1. Notes
3. Structured essay questions
GCE 2002
a) To what extent was the merger with Malaya
in 1963 due to Singapore's desire for independence? Explain your answer.
Tips
1. Explain Singapore's desire for independence as a reason for merger.
2. Explain any two other factors (eg Singapore's desire for Common
Market and Malaya's security as reasons for merger.)
3. Make a judgement - how far was Singapore's desire for independence the most
important factor?
b) 'Singapore's separation from Malaysia
was a disaster'. How far do you agree with this statement? Explain your answer.
Tips
1. Explain why it is possible to say that separation could led to a disaster
( eg no common market could led to less economic growth)
2. Explain why is is also possible to say that separation was not a disaster but
a blessings in disguise (eg merger had led to problems of political rivalry,
communal politics and racial riots)
3. Make a judgement- was separation a disaster or a blessing?
Source-based question:
Source
A
: A
cartoon published in the Straits Times on
Why
do you think the artist drew this cartoon?
Explain your answer, referring to
details of the cartoon. [5m]
(Skills tested:
Making Inference and giving supporting details)
1. What does the words on the tyres represent?
2. How does the artist show that the leaders of the two countries have different
opinions about Malaya prosperity?
3. What do you think the artist is showing two leaders and a lorry to tell us
how he feels regarding merger?