The GP Application Question: How to Do Well for GP AQ

To many students, the GP Application Question represents the high-stakes final hurdle of Paper 2 in General Paper, significantly influencing the final grade.

This component is frequently perceived as daunting because it forces candidates to bridge the gap between an author's abstract arguments and the concrete reality of Singaporean society.

However, with a systematic framework, answering the GP AQ can be a breeze. This blog will guide you on how to write a distinction-worthy response.

Understanding the GP AQ

As the final section of Paper 2, the 12-mark GP AQ requires you to evaluate the applicability of an author’s arguments within Singapore’s context.

You are assessed on:

  • Requirements: Effectively addressing all parts of the prompt and referencing specific passage ideas.
  • Explanation: Elaborating on arguments with insightful reasons that demonstrate a deep understanding of issues.
  • Evaluation: Providing reasoned judgements and nuanced views on the validity of the author's claims.
  • Coherence: Organising ideas logically with smooth transitions to ensure a persuasive and clear flow.

How to Write an Effective GP AQ Response

1. Understand the Question

Begin by analysing keywords in the question to identify its main command. For instance, if you’re asked to "discuss the relevance" of a claim, you will have to examine how applicable the idea remains in a contemporary setting.

The question commands can vary between those that ask you about the topic’s significance, impact, or its benefits versus harms.

All questions will rely on the need for you to answer in ‘your society’ which signals that you have to ground your entire discussion within the Singaporean context, rather than relying on global generalisations. For non-Singaporean students, note that the syllabus specifically allows you to use your own home country for the purposes of the AQ.

2. Plan Your Answer

To avoid contradictions, plan your GP AQ response before putting pen to paper.

You can adopt the ‘three-point rule’ by selecting two to three distinct arguments from the passage to address. This strategy ensures your choices are sufficiently varied to avoid repetition. Remember that the argument must address the question directly.

Furthermore, remain strategic during the planning phase, such as by employing a ‘onetwo-agree, one-disagree’ approach to the various authors while addressing the question demands to demonstrate nuanced thinking for a balanced response.

3. Identify Relevant Examples

Anchor your arguments with specific and current local examples, such as recent government policies or evolving social trends.

This is where reading widely proves essential, as the material you read can provide the necessary information you need to substantiate your claims. Remember, there is no need for excessive specific details, but just share what you know exists or happens in your society.

By providing concrete details, you give analytical weight to your GP AQ answer.

4. Provide an Alternative View

Acknowledging a counter-argument or an exception to the author’s rule is crucial to demonstrating intellectual breadth. This helps significantly in Evaluation.

You can introduce an alternative view to your primary thesis by using concessive qualifiers to show that exceptions exist without invalidating your overall stand.

For example, phrases like “while this holds true” or “although” can help you acknowledge nuance and complexity in your argument.

4. Provide an Insightful Evaluation

Another way of ensuring that you do well for Evaluation is to add insights about Your Society. This must be central to the argument you have been making, such as highlighting how Singapore is a meritocratic society, or a pragmatic one.

In some AQs, a less macro viewpoint which is also insightful could be to discuss how Singapore is small and dense, which is why noise pollution, for example, is a major detriment to residents living here.

Sample Structure of a GP Application Question Response

Here’s a sample framework for an effective GP Application Question response:

  • Main response: Clearly identify and paraphrase the author’s argument before stating the extent to which you agree or disagree with their premise by answering the question.
  • Explanation: Elaborate on the underlying reasons for your stance, substantiating your claims with specific evidence relevant to Singapore’s context.
  • Alternative perspective: Introduce a nuanced counter-argument or limitation, identifying specific scenarios or subgroups in Singapore where the author’s original point might not necessarily apply.
  • Evaluation: Conclude the paragraph by offering insights, explaining why your primary thesis remains more prevalent despite the identified alternative viewpoints.

Mistakes to Avoid

Be mindful of these common pitfalls when writing your GP AQ response:

  • Lifting from the text: Avoid copying the author's phrasing wholesale. Instead, paraphrase the identified points to demonstrate genuine comprehension of the passage. While it is not a paraphrasing question, the key ideas should be synthesised to your interpretation.
  • Lacking local context: Refrain from using global examples, such as American political developments, when the prompt specifically mandates a focus on "your society" in Singapore. Do not use overseas case studies to compare.
  • Making generalisations: Steer clear of sweeping claims. Instead, ensure every argument has evidence-based backing or a sound logical justification to maintain persuasiveness.
  • Poor time management: Protect the final twenty to thirty minutes of your paper to ensure the AQ is completed fully. Do not over-invest time in short-answer questions.
  • Contradicting your thesis: Ensure your alternative perspective is framed as a nuanced exception. This prevents your overall argument from appearing confused or logically inconsistent.

Conquering the GP AQ with illum.e

While a clear structure and consistent practice are essential for mastering the GP AQ, external support from a dedicated GP tuition centre like illum.e can significantly accelerate your progress.

Our classes facilitate dynamic discussions and provide curated GP notes that help you stay abreast of current affairs.

Moreover, through regular practice and personalised feedback, we help you familiarise yourself with varied question types and refine your techniques.

Beyond helping you study for Paper 2, illum.e also provides comprehensive support for every component of the exam to help you secure your ‘A’ grade.

So, register with us and start mastering General Paper with confidence today!