Wednesday, 23 August 2017

GP expectations

Is scoring a distinction in GP difficult? It would be a lie if anyone tells you GP is unchallenging, but it is definitely possible to score distinctions and attain a good pass. A well-written GP essay is not only one imbued with a wide variety of exemplifications written by someone well-read and capable of insightful reflection and argumentation. An impressive essay can be written if one attains a flair and personal style which can only be gradually acquired by reading widely over a period of time.

Besides essay writing, one also needs to read, comprehend, infer, summarize and paraphrase phrases and sentences from one to two essays written by journalists, academics, intellectuals, philosophers, entrepreneurs, politicians and leaders in their respective fields. In addition, the Application Question (AQ) at the end of the comprehension paper requires one to relate the main ideas of the particular passage with the Singaporean context, evaluating if the thoughts and opinion are relevant, applicable and valid when seen from a local perspective.

Evidently, vocabulary is of utmost importance as one has to employ a variety of words to express succinctly. A clarity of mind is essential for one to formulate lucid and convincing arguments. With these, one is able to write well and we all know, good writers with insightful views on global and local issues earn recognition and respect. GP is the subject that gives all of us the key to become better writers.

AIm for 25 for content:
A thoughtful response which is consistently argued. The answer shows sustained clarity of relevant and detailed discussion.A balanced discussion which reflects the depth of evaluation and awareness of the issues raised by the question. Apt or appropriate use of illustration which may lack originality, but clearly supports the argument, with most points being effectively linked to the ideas being conveyed. Examples are wide ranging. Fully relevant, addressing the requirements of the question throughout.
*Reading makes practice effective, and Practice makes perfect.*

General paper essay component is a more fact-based paper compared to O Level English writing component. You need to analyze your writing equally as you did and have an interesting hook and end to your essay. However, you need to include much more perspectives in your essay and attack the question with a mature attitude. Identify the debatable issue, locate the relevance of the issue to today's era, define all terms, make your stand clear and you will at least get 30! I am intending to focus on government and politics -includes economics because the topic is versatile. Here is some research:



Impact on countries/global progress/ resolution of inequality

  • Idea of Leadership
Corrupt leaders:

  • Idea of Technology
  • Media and the government:

Trump and media

Tuesday, 9 May 2017

Eras

Napoleonic era

Orwellian

Digital Age


Players

International Organisations: FAO, World Bank, International Monetary Fund

Agencies:
- National Security Agency

NGOs:

IGOs :OPEC, UN

Leaders:
Donald Trump
Obama
Nelson Mandela
Napoleon
Bill Clinton
Lee Kwan Yew
Vladimir Putin
Bashar al-Assad
Margaret Thatcher
Winston Churchill
Mother Theresa (w criticisms)

Agreements:
Climate Change Agreement