(130) How to Write a DP Global Politics Paper 2

Introduction to Writing a Paper on Global Politics

• Overview of paper-writing strategies to achieve high grades.

• Anticipation of exam stress and how to manage it through effective preparation.

Exam Structure

• Understanding exam format based on August 2017 questions:

  • Eight questions covering four core units: sovereignty, international relations, human rights, and development.

  • HL students: Answer three questions (cannot choose from the same units).

  • SL students: Answer two questions.

Strategies for Exam Success

1. Calmness and Initial Reading

• Upon receiving the exam, remain calm despite initial shock from complex language.

• Read all questions quickly to form an initial understanding.

2. Elimination Process

• Eliminate difficult units/topics:

  • HL: Eliminate one completely, choose the remaining from different units.

  • SL: Eliminate two, choose one from each remaining unit.

3. Focus on Individual Questions

• After identifying topics to write on, focus solely on one question for the first writing session.

• Example: Choose a question on definitions of development versus well-being and analyze it thoroughly.

4. Isolation of Arguments

• Break down the question into key components:

  • Identify binary relationships (e.g., basic needs vs. well-being).

  • Reflect on what 'basic needs' and 'well-being' entail, using frameworks such as Maslow's hierarchy of needs.

5. Development of Content Points

• Brainstorm relevant global politics content related to the question:

  • Connect ideas on economic development, poverty, and well-being.

  • Important indicators like HDI and Happy Planet Index (HPI).

6. Structuring the Paper

• Develop a logical structure:

  • Include introduction, body paragraphs (with PEAL method), and a conclusion.

  • Outline argument points and supporting details clearly.

7. Writing Effective Introduction

• Construct an introduction that:

  • Identifies key terms and connects directly to the question.

  • Presents the primary claim regarding the shift from basic needs to well-being.

8. Utilizing the PEAL Method

• Write body paragraphs using PEAL framework:

  • Point: State the argument clearly.

  • Evidence: Provide a case study or real-world example.

  • Analysis: Analyze the implications of the evidence.

  • Link: Relate back to the main argument of the paper.

9. Counterarguments

• Ensure to address opposing perspectives in the essay:

  • Discuss the relevance of both basic needs and well-being.

10. Writing Conclusions

• Wrap up without introducing new arguments:

  • Reiterate key ideas and connect back to the essay question.

Time Management Tips

• Allocate specific time blocks for each part of the exam:

  • Initial breakdown of the question: ~10 minutes.

  • Developing arguments and writing: ~30-40 minutes.

  • Reread, ensure completion, and finalize: ~10 minutes.

Final Thoughts

• Confidence in knowledge is key to success.

• After finishing, take breaks if time permits.

• Reflect positively on the effort put into learning and preparation.