Extended Response for paper 1

Exam paper format Paper 1 : 50 Marks [1 hour 30 minutes]

Section A: Micro economics [25 Marks] [45 Min.]

Question 1 or 2 [only one] A) 10 marks [Explain, Elaborate, Analyse ]

B) 15 marks [Evaluate, discuss, Examine, compare and contrast]

Section B: Macro economics [25 Marks] [45 Min]

Question 3 or 4 [Only one ] A) 10 Marks [Explain, Elaborate, Analyse]

B) 15 Marks [Evaluate, discuss, Examine, compare and contrast]

1. Choose essay(s) with care Don’t simply look for your favourite/strong topic and

plunge in!

Make sure you can answer this particular question on your topic.

It is no good writing, however well, about the CAUSESof inflation, when the question asks about the EFFECTS of inflation!

2. Writing question For every essay you do for our exam, whether it’s a long

one or a mini-essay, always write out the exactessay question

Titles like “Economics essay” or “Inflation” will not be of much use to you when you come to revise!

Even under exam conditions we would recommend that you do this, as it will help you to focus upon thequestion.

3. Always Plan your essays

Write out the main points on some rough paper, and then you can re-arrange them into a more logical order by numbering them. [mind map]

Your rough notes also gives you a place to jot down a new idea that arises after you have already begun to write the essay itself, rather than simply hoping you’ll remember it later.

Don’t forget to have an introduction and some kind of conclusion in the long essay.

4. Time allocation

As the essay will be in two parts, note the allotted marks (10 and 15)given in brackets, and divide your 45 (a and b part) minutes accordingly.

We suggest you to practice at home by setting time limit.

Its very important to give due attention to time allocation.

5. Writing section “a” or “b”

As the essay is in two parts, actually WRITE “a)”and “b)” in your margin.

Keep the examiner on your side; he/she doesn’t want to waste time trying to work out where your “a)” ends and “b)” begins! Never merge the parts into a single answer.

Also, the examiner is working to a marking scheme from the I.B., which of course is also based on “a)”and “b)”. So make life easy for the examiner

6 Defining economics terminology Always DEFINE any economic terminology in the

question.

“Answer the question, the whole question and nothing but the question.”

7. Only Question

8. Use of Diagrams

You must use DIAGRAMS whenever relevant or appropriate to do so

ALWAYS use a ruler; show the examiner you have some pride in your work!

ALWAYS label them fully and accurately.

ALWAYS describe or “use” them.

DON’T draw them too small or too big!

DON’T place them all at the end of your essay!

9. Revising the work

If you have time at the end of the exam ALWAYS check your work.

Don’t just collapse on the desk. Be different and use EVERY minute the I.B. gives you!

10. Use an appropriate Essay style

Not in note form (unless you are really running out of time!)

Not in a numbered list.

No bullet points

Not in a colloquial style (you are not giving a talk!).

Do not use unacceptable abbreviations.

Wish you all the Best