compare each basis and ask whether the policy still meets both criteria. Agreement on the outcome does not show that the reasoning is equally strong or complete.
Look for these in your work
- Distinguishes conclusion from reasons
- Compares evidence bases
- Explains why the comparison matters
A response has a clear judgement but refers only to Source A. What should be added to make it answer a question requiring both documents?
Give me a hint
Use Source B to test, qualify or contrast the reasoning behind the judgement.
Compare my reasoning
- Identify the judgement's main criterion.
- Select a relevant claim or evidence from Source B.
- Explain how it changes or qualifies the comparison.
Bring in a relevant claim or evidence from Source B and explain whether it supports, challenges or adds a condition to the judgement. Merely naming Source B is not enough; the response must compare the reasoning and use both documents to reach the conclusion.
Look for these in your work
- Uses evidence from the second source
- Explains its relation to the judgement
- Keeps the comparison explicit
Common mistakes
- Writing one summary paragraph per source with no comparison
- Giving equal weight to sources without evaluating their evidence
- Reaching a conclusion before comparing the arguments
What can you explain now?
What makes an answer to a two-source essay comparative?
Compare with the explanation
It explains how the sources' claims, reasons, evidence or contexts differ or connect.
A comparison makes relationships between source arguments explicit.
After trying it yourself, choose your next review. This is your self-assessment.
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Make it stick
What is one difference between comparing sources and summarising them?
If you needed the solution, close it and solve the problem again from a blank page. A correct answer is stronger when you can explain the reason for each step.