GAMSAT Essay Writing Lecture

Presenter: Kate Robson

Introduction

• High demand for GAMSAT essay writing content.
• Focus on Section 2, where Kate scored 80.
• Plans to create a two-part video series on Task A (sociopolitical issues) and Task B (personal issues).

Overview of GAMSAT

• A test for medical school entry in Australia.
• Consists of three sections, Kate focuses on Section 2:
  • Task A: Sociopolitical issues (class, race, power, history, science).
  • Task B: Personal issues (growth, identity).
• Kate's essays scored over 80, putting her in the top 1%.

Task A Essay Guidance

• Topic Example: Violence and its antidotes.
• Essay Structure: Argumentative style with intro, body, body, conclusion.
• Approach: Analyze all prompts for underlying themes.

Writing Approach

• Use of an argumentative essay style for Task A:
  • Intro, Body, Body, Conclusion.
  • Two body paragraphs to include counterarguments.
• Example use: Kate's essay on violence scored 85.

Essay Tone and Style

• Tone: Formal with slightly informal elements.
• Use of rhetorical questions and punchy sentences.
• Balance between formal and informal tone.

Essay Structure

Introduction

• Structure: Hook, context, thesis, limitations.
• Example prompt: Conflict between victims and executioners.
• Thesis: Violence perpetuated; thinkers should act with empathy.

Body Paragraphs

• Structure: Point, example, explanation, counterargument, reconfirm argument, link.
• Example Topics:
  1. Cycle of violence in society.
  2. Empathy as a solution to violence.
• Use of historical and personal examples (e.g., Martin Luther King Jr.).

Conclusion

• Structure: Point, explain, limitations, importance, call to action.
• Importance of empathy, rationality, and peaceful reform.

Key Tips

• Integrate personal beliefs and perspectives.
• Use examples that resonate personally and reflect societal issues.
• Signpost arguments clearly.
• Acknowledge and refute counterarguments with empathy.

Additional Content

• Encouragement to view the video series.
• Discussion on how personal style can enhance essay writing for GAMSAT.

Closing

• Reminder to watch upcoming Task B essay video.