GCSE/IGCSE Sample Answer: "Do the Houses of Parliament belong more to the past or the present?”

This digital resource provides a high-quality compare-and-contrast sample answer exploring whether the Houses of Parliament belong more to the past or the present. It guides students through a structured, engaging comparison between Gothic architecture and the demands of today’s digital, global political world. The sample shows how to describe, explain, analyse, and balance two contrasting ideas in a way that is both accessible and impressive.

Students will see exactly how to organise a response, how to compare effectively, and how to use descriptive and analytical writing techniques suitable for top-level marks. The sample answer models strong paragraphing, clear comparisons, and an engaging writing voice that students can apply to their own work.

What students gain from this PDF
• A complete, high-quality model response they can learn from and refer back to
• A clear demonstration of how to compare and contrast two ideas in depth
• Exposure to descriptive, analytical, and explanatory writing techniques
• An example of how to structure a long, controlled essay for GCSE/IGCSE exams
• Improved confidence in handling complex essay titles and unusual prompts
• A deeper understanding of how to balance historical and modern perspectives in a thoughtful way
• A revision-friendly layout that is easy to annotate, highlight, and adapt

Why this compare-and-contrast sample is relevant for GCSE and IGCSE English Language?
Compare and contrast tasks frequently appear in both GCSE and IGCSE English Language papers, especially in non-fiction writing and long-form responses. Examiners look for clarity, structure, balance, and the ability to explore two sides of an idea. This sample shows exactly how to do that. It also demonstrates the type of descriptive, engaging language that helps students lift their responses from “basic” to “thoughtful” and “insightful.” For many students, seeing a complete example is the key to understanding what examiners expect.

Age group
This digital file is designed for students aged 12–16 who are preparing for GCSE or IGCSE English Language exams, or who simply need support learning how to compare and contrast effectively.

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Total Number of Pages in this PDF: 11

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