The General Paper (GP) plays an important role in the GCE A Levels, as it is a subject with profound benefits that extend beyond secondary school. Mastering GP is not only a requirement for success in the A level examination but a worthwhile general goal which students should pursue. This is because the subject is intended to hone candidates’ ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and engage in a discussion of current affairs; all of which are skills that are essential in tertiary education, in the workplace, and more generally, in life.
Here are some tips on how to ace your GP (General Paper) subject in JC:
Make the Most of Accessible Materials
Singaporean students should access local news outlets like The Straits Times, which offer insights into current affairs and societal issues. By reading and analyzing articles from these sources, students can strengthen their language skills and gain relevant examples for their essays. Similarly, accessing reputable global news sources provides students with a broader understanding of international events and issues, thereby allowing them to contextualize their arguments within a global framework.
Be Aware of and Proficient at Discussing Local and Global Issues
Singapore’s multicultural environment serves as an excellent context for students to explore topics related to diversity, social cohesion, and cultural awareness in their GP essays. Simultaneously, global knowledge can be incorporated to provide context and demonstrate the broader implications of the issues discussed.
Develop Critical Thinking Ability
GP students will be presented with questions related to issues such as sustainable economic development, environmental protection, and wealth disparity. In order to discuss these issues meaningfully, students must understand what critical thinking entails. It is recommended that sufficient time be allocated to reading commentaries and opinion pieces in news sources, and to analyzing how arguments are presented and countered.
Get Focused Practice
Given the complexity and diversity of questions that can be tested in GP, consistent practice is essential for students to stand out and excel in their examinations. Regular essay writing and comprehension practice enables students to develop speed and accuracy in answering questions. More importantly, there is a need for candidates to identify areas of weakness and commit time and effort to addressing these areas. Through targeted practice, candidates’ general proficiency in the subject will improve.
Why Learners’ Lodge
Our tutors utilize effective strategies that have been developed over many years of teaching the subject. Each of our GP tutors also approaches the teaching of the subject in somewhat different ways so as to cater to the needs of different students.
Our experienced tutors are dedicated to providing invaluable guidance to help students approach GP with confidence and proficiency.
For those seeking GP tuition in Singapore, whether you choose 1-to-1 or small group classes, we are wholeheartedly committed to helping you achieve better grades in GP. For more information on our tuition services, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Let us work together towards excellence in GP!