Check out our tutor’s Alan’s experience with VCE Global Politics and how got a 46.
What score did you achieve in VCE Global Politics?
I achieved a raw study score of 46 in English in 2021.
How did you study for VCE Global Politics? What techniques did you use to study?
For me, studying Global Politics was all about thinking beyond what the teacher gave us. Think of the information in class as a foundation I made a habit of looking at articles, reports, and commentary outside of our provided materials.
However, I didn’t try to memorise every fact. Instead, I’d ask myself: What could I be asked about in this AOS or topic. Then I’d study and take notes on the parts that helped me answer those kinds of questions.
What is your advice for VCE Global Politics students for the SACs?
My SAC advice is that, especially for ‘analyse’ questions and essays, you need to go beyond surface-level explanations and come to a real conclusion about the significance of what you're discussing. For example, if you're analysing the effectiveness of a solution to a global crisis, don’t just state that a country hasn’t complied because “it’s bad for the economy.” Push deeper, explain why a government would make that choice, such as wanting to remain popular in electorates that rely on environmentally damaging industries.
What is your advice for VCE Global Politics students for the end of year exams?
When it comes to exams, while it’s ideal to complete every past question you can find, it’s probably not realistic. Instead, focus on making sure you understand the structure of each question type and the possible keywords that could be examined, and reassure yourself that you could answer any of them if needed.
A good strategy is to collect a wide range of past exam and practice questions, then take time to plan out responses, even if you don’t write everyone in full. Make sure you’re comfortable with the kinds of arguments you’d use, how you’d structure them, and what examples you’d draw on. That kind of preparation builds confidence and makes the actual exam feel far more manageable.
To this point, try to find examples that are flexible and can fit under many questions.
What resources did you use for VCE Global Politics?
This subject rewards depth and originality, so don’t just repeat the standard points your teacher gives you. Examiners read those types of answers over and over. To stand out, you need to offer something different.
One of the best ways to do this is to use resources that challenge your thinking or go beyond what was covered in class. Global Politics is full of grey areas and conflicting perspectives, that’s exactly what examiners want you to explore. Don’t be afraid to engage with sources that contradict each other or even your own assumptions.
Because Politics is such a broad subject, you can almost always find a real-world example to support your point, you just need to look for it. Try to avoid the most commonly used examples, and instead show that you’ve engaged with current issues and debates in a thoughtful and meaningful way. That’s how you separate yourself from the pack.
How did you balance study with the rest of your life during VCE?
My experience might have been a bit different since I graduated in 2021, during COVID. That made finding balance even more important. Year 12 is significant, but so are the other parts of your life – your friendships, sport, downtime, and passions. You shouldn’t have to give up who you are just for your ATAR.
One habit I’ve carried into university is time-limiting my study. For example, if I set a three-hour study limit for the night, I stop once I reach that, no matter what I get done. It’s a great way to beat procrastination because it creates a clear reward: once you’re done, you get to relax. It helped me stay motivated and focused.
Any other comments you would like to share?
Use how broad Global Politics is as a unit to our advantage. Try to distinguish yourself and show that you understand the real impact of these things that you are talking about.
