If you’re tackling the IB Economics Paper 2, you’ve probably realized one thing: Part (g) can be a bit of a beast. It’s where you need to flex your critical thinking skills, show off your evaluation chops, and, most importantly, impress the examiner. But don’t worry—you’re in the right place. Welcome to the Ultimate Guide on how to master Part (g) essays and make them your secret weapon.
This guide will walk you through EconPrep’s 7-step framework, complete with practical tips, common pitfalls to avoid, and real-world examples to bring your essays to life. Let’s dive in!
What is IB Economics Paper 2 Part (g)?
The Purpose of Part (g)
Part (g) is the evaluation section of your IB Economics Paper 2 essay. Think of it as your chance to go beyond just explaining economic theories. Here, you’ll critically analyze, weigh different perspectives, and make a well-reasoned argument. It’s where you get to shine as a thoughtful economist.
Key Assessment Objectives
To ace Part (g), you’ll need to:
- Show balance: Evaluate arguments from multiple angles.
- Be critical: Don’t just state the theory; challenge assumptions and discuss real-world implications.
- Make a reasoned argument: Wrap everything up with a conclusion supported by evidence.
Command Terms in Part (g)
Pay close attention to the command terms in the question. Here are a few you’ll encounter:
- Evaluate: Weigh pros and cons, then provide a judgment.
- Discuss: Present a balanced view, considering different arguments.
- To what extent: Argue for and against, then decide how far you agree.
EconPrep Framework for Writing Winning Part (g) Essays
This is where the magic happens. Follow these 7 steps to structure your Part (g) essay like a pro.
Step 1: Ask Before Writing
Before you even put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard), ask yourself:
- What are the keywords in the question? Highlight terms like “evaluate,” “impact,” or specific economic concepts.
- What is the question asking in my own words? Rephrasing helps you focus and ensures you don’t miss the point.
Example: If the question is, “Evaluate the impact of subsidies on market outcomes,” you might rephrase it as, “Do subsidies improve markets or create inefficiencies?”
Step 2: Identify Relevant Economic Concepts
Link the question to specific economic theories or models. Think about:
- Demand and supply.
- Market structures (e.g., perfect competition vs. monopoly).
- Government policies (e.g., subsidies, taxes).
Example: For a question on subsidies, you might discuss:
- How subsidies affect producer and consumer surplus.
- The potential for government failure.
Step 3: Write a Clear Introduction
Your introduction is your thesis statement. It should:
- Briefly answer the question.
- Mention the key concepts you’ll explore.
Example: “Subsidies can improve market outcomes by reducing costs for producers and benefiting consumers. However, they may also lead to inefficiencies, such as overproduction and higher government spending.”
Step 4: Define Keywords
Clear definitions set the foundation for your essay. Define any terms from the question, like “subsidy” or “market outcomes.”
Example: “A subsidy is a financial assistance provided by the government to reduce production costs and encourage output.”
Steps 5a-5d: Develop Your Body Paragraphs
Now, get into the meat of your essay. Each paragraph should:
- Explain a relevant theory or concept.
- Combine data from the text with your knowledge.
- Include diagrams if they add value.
Body Paragraph 1: Positive Effects
- Explain how subsidies reduce production costs and increase supply.
- Use a diagram to show the impact on equilibrium price and quantity.
- Include real-world examples (e.g., agricultural subsidies in the EU).
Body Paragraph 2: Negative Effects
- Discuss inefficiencies, such as overproduction or resource misallocation.
- Highlight the opportunity cost of government spending.
- Include a counterexample (e.g., subsidies leading to market distortions in the energy sector).
Body Paragraph 3: Stakeholder Impacts
- Evaluate the effects on different stakeholders: consumers, producers, and the government.
- Use data or case studies to support your analysis.
Body Paragraph 4 (Optional): Long-Term Implications
- Explore long-term effects, like dependency on subsidies or environmental impacts.
Step 6: Write the Evaluation
This is the heart of Part (g). Use the CLASPP framework:
- Conclusion: Summarize the main points.
- Long-term vs. Short-term: Discuss time horizons.
- Assumptions: Challenge key assumptions in the theory.
- Stakeholders: Analyze impacts on different groups.
- Priorities: Consider trade-offs or conflicting goals.
- Pros and Cons: Provide a balanced view.
Example: “While subsidies can improve affordability for consumers, they may also lead to inefficient resource allocation. In the long term, governments need to balance economic growth with fiscal responsibility.”
Step 7: Conclude Effectively
Wrap up with:
- A brief summary of your main arguments.
- A reasoned judgment, based on evidence.
Example: “Subsidies have both benefits and drawbacks. While they support producers and lower prices for consumers, governments must address inefficiencies and ensure sustainable spending.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Part (g)
- Skipping the evaluation: Always weigh arguments and provide a judgment.
- Overloading with irrelevant theories: Stay focused on the question.
- Misusing diagrams: Only include them if they enhance your argument.
- Confusing evaluation with explanation: Remember, evaluation is about analyzing and judging.
Practical Tips to Perfect Your Part (g)
- Practice past papers: Get familiar with different types of questions.
- Deconstruct questions: Break them down to understand what’s being asked.
- Apply CLASPP regularly: Make it a habit in your practice essays.
- Get feedback: Have someone review your essays to spot areas for improvement.
Key Takeaway
Part (g) doesn’t have to be intimidating. With EconPrep’s 7-step framework, you can tackle it systematically and confidently. Remember, evaluation is all about balance, depth, and clear reasoning. Practice regularly, and you’ll see improvement in no time.
Call to Action
- Need help mastering Part (g)? Book a trial tutoring session with EconPrep for personalized guidance and expert feedback. [Click here to learn more!]
- Ready to level up your essays? Download our free Part (g) checklist and start writing like a pro. [Get your checklist now!]
That’s it! You’re now equipped to write winning Part (g) essays. Keep practicing, stay curious, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Happy studying!
