General Paper Tips to Score Well in GP Exams
- Written By Seline
- Updated on November 3, 2023
Worried about General Paper (GP) A level exams? Read along for important tips that will help you to score well in GP.
General Paper (GP) is a compulsory H1 level subject for JCs in Singapore. General Paper (GP) stands as an indispensable pillar in the academic journey of Junior College (JC) students pursuing the A-Levels. As a compulsory H1 level subject, it assumes a pivotal role in shaping the intellectual prowess and critical thinking abilities of students. The significance of excelling in GP extends beyond the confines of the classroom, as it directly impacts the trajectory of one’s academic and professional pursuits.
Primarily designed to cultivate a broad-based knowledge and understanding of various contemporary issues, General paper serves as a gateway to a spectrum of university courses that demand analytical acumen and a nuanced perspective. Among the disciplines that hinge on a commendable performance in GP are Economics, Law, Public Policy, Global Affairs, Psychology, and more. The mastery of GP is, therefore, not merely an academic obligation but a strategic investment in one’s future aspirations.
1- What is General Paper?
Broadly speaking, General Paper aims to help students develop the ability to think critically, construct coherent arguments and communicate their ideas using clear, accurate and effective language. GP exams consist of essay writing and comprehension components similar to English at the O-Levels but require higher argumentation and advanced critical thinking skills.
If you are curious about what is General Paper, it is a subject that tests students’ abilities to engage with a wide spectrum of globally relevant issues, preparing them for the demands of higher education and the evolving job market. It promotes an understanding of the interconnectedness of ideas, hones skills for deciphering complex global challenges, fosters inquisitiveness, encourages thoughtful contemplation, and nurtures the capacity to express opinions thoughtfully and responsibly, equipping students to make informed decisions and contribute positively to their communities.
To read in detail about GP syllabus, click here.
2- Tips to Score Well for General Paper
General Paper is an important subject for students studying in JCs in Singapore. It essentially gauges students’ logical and cognitive abilities – which may seem daunting for some. However, with the right tips and tricks, it is not difficult to score well in the subject. If you are wondering how to score well in GP, read on for tips from our student writer!
2i- Read, read and read.
A good grasp of general knowledge is crucial in doing well for GP. The wider you read, the more prepared you will be to tackle current affairs questions. Consider newspapers, journals, literature, and academic publications. It is not just about what you read but how you critically analyse what you have read – enriching your perspectives on different subjects will deepen your understanding of the world and help you formulate better arguments.
2ii– Practice Writing
Writing regularly is crucial. Try different forms of writing on a regular basis – blog posts, opinion pieces, argumentative essays, and perhaps even fictional stories. The more you write, the more you will refine your writing style and structure. After all, practice makes perfect.
Also read : Junior Colleges in Singapore – An overview
2iii– Learn Essay Structure
Take the time to understand how to structure an essay and organise your thoughts effectively. It is especially important to plan your points and reorder them to suit the General Paper questions asked of you.
2iv– Always Analyse Questions
Always remember to analyse all General Paper questions carefully – be it comprehension or essays. Identify what kind of questions are asked – direct, inference, etc.- then ensure you address them accordingly.
2v- Back up options with evidence
Forming well-informed opinions is vital in doing well for General Paper. Support all your arguments with facts, statistics, and real-life examples. This adds credibility to your writing. Memorise some useful figures if possible (i.e. it is estimated that more than 20 per cent of the world’s population lacks adequate housing), and use them to substantiate your points.
2vi- Keep Your Vocabulary Bank Updated
Build your vocabulary continually. Learning new words and their usage can make your writing more sophisticated and precise.
2vii- Check, Edit and Edit Some More
Writing is rewriting. Edit your essays for clarity, conciseness, and coherence. Spot grammatical errors, repeated points, and correct them accordingly.
2viii- Hone Comprehension Skills
Hone your ability to extract key points and ideas from comprehension passages in Paper 2 of General Paper. This would help you better understand the text and, subsequently, answer the questions with more confidence.
Also read : Guide to Choosing JC Subjects
2ix- Learn Time Management Skills
Time management is essential and crucial for every exam. If there is one advice given repeatedly by all the JCs in Singapore is Time management during your A levels. Practise writing essays within the allocated time to ensure you can complete the actual paper during exams.
2x- Keep Up To Date With Current Affairs
Be aware of current affairs and the latest developments both in Singapore and around the world. This knowledge will be useful for examples and context when you answer General Paper questions. Take down notes for major topics and create mind maps of useful information to help you remember important details.
2xi- Engage In Debates/Discussion On Hot-Button Topics With Peers
Most of the JCs in Singapore have a debate club whare you can debate on latest happenings. If you are not part of a debate club, engage in debates and discussions on various topics with your classmates and friends. This helps in structuring arguments and refining your speaking and writing skills.
2xii- Cultivate Your Own Opinions
Gather information from a wide range of sources, form your own opinions and then believe in them. Your conviction towards topics would naturally lead to better arguments, leading to a better score for GP.
2xiii- Seek Feedback from Teachers and Peers
Do not hesitate to ask for feedback from your teachers and peers. Constructive criticism can help you identify areas for improvement.
2xiv- Consistency is Key
Consistent effort is key to excelling in the General Paper. Regular practice and study will always be more effective than last-minute cramming.
3- Conclusion
Overall, General Paper is a subject that takes time and effort to excel in. It requires students to break down complex ideas into simple concepts and develop a systematic approach to learning that will equip them with essential examination skills and answering techniques. Many JCs in Singapore have specialised GP departments where students can seek assistance as needed.
You should be better prepared to tackle your GP exams by focusing on the points mentioned in this article and integrating them into your study routine.
Keep in mind that the development of these skills requires consistent effort and perseverance!
4- Explore Klassbook for Classes in Singapore
To explore more classes, go through our list of junior school classes here. Why not start with a trial class to gauge your child’s interest?
Seline holds a typical 9 to 6 office job but believes that her true calling lies elsewhere. In her free time now, she writes articles and plays with her pet cat, while harbouring the dream of writing a fiction book someday. She is a fan of the underdog (or cat) story and loves every display of grit.
