GAMSAT Section 2
The GAMSAT Section 2 - Write High Scoring Essays
Contents:
Key steps to prepare for GAMSAT Section 2
GAMSAT Section 2, also known as the Written Communication section, requires you to write two essays within 60 minutes. The essays will address two sets of quotes or prompts related to a common theme, with one essay focusing on a personal and reflective response (Task A) and the other on a more analytical and argumentative response (Task B).
Here we examine some key steps to success in your Gamsat essays:
By following these steps and dedicating time to consistent practice, you will be well-prepared for Section 2.
A Good Essay Structure Paragraph By Paragraph
A good GAMSAT section 2 essay structure typically consists of an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Below we give an example essay structure step by step. There are other possible structures you could use, this is by no means the only one, however this will stand you in good stead:
1. Introduction
a. Hook: Begin with an engaging opening sentence that captures the reader's attention. This could be a thought-provoking statement, a rhetorical question, or an interesting fact related to the essay topic.
b. Context: Provide some background information or context to help the reader understand the topic or issue you'll be discussing.
c. Thesis statement: Present a clear and concise thesis statement that outlines the main argument or point you'll be making in the essay. This statement should serve as a roadmap for the reader and guide your essay's overall structure.
2. Body Paragraphs
a. Topic sentence: Start each body paragraph with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea or point you'll discuss in that paragraph.
b. Evidence and explanation: Provide evidence to support your topic sentence, such as examples, facts, statistics, or quotes from relevant sources. Explain how this evidence supports your argument and connects back to your thesis statement.
c. Analysis: Analyze the evidence and explain its significance in relation to your overall argument. This may involve discussing any limitations, implications, or contrasting perspectives.
d. Transition: Conclude each body paragraph with a sentence that smoothly transitions to the next paragraph, maintaining the flow of your essay.
3. Conclusion
a. Restate thesis: Begin your conclusion by restating your thesis statement in different words to remind the reader of your main argument.
b. Summarize main points: Briefly recap the main points or arguments you presented in your body paragraphs. This helps reinforce your overall argument and brings a sense of closure to the essay.
c. Final thoughts: End your essay with a final thought or statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader. This could be a call to action, a suggestion for future research, or a thought-provoking question related to your essay topic.
Remember, a well-structured essay is crucial for presenting your ideas clearly and effectively. By adhering to this structure and ensuring each section serves its purpose, you will create a coherent and persuasive essay.
Typed Or Handwritten?
Although in the past Gamsat essays were handwritten at the current time they are typed on a computer so if your typing speed is not very good be sure to improve before the test.
When you register for the test ACER provides you with a simulated test area in your student account where you can see how the ACER word processor works and what tools are available to you. You should familiarise yourself with this before the test.
Should I address just one quote or more?
The ACER GAMSAT section 2 instructions say you should base your essay on "one or more" of the quotes so this is a matter of preference and you should make your choice based on what will make for a better essay.
However using just one quote may limit your options whereas extracting a general theme from the quotes may widen your options as to what to write your essay on.
Unless your essay is completely unrelated to the quotes in any way whatsoever you are unlikely to be penalised for not addressing them.
Past GAMSAT Section 2 Essay Topics
Task A typically focuses on personal, social, and ethical issues, asking candidates to reflect on their own experiences, beliefs, and values. Some common themes for Task A include:
Love and relationships
Education and learning
Identity and self-discovery
Family and upbringing
Culture and tradition
Equality and justice
Success and ambition
Freedom and responsibility
Happiness and well-being
Task B usually addresses broader societal, political, and philosophical issues, requiring candidates to analyze and argue different viewpoints. Some common themes for Task B include:
Globalization and its consequences
Technology and its impact on society
Climate change and environmental issues
Democracy and politics
Poverty and social inequality
War and conflict
Media and its influence
Science, religion, and spirituality
Human rights and social justice
Health and public policy
Keep in mind that the specific topics within these themes may vary, and the quotes or prompts provided may offer unique perspectives or angles to consider. The best way to prepare for GAMSAT Section 2 is to familiarize yourself with a wide range of topics, practice your essay-writing skills, and develop your critical thinking abilities.
Tips For A Higher Score
Here are some additional tips to help you excel in GAMSAT Section 2:
1. Understand the prompts: Carefully read and analyze the given prompts or quotes. Make sure you understand their meanings and implications before you start writing. This will help you develop a relevant and focused response.
2. Plan your essay: Before you begin writing, take a few minutes to outline your essay. Jot down your main ideas, the evidence you want to use, and the order in which you want to present your arguments. Having a clear plan will make it easier to write a well-structured and coherent essay.
3. Be concise and clear: Write clearly and concisely, avoiding unnecessary jargon or overly complex language. Your goal is to communicate your ideas effectively and persuasively, so strive for clarity in your writing.
4. Vary sentence structure: Use a variety of sentence structures to make your writing more engaging and dynamic. Mix shorter, simpler sentences with longer, more complex ones to create a natural flow and rhythm in your essay.
5. Maintain a balanced and objective tone: While you're expected to present your perspective in your essays, avoid being overly emotional or biased. Maintain a balanced and objective tone to create a more persuasive and credible argument.
6. Address counterarguments: Addressing counterarguments or opposing viewpoints demonstrates your ability to think critically and consider different perspectives. This can help strengthen your overall argument and make your essay more persuasive.
7. Proofread and edit: Reserve a few minutes at the end of the exam to proofread and edit your essays. Check for any grammatical errors, unclear sentences, or awkward phrasings, and make necessary revisions to improve the overall quality of your writing.
8. Practice under timed conditions: To get comfortable with the time constraints of Section 2, practice writing essays under timed conditions. This will help you develop effective time management strategies and improve your ability to write high-quality essays within the allotted time.
9. Seek feedback: Share your practice essays with tutors, peers, or mentors and ask for constructive feedback. This can help you identify areas for improvement and refine your writing skills.
10. Stay calm and confident: During the exam, try to remain calm and confident in your abilities. Anxiety can negatively impact your performance, so take deep breaths and remind yourself of your preparation and hard work.
By implementing these tips and consistently practicing your essay-writing skills, you'll be well-prepared for GAMSAT Section 2.
GAMSAT Section 2 Practice Questions
Task A
Here are four quotes centered around the theme of personal growth and self-discovery for Task A:
These quotes can serve as the basis for a GAMSAT Section 2 Task A practice essay, where you can explore various aspects of personal growth, self-discovery, and the journey towards self-awareness. Focus on the personal, social, and ethical implications of these quotes as you develop your essay.
Here are four quotes centered around the theme of courage and overcoming adversity for Task A:
Here are four quotes centered around the theme of compassion and empathy for Task A:
Task B
Here are four quotes centered around the theme of technology and its impact on society for Task B:
These quotes can serve as the foundation for a GAMSAT Section 2 Task B practice essay, where you can explore various aspects of technology, its influence on society, and the potential consequences of its rapid development. Focus on the broader societal, political, and philosophical implications of these quotes as you develop your essay.
Here are four quotes centered around the theme of equality and social justice for Task B:
Here are four quotes centered around the theme of environmental responsibility and sustainability for Task B:
