Unlocking Success: Master the 2019 WASSCE Social Studies Questions and Answers

Introduction

The West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) is a pivotal milestone for students seeking higher education and career opportunities. Social Studies plays a crucial role in this assessment, testing candidates' understanding of history, government, and other social sciences. To empower you with confidence, we present a comprehensive guide to the 2019 WASSCE Social Studies questions and answers.

Understanding the Exam

The WASSCE Social Studies examination comprises two papers, each carrying 50 marks:

• Paper 1: Multiple choice (40 questions x 1 mark each)
• Paper 2: Essay (8 questions x 6 marks each)

Time Allocation:

• Paper 1: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Paper 2: 2 hours 30 minutes

Tips and Tricks to Ace the Questions

Before the Exam:

• Thoroughly study the WASSCE syllabus to grasp the scope of the examination.
• Regularly practice answering past papers under timed conditions.
• Attend preparatory workshops or consult with experienced teachers for guidance.
• Stay updated with current events and global issues to enhance your knowledge.

During the Exam:

• Manage your time wisely: Allocate sufficient time to each question.
• Read the questions carefully: Ensure you understand what is being asked.
• Structure your answers well: Use clear and concise language, providing specific examples and evidence.
• Support your arguments: Use facts, data, and credible sources to strengthen your claims.
• Proofread your work: Check for errors in spelling, grammar, and logic.

2019 WASSCE Social Studies Questions and Answers

Paper 1: Multiple Choice

Section A: History

1. Which of the following was a major factor that contributed to the partition of Africa?
   (a) The Berlin Conference
   (b) The Industrial Revolution
   (c) The abolition of the slave trade
   (d) The rise of nationalism in Europe

Section B: Government

2. What is the primary function of the executive arm of government?
   (a) To make laws
   (b) To implement laws
   (c) To interpret laws
   (d) To check the power of other branches

Section C: General Paper

3. Which of the following is a key challenge facing developing countries?
   (a) Food shortage
   (b) Poverty
   (c) Illiteracy
   (d) All of the above

Paper 2: Essay

Question 1:

Discuss the causes and consequences of the American Civil War.

Question 2:

Explain the role of the United Nations in maintaining international peace and security.

Question 3:

Analyze the factors that contribute to social inequality in your country.

Effective Strategies for Improvement

Active Recall:

Instead of passively reviewing notes, actively recall information by testing yourself regularly. This forces your brain to retrieve knowledge, improving your memory and understanding.

Concept Mapping:

Create visual diagrams that connect key concepts and ideas related to the subject matter. This helps you organize your thoughts and identify relationships between different topics.

Peer Study Groups:

Collaborate with other students to discuss the material, share ideas, and clarify concepts. Peer interaction can enhance your learning and foster different perspectives.

Time Management:

Develop a realistic study schedule and stick to it. Break down large topics into smaller chunks and allocate time for each section. This prevents procrastination and ensures you cover all the necessary material.

Why Social Studies Matters

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving:

Social Studies develops critical thinking skills by teaching you how to analyze information, identify biases, and make informed decisions based on evidence. These skills are essential for success in higher education and the workforce.

Understanding the World:

Social Studies provides a comprehensive understanding of the world around us, including the history of different cultures, the structure of governments, and the challenges facing societies. This knowledge empowers you to participate in meaningful discussions and make informed choices as a global citizen.

Career Opportunities:

A strong foundation in Social Studies opens doors to various career opportunities, such as:

• Law
• Politics
• Diplomacy
• International Relations
• Journalism
• Research

Conclusion

Mastering the WASSCE 2019 Social Studies questions and answers is crucial for achieving success in the examination. By implementing the strategies and tips outlined in this guide, you can build a solid understanding of the subject matter, develop essential skills, and boost your confidence for the big day. Remember, the key to success lies in consistent effort and a positive mindset. Embrace the challenge and strive for excellence!

Additional Resources

• WASSCE Official Website
• Specimen Papers and Marking Schemes
• List of Approved Textbooks

Tables