Guide for JC Economics (H1/H2)
Posted: Sat Feb 08, 2014 10:50 pm
Study Guide for GCE ‘A’ Level Economics H1 and H2
Do you find ‘A’ Level economic theories abstract and sometimes incomprehensible?
Do you have problems in relating economic theories to current world affairs?
Do you have difficulty in putting your thoughts into words and finally a coherent essay?
If so, you are not alone as tens of thousands of GCE ‘A’ Level economics students also face the daunting task to do well for H1 and H2 economics each year.
The problems can be summarised into AWE:
Abstractness: Economics is unlike quantitative subjects like mathematics and physics where a definite principle can be used and a clear answer can be arrived; or unlike General Paper where there is no definite answer and all depends on your arguments and a good grasp of the language. Economics however lies in between the both: the theories and answers are not definite but within the boundary of the commonly accepted economic principles.
Worldliness: Case studies and essay questions are based more on application rather than theoretical derivation. Busy ‘A’ Level students often have little time to read up on current affairs let alone to analyse and evaluation them using economic theories. Hence, they often end up clueless about the implications and repercussions of various economic policies. Moreover, current affairs is not something that can be memorised and then regurgitated out intact.
Economics Terminology: A good grasp of the English language is definitely necessary but not sufficient. The previous sentence has demonstrated one use of economic terminology. Not only the student must plan his answers ahead in his mind, but also to pen down his thoughts into essay that flows coherently, buttressed by specialised economic terminology, theoretical concepts as well as empirical evidences to distinguish it from a General Paper essay.
Rather than be shock and AWE from the challenge, this short guide is to assist the current economic student to overcome this subject. Although the steps suggested look deceptively simply but to bring it to fruition need some Hard Work.
Step 1: Familiarise with the overall format and expectations of the examination paper
Step 2: Summarise all the economic concepts and principles
Step 3: Relate the various principles and concepts to policies and applications
Click Study guide for JCEconomics for more detials for the 3 steps
Do you find ‘A’ Level economic theories abstract and sometimes incomprehensible?
Do you have problems in relating economic theories to current world affairs?
Do you have difficulty in putting your thoughts into words and finally a coherent essay?
If so, you are not alone as tens of thousands of GCE ‘A’ Level economics students also face the daunting task to do well for H1 and H2 economics each year.
The problems can be summarised into AWE:
Abstractness: Economics is unlike quantitative subjects like mathematics and physics where a definite principle can be used and a clear answer can be arrived; or unlike General Paper where there is no definite answer and all depends on your arguments and a good grasp of the language. Economics however lies in between the both: the theories and answers are not definite but within the boundary of the commonly accepted economic principles.
Worldliness: Case studies and essay questions are based more on application rather than theoretical derivation. Busy ‘A’ Level students often have little time to read up on current affairs let alone to analyse and evaluation them using economic theories. Hence, they often end up clueless about the implications and repercussions of various economic policies. Moreover, current affairs is not something that can be memorised and then regurgitated out intact.
Economics Terminology: A good grasp of the English language is definitely necessary but not sufficient. The previous sentence has demonstrated one use of economic terminology. Not only the student must plan his answers ahead in his mind, but also to pen down his thoughts into essay that flows coherently, buttressed by specialised economic terminology, theoretical concepts as well as empirical evidences to distinguish it from a General Paper essay.
Rather than be shock and AWE from the challenge, this short guide is to assist the current economic student to overcome this subject. Although the steps suggested look deceptively simply but to bring it to fruition need some Hard Work.
Step 1: Familiarise with the overall format and expectations of the examination paper
Step 2: Summarise all the economic concepts and principles
Step 3: Relate the various principles and concepts to policies and applications
Click Study guide for JCEconomics for more detials for the 3 steps