What this lesson teaches
I can explain how transport, digital technology and multinational corporations work together to drive globalisation.
Syllabus K230, Issue 3, Guiding Question 1. Driving forces of globalisation
Make a guess
A G3 student ends Question 7 with 'Both factors are equally important.' Do you think this reaches Level 4?
- No, Level 4 must judge which matters more.
- Yes, as long as both factors were explained earlier.
- Yes, because a balanced view shows good judgement.
Show the answer
No, Level 4 must judge which matters more.
Weigh the factors using a basis, such as which affects more people or makes the other possible.
Explain both factors with examples. For G3, then judge which matters more and give a clear basis for the judgement.
Question 7 is worth 8 marks. G2 asks you to explain two factors, such as "Explain how transport and digital technology drive globalisation." G3 asks "Do you think X is more important than Y? Explain your answer."
Levels 1 to 3 are the same for both: describe the topic, then describe the factors, then explain each one with a specific example and its outcome. Level 3 can reach 7 marks.
For G3, the eighth mark needs Level 4: a reasoned comparison. Say which factor matters more, and give a basis for comparing, such as which affects more people, which lasts longer, which makes the other possible, or which fits Singapore's situation better. Then explain the limit of your judgement.
A conclusion that only repeats both points ("both are important") does not reach Level 4. You must weigh them.
- L4 bases
- Scope (who is affected), duration (how long), dependence (which enables the other), fit (Singapore's situation).
Worked example: Writing the L4 weighing
Question: Do you think developments in digital technology are more important than developments in transportation in driving globalisation?
- Judgement: "I think digital technology is more important."
- Basis: "My reason is its reach. It moves ideas, services and money instantly, and it now organises transport itself."
- Limit: "Transport still matters for goods: an online order is useless if the parcel cannot be delivered."
- Conclusion: "So digital technology has the wider effect, while transport stays essential for trade in goods."
Watch out for this
"Both factors are equally important" is a safe Level 4 conclusion.
Level 4 needs weighing. If you judge them equal, show why on a clear basis, such as each mattering in a different situation.
Check your understanding
Which conclusion reaches Level 4 on a G3 Question 7?
- X matters more because its effect lasts longer, though Y helps more at first.
- X is more important than Y because X is clearly the bigger factor here.
- Both X and Y are important factors in this issue.
Show the answer
X matters more because its effect lasts longer, though Y helps more at first.
Right. It judges, gives a basis and notes a limit.