Chapter 12
covers Examination tips and some issues to bear in mind before and during the
examination.
All
students want to know what to do just before and during the examination. There
is obviously no formula with a solution. However, there are a few things you
can do to prepare yourself physically and mentally before and during an
examination.
General
Paper is not a subject you can master overnight. Burning the midnight oil may
help with other subjects, but definitely not with General Paper. A reasonably
good command of English, built up over years of practice, coupled with the
ability to think, analyze and criticize maturely is what is required. These
skills cannot be developed overnight; they are built up over time. If you are
equipped with these skills and have been writing regularly, then you are ready
anytime to sit for and excel in the General Paper examination.
You can see
from the marking scheme that marks are awarded to Content
(30 marks) and Use of English (20 marks).
Last Minute Tips
Just
before the Examination
Make sure you are physically fit.
Be early, or at least, punctual.
Try not to be nervous.
Think positive.
During
the examination
Select
Essay Title with care
Select two titles from two different
sections.
Select titles with care, making sure you
fully understand the question.
Make sure you have sufficient points/
arguments as well as supporting evidence to write the essay.
If you come across a title which appears ‘very
easy’, think twice to make sure you know what is required. Don’t write a superficial essay; write an
essay befitting what is expected of an ‘A’ level student.
Number the Essay
Make sure you number the essay question you are
answering.
Alternatively, write the essay question in full.
Write
the Essay
Content
Understand the question.
Plan your essay.
Make sure you answer the question
and don’t go out of point.
Don’t beat around the bush.
Support your arguments with concrete
examples.
Use of English
Write
essays free from errors in grammar, spelling and punctuation.
Write clear and fluent English.
Avoid
redundancy, clumsy expressions and rambling sentences.
Make
sure essays flow smoothly.
Avoid
colloquialisms and slang phrases.
Use appropriate Vocabulary.
After
Writing the Essays
Don’t leave the exam hall once you
finish writing the essays.
Edit and correct your essays after
you finish writing both essays.
Edit your essay twice if you have
time.
You're ready! Good luck!
Finally,
allow me to wish all of you the best of luck in the examination. May you all obtain
the grades you hope for.