Pre-Exam Preparation |
- Revise thoroughly well in advance of the examination.
- Use past papers to help you prepare. This will familiarise you with the exam format.
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Exam Day Preparation |
- Take time to carefully read the information, instructions and advice on the front of the exam paper.
- Make sure you understand how the marks are allocated. The number of marks allocated to each question is your guide to how much detail to include in your answer.
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Deciding Which Questions to Answer |
- Where you have a choice, read each question carefully before deciding which to answer.
- Jot down a few brief notes to see which questions you can answer best. Then make your decision.
- Attempt only the questions you are required to complete. This may seem obvious, but some students mistakenly attempt all questions when they are not required to do so. This is a waste of time, as we will only award you marks for the questions you are supposed to answer.
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Your Responses |
- Read the question carefully and make sure you fully understand what is being asked. You are marked on how well you answer the question set.
- Be sure that you understand the ‘command’ words used in questions. These include explain, analyse, examine, discuss, and evaluate.
- Stick to the point. Don’t waste valuable time writing details and facts that do not help answer the question.
- When answering questions based on source material, apply your knowledge to the source. Some students ignore the stimulus material completely. Don’t do this – the material is there to help you. However, don’t rely entirely on the source material. Go beyond it by including additional evidence or reasoning to support your answer.
- If a question asks you to give examples, do so. If you don’t give examples, you will not earn full marks.
- In questions with a larger mark allocation, use larger selection of examples. Using a limited range of examples may restrict your opportunity to achieve a high score.
- We award marks for the quality of your written communication. Take care when writing your answers, explain yourself fully and clearly, and use political terms accurately.
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Managing Your Time |
- Make sure you know how much time is allocated for the exam, and regularly check how much time you have left.
- Manage your time carefully. Make sure you allow enough time for each question.
- Don’t rewrite the question in your answer booklet. This wastes time as well as space in your answer booklet.
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Review |
- If time permits, check over your answers and correct any errors.
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