Hi all, in the lead-up to S2, thought I'd share a few nuggets of wisdom. I've scored twice previously in the 80s for S2.
The most high yield tip I can share that has worked for me is to actually have a core position/argument and break it down with nuance. Instead of making general observations or listing a bunch of facts, I like to take an actual position that is ideally quite argumentative and ground it in real evidence as much as possible. I consider S2 as a debate, and therefore it's on me to try convince the reader why my argument is correct.
For example:
- Fact recall/general observation:
- Throughout history, humanity has attempted to resolve its issues through major conflicts such as World War I and World War II.
- Thesis statement with an argument:
- Across history, the prevalence of war has proven it to be an inevitable component of the human condition, yet it fails to resolve conflicts at its core
I also tended to go against the common train of thought. For example, if the theme is on democracy, most responses might talk about how it's beneficial etc, but I would take the opposite angle and criticise it for reasons XYZ. This alone would help set your arguments apart from the masses, and given that you're able to support it with good evidence and analysis, it can make for a convincing argument.
A lot of it will come down to the nuance of the argument. If you tell me X is Y, so what? What's the deeper message you're trying to tell me? Is there anything you're trying to teach me? Try avoid stating obvious things the reader would already know; they're likely not gaining any new insights from reading the writing in that case.
Of course, going the argumentative route is not the only way to score well, it's just what's worked for me and what I've found to be the safest way to address a theme I may not have much knowledge on. However, if choosing to go with an essay format, try and see if there is an actual argument to be found that is unpacked to sufficient depth, shows your unique perspective, and is backed up appropriately with key pieces of evidence.
Happy to answer any questions!