Four Sundays 29 Nov 2021 to 20 Dec 2021
11am to 1230pm via zoom
$300 for 4 sessions.
$30 registration fee for new students.
Call 65694897 or whatsapp 9786 0411 to enquire or register.
A-LEVEL GENERAL PAPER CRASH COURSE (SEPTEMBER)
Course Outline:
This programme aims to lay/fine-tune the foundations of the subject so that the student is able to feel comfortable and confident in attempting both essay and comprehension papers. It will also provide students with the necessary tools to continuously build upon these skill-sets beyond the duration of the workshop.
Topics to be covered:
a) Essay Writing techniques
b) Comprehension mastery
c) Content revision
Focus:
(i) Critical thinking frameworks. How to brainstorm effectively
(ii) Effective essay structure/formats
(iii) Various comprehension question types, including “how to score for the AQ”
(iv) Streamlining content memorization and focusing more on application of knowledge
Format: Teaching + Worksheets + Discussions
DATE: 3 September (Mon) to 5 Sep (Wed) 2018
TIME: 12.45 PM – 3.45 PM (Monday to Wednesday)
Fees: $540 (10% discount if sign up with a friend. Only $486 each for both of you)
Location: Blk 644, Bukit Batok Central, #01-68. S(650644).
Target Group: Current JC2/ Year 6 IP students who wish to better prepare for the GP Paper in their A Level year
Background of Tutor:
The tutor is an NUS graduate (Bachelors Degree with Merit), with a decade of teaching experience in a Junior College, and over 15 years of providing consultation in all domains revolving around linguistics and analytics.
To register, SMS to <STUDENT NAME>, <GPCC>,<BB> to 98530744 / 97860411
For any queries, kindly call or SMS to 98530744 / 97860411
GENERAL PAPER (GP) INTENSIVE RELEARNING & REVISION JUNE 2018
“A 
good teacher is one that makes himself/herself less necessary”
Course Outline:
This programme aims to lay/fine-tune the foundations of the subject so that the student is able to feel comfortable and confident in attempting both essay and comprehension papers. It will also provide students with the necessary tools to continuously build upon these skill-sets beyond the duration of the workshop.
Topics to be covered:
a) Essay Writing techniques
b) Comprehension mastery
c) Content revision
Focus:
(i) Critical thinking frameworks. How to brainstorm effectively
(ii) Effective essay structure/formats
(iii) Various comprehension question types, including “how to score for the AQ”
(iv) Streamlining content memorization and focusing more on application of knowledge
Format: Teaching + Worksheets + Discussions
DATE: 11 June (Mon) to 13 Jun (Wed) 2018
TIME: 1.00 PM – 4.00 PM
Location: Blk 644, Bukit Batok Central, #01-68. S(650644).
Target Group: Current JC2/ Year 6 IP students who wish to better prepare for the GP Paper in their A Level year
Background of Tutor:
The tutor is an NUS graduate (Bachelors Degree with Merit), with a decade of teaching experience in a Junior College, and over 15 years of providing consultation in all domains revolving around linguistics and analytics.
To register, sms <Student Name><J2GPJUNE> to 98530744 / 97860411.
For any queries, kindly call or SMS to 98530744 / 97860411.
Year 4 / Year 5 / JC1 (2019) Head Start General Paper (GP)
To all students who are preparing to go into JC, wonderful! In JC, you will be introduced to this subject called General Paper, which is one of the subjects examined in A-levels.
What is General Paper?
General Paper is probably one of the most misunderstood subjects, and ironically so because it requires the most understanding in order to do well.
Here are 5 common misconceptions General Paper (GP) debunked:
- My English grade was not good, therefore I will struggle at GP.
DEFINITELY NOT! GP is not about how well you write, but more about what you write. This means that your ideas and thoughts are far more important.
2. GP requires me to read a lot
Whilst this is partially true, it isn’t as hellish as most students make it out to be. Having a lot of content knowledge is pointless if you have no idea how to use it. APPLICATION of that knowledge is everything.
3. Like English, I don’t really have to study for GP. I either have it or I don’t.
False! GP is a lot about skills and techniques, which can definitely be practiced under the right supervision. Essays are not free-response, hence there are helpful structures that can be learned and applied.
4. Reading model essays will improve my GP grade.
Not as much as you may think. Many different schools idealise different types of essay styles. What this means is that there is no one best way of writing. Having said that, there are specific techniques that can be used by students to cover their weaknesses and highlight their strengths.
5. GP is not as important a subject as compared to Maths and Science
This is the biggest misconception of them all, and most students realize this too late, by which time there is little that can be done. GP equips you with a set of soft skills that are the most versatile and flexible, that can be used for a wide variety of professions. Any job that requires problem solving will rely on a student with strong GP skills.
So why do a Headstart programme?
General Paper is statistically the subject students struggle with the most. Not because it is difficult, but rather because students neglect it till it is too late. By starting early, you will be able to establish a strong foundation that will allow you to begin thinking of the issues in a much more in-depth level at a much quicker rate. Also, GP is perhaps the one subject where consistency is key, and you cannot cram your learning. So a Headstart Programme is even more crucial. So come join me and set yourself up for success!
Sherman, GP tutor, Singapore Learner
Time: 2pm – 5pm , from 10 Dec to 12 Dec 2018 (3 sessions)
Location: Blk 644, Bukit Batok Central, #01-68. S(650644).
Fee: $540 per student for 3 lessons.
Background of Tutor:
The tutor is an NUS graduate (Bachelors Degree with Merit), currently teaching in a Junior College, with a decade of experience, and over 15 years of providing consultation to all domains revolving around linguistics and analytics.
To register, sms <Student Name><JC1GPHS> to 9786 0411
For any queries, you may also talk directly to the tutor at 91088581.
A-Level (2019) JC2 Head Start General Paper (GP)
FOR ALL J2 Students, the coming holiday is a great opportunity to strengthen your knowledge on GP and get a head-start in preparation for 2019. GP is an important subject not to be neglected, especially for students who are aiming for the top few courses in University.
What is General Paper?
General Paper is probably one of the most misunderstood subjects, and ironically so because it requires the most understanding in order to do well.
Here are 5 common misconceptions General Paper (GP) debunked:
- My English grade was not good, therefore I will struggle at GP.
DEFINITELY NOT! GP is not about how well you write, but more about what you write. This means that your ideas and thoughts are far more important.
2. GP requires me to read a lot
Whilst this is partially true, it isn’t as hellish as most students make it out to be. Having a lot of content knowledge is pointless if you have no idea how to use it. AAPPLICATIONof that knowledge is everything.
3. Like English, I don’t really have to study for GP. I either have it or I don’t.
False! GP is a lot about skills and techniques, which can definitely be practiced under the right supervision. Essays are not free-response, hence there are helpful structures that can be learned and applied.
4. Reading model essays will improve my GP grade.
Not as much as you may think. Many different schools idealise different types of essay styles. What this means is that there is no one best way of writing. Having said that, there are specific techniques that can be used by students to cover their weaknesses, and highlight their strengths.
5. GP is not as important a subject as compared to Maths and Science
This is the biggest misconception of them all, and most students realize this too late, by which time there is little that can be done. GP equips you with a set of soft-skills that are the most versatile and flexible, that can be used for a wide variety of professions. Any job that requires problem solving will rely on a student with strong GP skills.
So why do a Headstart programme?
General Paper is statistically the subject students struggle with the most. Not because it is difficult, but rather because students neglect it till it’s too late. By starting early, you will be able to establish a strong foundation that will allow you to begin thinking of the issues in a much more in-depth level at a much quicker rate. Also, GP is perhaps the one subject where consistency is key, and you cannot cram your learning. So a Headstart Programme is even more crucial. So come and join me and set yourself up for success!
Sherman, GP tutor, Singapore Learner
Class A: 26/11 – 28/11, 2pm – 5pm
Class B: 3/12 – 5/12, 2pm – 5pm
Class C: 10/12 – 12/12, 10am – 1pm
(Choose any one of the above)
Location: Blk 644, Bukit Batok Central, #01-68. S(650644).
Fee: $540 per student for 3 lessons.
Background of Tutor:
The tutor is an NUS graduate (Bachelors Degree with Merit), currently teaching in a Junior College, with a decade of experience, and over 15 years of providing consultation to all domains revolving around linguistics and analytics.
To register, sms <Student Name><JC2GPHS>,<DATE> to 98530744 or 97860411.
For any queries, you may also talk directly to the tutor at 91088581.
GENERAL PAPER JUNE HOLIDAYS PROGRAMME
General Paper Programme Outline
This is an intensive system designed to equip you with the essential tools needed.
Duration: 3 sessions (3hours each)
Course Levels available:
-
A) FOUNDATION BUILDING SYSTEM (suitable for students with grades below C)
-
B) FINE-TUNING SYSTEM (suitable for students with grades C and above. This course will skip fundamental work and zero-in on precision writing techniques)
*note: Course fees are identical for both programmes. Choose the one that best suits your immediate needs and circumstances.
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Overview of primary Components:
1) Essay writing techniques- Question choice & analysis, essay structures, formulating arguments, conveying ideas in effective writing- there are essays, and then there are exam-essays.
2) Comprehension skills- critical reading, question analysis, effective paraphrasing and AQ-mastery. Work-arounds and preparation before we even start reading the text is key!
3) Content- Cut down on the need to memorize tons of facts and statistics. Solutions to content-generating that will save you hours each day!
———————————————————————————————————–
Workshop structure:
Session 1: Essay writing
Dates: (Course A- May 30th/June 13th, Course B: June 6/21st )
From planning to execution. Using time effectively to maximise the quality of your essay: a step-by-step guide on how to tackle any question in Paper 1. Materials include a 101-essential checklist for every student, sample essays/paragraphs, discussion of examination questions to cover a broad range of topics/areas of focus.
Session 2: Comprehension
Dates: (Course A: May 31st/June 14th, Course B: June 7th/22nd )
Critical reading and prepping effectively to ensure the most coverage of the passage, as well as systematic addressing of the various question types. Paraphrasing techniques and practices will also be the focus as this skill is of core importance to this paper, and one many students overlook. Finally, deciphering the AQ- how to maximise marks in a time-pressured window. Materials will include a handout covering various question types, sample/excerpts from a wide range of JC examination papers, as well as sample AQs from past year Cambridge papers.
Session 3: Content
Dates: (Course A: June 1st/15th, Course B: June 8th/23rd)
General knowledge is key to scoring well. But often times, it is not the volume, but rather the quality, and application. Content-manipulation/generation can often dramatically cut back on hours spent memorising facts and stats for the mere sake of doing so. Students will be shown, through a variety of methodologies (mind-maps, issue-linking, thinking structures etc) how to prepare for the subject efficiently. Realising that topics/modules should never be approached as separate entities also falls in-line with the changing trends of GP questions set by Cambridge, where essay questions are often multi-faceted.
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Course take-homes:
LET’S MAKE THINKING FUN AGAIN
Appreciation of GP beyond just a subject, but rather gaining a set of skills that can be applied throughout various aspects of life and academia. Debunking myths such as “the more I know, the better I’ll do”, and finally, re-discovering the passion for learning over the need for studying.
Attendees of the workshop will also gain unlimited access to my web-blog, which houses a repository of articles, sample essays/AQ responses, as well as revision essentials.
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About the tutor:
Mr Shermann is a graduate from NUS, holding a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology and History. He has 9 years of teaching experience in various Junior Colleges implementing his GP programmes, and over a decade of experience in private coaching. He specialises in General Paper and English Language, and has been credited with creating unique and functional approaches to effective writing. A fun and interactive teacher, sessions with Mr Shermann promise to be eye-opening and productive. Let’s get those grades you deserve, and let’s make learning fun again!
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Administrative matters:
1) Sessions will be conducted over the June School Holidays.
2) Sessions will be run once a week, from 2pm to 5pm (or any alternative time provided by Singapore Learner), from Tuesdays to Thursdays
3) Fees are $150 per session, with a discount applied for every subsequent session. 2 sessions will be charged at $130 each, whilst signing up for all 3 sessions will be charged at $110 each only.
Venue: Blk 644, Bukit Batok Central, #01-68. S(650644)
Our location is just a 3-min walk from either the Bukit Batok MRT station or the Bukit Batok Bus Interchange. Buses that stop along the roads surrounding our location are numbers 157, 178, 66, 506, 173, 174, 176, 187, 985. Buses services which terminate at Bukit Batok Bus Interchange are 61, 77, 106, 173, 177, 189, 852, 941, 945, 947
TO REGISTER, SMS <STUDENT NAME> <SESSION & COURSE NO> <DAY> TO 98530744/ 97860411
For enquries, kindly call 9108 8581
Ideas for GP essays from various JC prelim papers
Note from our GP Advisor: h1generalpaper.wordpress.com will cover ideas for gp essays from various JCs prelim papers almost daily until Nov 1.
All the best for your GP exam!
Writing Crash Course for GENERAL PAPER
Dates: Saturday 17th Oct or Saturday 24th Oct (choose one)
Time: 7.00 pm – 10.00 pm.
Location: Blk 644, Bukit Batok Central, #01-68. S(650644).
(Our location is just a 3-min walk from either the Bukit Batok MRT station or the Bukit Batok Bus Interchange. Buses that stop along the roads surrounding our location are numbers 157, 178, 66, 506, 173, 174, 176, 187, 985. Buses services which terminate at Bukit Batok Bus Interchange are 61, 77, 106, 173, 177, 189, 852, 941, 945, 947)
Fee: $150
Aim of the writing crash course:
The aim of the writing crash course is to provide an in depth solution for students facing problems for Paper 1. Do you find it difficult to generate points and ideas? Do you hit a mental roadblock when trying to come up with relevant examples? If you answered yes to either of these questions, consider signing up for this crash course.
This crash course aims to fix the bad habits that students generally fall into while preparing for their essay writing examinations. Attending this class will provide you with a structured path to mastering as much of the basic skills that you will need to tackle the A level paper. Together, we will focus on overcoming your difficulties in writing a coherent and analytical essay.
Areas to be covered:
| Skills | Description |
| Tips & tricks of writing/Essay writing best practices | Learn how to maximize your resources |
| Strengthening Linkages | Learn how to analyse a topic in writing |
| “Lubricating” Brainstorming Techniques | Feeling stuck? Learn how to break writer’s block |
| Strengthening PEEL | Strengthening your basic structural skills |
| Topic vs Issue | Separate subjects and arguments |
| Idea vs Example | Avoiding “example-driven arguments” |
| Writing great introductions and conclusions | Set yourself apart from the cliché writing |
Benefits of the course:
- Inspire greater confidence for General Paper
- Provide structure to score better marks
- Promote deeper analysis for higher scores
- Providing checklists to avoid going out of point
- Limit bad habits that prevent students from excelling
About the tutor:
Gerald Chew is a BBA (Hons) graduate from the National University of Singapore and an affiliate accountant with the ACCA. A voracious reader since young, Gerald has spent years honing his writing and argumentative ability. He is able to break down even the most complex of issues into understandable terms for his students and takes pride in expanding their areas of expertise. Gerald is no stranger to the argumentative style of writing and has represented his alma mater, Pioneer Junior College, in debating competitions. Gerald has also actively participated in Singapore’s local poetry scene but has since taken a step back to focus on his real passion, teaching.
TO REGISTER, SMS <STUDENT NAME> , <GPCC> TO 97860411. Please indicate 17th or 24th Oct.
As places are limited, pre-payment is encouraged to confirm your attendance. You can make cash or cheque payment by visiting the centre at the address above.
Question Type Analysis for the GENERAL PAPER
Stressed over preparations? Fret not with this short but succinct write up on question type analysis. Learning how to differentiate the different varieties of questions will help to mould your answer to what the examiner is looking out for. This list is in no way exhaustive and seeks to mainly cover the most commonly encountered types.
- Analyse
- Breakdown the argument into components
- Look deeper into potential and underlying issues
- Detect areas of correlation
- Assess /To what extent/How far
- To what extent do you find the statement to be true/fair/justified?
- A non-biased weighing of both sides will be required
- Remember to take a stand by the end
- Discuss
- Debate with Pros and Cons
- Show reasoning and logical development of ideas
- Define the context to avoid dealing with too many issues
- Evaluate
- Pick a stand and determine how far it should be justified in thinking in that manner
- Evaluation means going further than just agreeing and disagreeing but why it should be seen in that manner
- How important
- Weigh both sides with cost/benefit analysis
- Consider/Is there any point
- Given your current understanding/observations, provide reasons for your opinions
- Identify contentious areas
The best way to train yourself in dealing with different question types is through practice. Start learning and developing your preference early in the year to avoid overwhelming yourself late in the year.
Gerald Chew
- Mr Chew is a BBA (Hons) graduate from the National University of Singapore Business school. He is also an ACCA affiliate after completing the ACCA examinations with a specialisation in audit and performance management. He has been teaching General Paper for over 6 years. Gerald always aims to shore up his students’ foundation in order to help them logically solve problems. He is a firm believer in engaging students on their level in order to enhance their understanding of current affairs and their implications. At Singapore Learner, Gerald offers classes for General Paper, English, Accounting, Management of Business and Economics. For details, click on A-LEVEL | JC | GENERAL PAPER TUITION.
Copyright © 2015 by Singapore Learner. All Rights Reserved.
The Biggest Mistakes made in General Paper Information Research
With the coming exams, many of you out there must be feeling stress in finding information for your essays. Without proper examples, statistics or events, it would be difficult to put forward a coherent argument. Your examples provide your argument with backbone to demonstrate how you came to your opinion in a logical manner. Finding the right sort of information through research is the key to unlocking your fullest potential.
In this short write up, I’ll describe some of the usual pitfalls that students encounter in looking for information.
- Being overly fixated on the topic rather than the issue
- The topic in the question merely forms the boundaries for your essay
- Merely putting the key words (e.g energy consumption) will throw back a myriad of results
- Another common problem is copying and pasting the question into the search bar in a lazy attempt to discover the right answer (e.g ‘Traditional marriage is an outdated concept.’ To what extent is this true of your society?)
- The biggest issue is being given an information dump without a single clue about how to synthesize your information
Solution: Find someone you trust to walk you through the topic. Either your teacher or a tutor would be more equipped to tackle difficult questions in a more effective way. If you’re seeking help in the west of Singapore, approach Gerald Chew at singaporelearner.com to enquire about classes.
- Obsession with statistics
- Statistics are a means to an end
- Statistics without relevance provide a false sense of security that you are able to logically map out an argument
Solution: Pick and choose the most relevant facts. Knowing 5 key statistics that you know at your finger tips will be more helpful than a book full of redundant facts.
- Not starting with your own assumptions
- Looking for the “right” answer dulls your ability to come up with your own arguments
- Assuming there are “right” answers will be a big stumbling block to creative thinking
- Learn to adapt your opinions
- Picking evidence from poorly sourced sites
- Learn to understand Google best practices in searching to avoid outdated or biased bits of information. Remember, the more incredulous it sounds, the more it should be double checked
- Depending on pseudo scientific research papers or preliminary papers instead of curated content
Gerald Chew
- Mr Chew is a BBA (Hons) graduate from the National University of Singapore Business school. He is also an ACCA affiliate after completing the ACCA examinations with a specialisation in audit and performance management. He has been teaching General Paper for over 6 years. Gerald always aims to shore up his students’ foundation in order to help them logically solve problems. He is a firm believer in engaging students on their level in order to enhance their understanding of current affairs and their implications. At Singapore Learner, Gerald offers classes for General Paper, English, Accounting, Management of Business and Economics. For details, click on A-LEVEL | JC | GENERAL PAPER TUITION.
Copyright © 2015 by Singapore Learner. All Rights Reserved.