GED RLA: How to Compare Two Passages
Some reading questions require you to examine two passages and determine how they are similar or different. The passages may discuss the same topic while presenting different arguments, perspectives, or evidence. The key is to compare what the authors actually say rather than relying on your own opinion about the subject.
1. Identify the Main Idea of Each Passage
Start by summarizing each passage separately. Ask: What is Passage A mainly saying? Then ask: What is Passage B mainly saying? Write each answer in one sentence. This prevents you from mixing information from the two passages.
2. Identify Each Author's Position
Two authors may discuss the same topic but reach different conclusions. For example, both passages might discuss online education. One author could argue that online classes provide flexibility. Another might argue that students can struggle without face-to-face interaction. The topic is the same, but the positions are different.
3. Compare Supporting Evidence
Look at how each author supports their position. One passage might use statistics. Another might use personal examples or expert opinions. Ask:
- What evidence does each author provide?
- Is the evidence relevant?
- Does one author provide stronger support?
- Do both authors use similar types of evidence?
4. Look for Similarities
Make a list of ideas the passages share. For example: Passage A: Exercise improves overall health. Passage B: Regular physical activity can improve physical well-being. Although the wording differs, both passages support a similar idea.
5. Look for Differences
Then identify disagreements or differences in emphasis. Perhaps both authors agree that exercise is useful, but one focuses on physical health while the other focuses on mental well-being. A comparison question may test whether you can recognize this difference.
6. Pay Attention to Tone
Tone describes the author's attitude toward the subject. An author may sound:
- Optimistic
- Concerned
- Critical
- Supportive
- Neutral
- Skeptical
Compare the language used by each author. Words and phrases can reveal whether the author is strongly supporting an idea or approaching it cautiously.
7. Avoid Outside Assumptions
When comparing passages, use information from the passages themselves. If one passage says that a policy increased employment, you should not assume that it also improved wages unless the passage provides evidence for that conclusion. Answer based on what can be supported by the text.
A Useful Comparison Chart
Feature Passage A Passage B Main idea What is the author saying? What is the author saying? Position What does the author believe? What does the author believe? Evidence What supports the argument? What supports the argument? Tone How does the author sound? How does the author sound? Similarities — — Differences — —
Final Thoughts
Comparing passages becomes easier when you analyze them separately first. Identify each author's main idea, position, evidence, and tone, then look for similarities and differences.
