Also known as component 1, the Written Exam is based on a global issue related to one of the topics from the topic list.
The questions are based on source documents provided with the question paper. The sources provide background information and different perspectives about the global issue chosen for the exam. Sources may be taken from a variety of subject backgrounds and media, and may include images. The number of sources may vary from exam to exam.
For students taking their exam in 2024, here is the syllabus for Global perspectives.
Students taking their exam from 2025, a few things have changed in the syllabus especially regarding the marks distribution.
Here are the key differences between the two syllabus
The questions and mark distribution for exams starting 2025 is as below.
- Question 1 (18 marks) is a structured question based on several sources. There will be three or four parts to the question. Candidates are required to read the sources and analyse the information, arguments and perspectives presented about the global issue.
- Question 2 (16 marks) is a structured question based on a source that describes some research or evidence about the global issue. There will be two parts to the question. Candidates evaluate the research or evidence and suggest ways to research or test a claim related to the global issue.
- Question 3 (16 marks) is a question based on a source that presents different arguments about the global issue. Candidates answer by writing an extended response. Candidates are required to analyse and evaluate the arguments and make a reasoned judgement about the quality of the arguments.
- Question 4 (20 marks) is a question based on all sources in the insert. Candidates answer by writing an extended response. Candidates are required to assess actions in response to the global issue and explain their judgements with reasons and evidence.
In the Written Exam, candidates are assessed on the skills of research, analysis and evaluation. Candidates are not assessed on their prior knowledge and understanding of the topic or global issue presented in the source material.
Links to the most important topics in the written exam