The 12-markers test one skill: a sustained, direct comparison. Pick a question, work out whether it wants similarities or differences, write your own comparison points, then reveal the model points with the thinkers, concepts and examples and a model paragraph.
The method: 12-markers are AO1 + AO2 only. No introduction, no conclusion, no line of argument - there are no AO3 marks. Each paragraph makes one comparison: state the point, give the AO1 detail (named bodies, thinkers, examples, dates), then explain it with a direct comparison ("whereas", "similarly", "by contrast"). Aim for two or three developed points in 25 minutes. Read the wording: some questions ask for similarities, some for differences, some for the criticisms of both.
1. Pick a question
Real past Q1a / Q1b questions, plus an option to choose any pairing and practise it as a similarities or a differences question.
2. Write your comparison points
List two or three points, one per line. Each should compare the two directly - not describe one then the other. Your work saves automatically on this device.
3. Model comparison points
1. Pick a theme
Every Q2 asks how realism and liberalism differ on a theme. Choose one, imagine an "Analyse the differences..." question, and write the differences you would use.
Analyse the differences between the realist and liberal views · realism v liberalism
Differences
2. Write the differences
List two or three points where realists and liberals part company on this theme, naming thinkers where you can. Saves automatically on this device.
3. Realism against liberalism
The two sides on this theme, with the named thinkers. In the exam you turn each row into one paragraph of direct comparison.