General Paper at RJC

General Paper is compulsory for all Junior College students. It is primarily a test of English language, but the course also aims to help students acquire a general knowledge of world affairs including questions of human values, often taking an historical or comparative approach. Beyond the requirements of the written examination, the RJC GP course encourages wide reading and an awareness of national and international issues. Oral skills are developed to help students acquire greater poise and confidence in public speaking and interviews.

Approaches to the General Paper

The course is theme-based (see JC 1 and JC 2 courses). There are a variety of teaching approaches:

• group and whole-class discussions
• presentations on books or topics
• debates
• talks by speakers from outside the college
• watching videos and DVDs
• written work

In the classroom, lessons are often informal and students are given ample opportunities to share their views and speak their mind. In fact, student participation is emphasized through presentations and debates. Through these activities, the students become more attuned to current trends and happenings. Thus, students are equipped not only to deal with the GP paper, but also to formulate their own opinions on matters of individual, national and international importance.

You may like to go on to the examination format and grading of General Paper.