Bmss sec4 exp_ss_prelim_2010_mark_scheme

Bukit Merah Secondary School
Preliminary Examination 2010
Secondary Four Express/5 Normal (A)
Combined Humanities
Paper 1
Social Studies 2192/01

Marking Scheme

1 (a) Study Source A.

Why did the cartoonist draw this cartoon?
Explain your answer. [6]

Level Descriptors Marks
1 Answers based on provenance/describes the source 1

e.g. The cartoonist wants to show that the Sri Lankan army is
murdering Tamil civilians.

The cartoonist wants to show that the Tamils are appealing to the
world to help them but to no avail.

2 Answer(s) based on inference, unsupported 2-3

Award 2m for 1 inference, unsupported
Award 3m for more than 1 inference, unsupported

e.g. The cartoonist wants to show that the Sri Lankan
government/army is treating the Tamils in a cruel manner.
e.g. The cartoonist wants to show that the Tamil civilians are
suffering and are appealing for help but the rest of the world has
ignored their plight.

3 Answer(s) based on inference, supported 3-4
Award 3m for 1inference, supported; Award 5 marks for another
inference supported

e.g. The cartoonist wants to show that the Sri Lankan
army/government are killing innocent Tamil civilians. Source A
shows a Sri Lankan soldier attacking an innocent Tamil woman.
The Sri Lankan soldier represents the Sri Lankan
army/government.

1

e.g. The cartoonist wants to show that the Tamil civilians who are
being murdered and are suffering in the hands of the Sri Lankan
army/government are appealing for help but the rest of the world
has ignored their plight. This is shown in the cartoon where a
Tamil woman is attacked by a Sri Lankan soldier and she is
appealing for help but the man (the World) is sleeping soundly.

4 Answers based on purpose 5-6

L3 + Purpose
(Award 5 marks if the answer falls short of the intended outcome
and 6 marks if there is impact (intention), target audience and
intended outcome)

e.g. The cartoonist wants to persuade his readers to appeal to
their political leaders to pressurise the Sri Lankan government to
stop the killing of innocent Tamil civilians.

(b) Study Sources B and C.

How similar are these two sources? Explain your answer. [7]


1 Similarity in source type AND/OR provenance 1
Award 1 mark for similarity OR difference in source type AND/OR
provenance.

e.g. Source B is a comment made by the political head of the
LTTE while Source C is a comment made by the Sri Lankan
Prime Minister.

2 Answer based on content - similarity or difference, without 2
support
Award 2 marks for 1 similarity or difference.

e.g. Both sources are similar in showing that the international
community wants a ceasefire.

OR
e.g. Both sources differ about the way to resolve the ethnic
conflict.

2

3 Similarity AND Difference in content, unsupported 3

Award 3 marks for 1 similarity OR difference surfaced and an
additional mark for another similarity OR difference.

e.g. Both sources are similar in showing that the international
community wants a ceasefire.

AND

e.g. Both sources differ about the way to resolve the ethnic
conflict.

4 Similarity OR Difference in content, supported 4

Both sources are similar in showing that the international
community wants a ceasefire. Source B says “… the calls for a
ceasefire issued by the international community” and Source C
says “Though pressure is exerted in various ways by the
international countries the government will not stop the war on the
Tigers…” In other words the international community want the
government forces and the Tamil Tigers to agree to a ceasefire.

OR

e.g. Both sources differ about the way in resolving the ethnic
conflict. Source B says “The LTTE desires that this effort for a
ceasefire to grow further into peace talks to seek a political
solution to the ethnic conflict.” However, Source C says “the
government will not stop the war on the Tigers until they are
defeated”. In other words the Sri Lankan government is going for
a military solution to the conflict.

5 Similarity AND Difference in content, supported 5

Both sources are similar in showing that the international
community wants a ceasefire. Source B says “… the calls for a
ceasefire issued by the international community” and Source C
says “Though pressure is exerted in various ways by the
international countries the government will not stop the war on the
Tigers…” In other words the international community want the
government forces and the Tamil Tigers to agree to a ceasefire.

AND
e.g. Both sources differ about the way in resolving the ethnic
conflict. Source B says “The LTTE desires that this effort for a
ceasefire to grow further into peace talks to seek a political
solution to the ethnic conflict.” However, Source C says “the
government will not stop the war on the Tigers until they are
defeated”. In other words the Sri Lankan government is going for
a military solution to the conflict.

3

6 Answer based on purpose 6-7
Award 6 marks if the answer falls short of the intended outcome
and 7 marks if there is impact(intention), target audience and
intended outcome.
e.g. Both sources differ in their purpose. Source B is trying the
influence the people around the world that the Tamil Tigers is
willing to go for a ceasefire and are ready for peaceful talks so
that the people would support the LTTE and criticise the Sri
Lankan government.

On the other hand, Source C is reassuring the people in the world
that the government forces are able to defeat the LTTE and there
is no necessity for talks so that the people would support the
government against a terrorist organisation.

(c) Study Source D.

How useful is Source D in what it says about the conflict in
Sri Lanka? Explain your answer. [6]


1 Useful /Not Useful, Answers based on provenance 1

Award 1 mark for 1 detail.

e.g. Yes, Source D is useful because it is a statement issued by
the Sri Lankan Government official on the conflict in Sri Lanka.

e.g. No, Source D is not useful because it is a statement issued
by the Sri Lankan Government official on the conflict in Sri Lanka.
I do not trust what the official says because as a government
official he will say good things about the activities of the
government.

2 Useful /Not Useful, Answers based on Source Content 2-3
Award 2 marks for 1 explanation. Award an additional mark for
further explanation

Source D says that the government wants to end the conflict by
defeating the Tamil Tigers in the battle field. Source D says “the
government is determined to deal with the terrorism of LTTE.”

OR

e.g. No, Source D is not useful because it says that 54% of the
Tamils are living peacefully with the Sinhalese. It also says that
the well-being of the Tamil civilians is of utmost importance to the
Sri Lankan government.

4

3 Both elements of L2 i.e. Useful AND Not Useful based on 3-4
Source Content, no cross-reference


AND
Sri Lankan government.

4 Useful OR Not Useful, supported by cross-reference. 4
Award 4 marks for an answer based on source content with
Cross-reference to another Source or Background Information.
OR
Award 4 marks for a limitation of the source with Cross-reference
to another Source or Background Information.
Source C supports the view that the Sri Lankan government is
determined to defeat the Tamil Tigers through an armed conflict.
Source C says “the government will not stop the war on the
Tigers until they are defeated.”

OR
Sri Lankan government. Source A challenges this view. It says
that Tamil civilians are murdered by the Sri Lankan government
forces. In the cartoon, the Tamil woman (represents the Tamils) is
attacked by a Sri Lankan soldier (represents Sri Lankan
government). The government is not bothered about the well-
being of the Tamils. Source E challenges what Source D says
about caring for the Tamils. Source E says that the Sri Lankan is
not bothered about the future of the Tamils. Source E says “The
Sri Lankan government has initiated no political reforms to
address the concerns of Tamils and other minorities.”

5

5 Useful AND Not Useful, supported by cross-reference. 4-6
Award 5 marks for both elements and 6 marks for a further cross-
reference to background information or other sources either side.

Source C supports the view that the Sri Lankan government is
determined to defeat the Tamil Tigers through an armed conflict.
Source C says “the government will not stop the war on the
Tigers until they are defeated.”

OR
Sri Lankan government. Source A challenges this view. It says
that Tamil civilians are murdered by the Sri Lankan government
forces. In the cartoon, the Tamil woman (represents the Tamils) is
attacked by a Sri Lankan soldier (represents Sri Lankan
government). The government is not bothered about the well-
being of the Tamils. Source E challenges what Source D says
about caring for the Tamils. Source E says that the Sri Lankan is
not bothered about the future of the Tamils. Source E says “The
Sri Lankan government has initiated no political reforms to
address the concerns of Tamils and other minorities.”

(d) Study Source E.

Do you believe what Source E says about life in Sri Lanka
after the civil war? Explain your answer. [6]

Leve Descriptors Marks
l

1 Uncritical Acceptance based on provenance or source 1
Award 1 mark for 1 detail.

e.g. Yes, I believe what Source E says about life in Sri Lanka after
the civil war because it is from an international organisation.

2 Answers based on Provenance AND/OR Typicality 2-3
Award 2 marks for 1 explanation to a maximum of 3 marks
e.g. No, I do not believe Source D as it is the viewpoint of an
international organisation which is exaggerating conditions in Sri
Lanka. Therefore, it is not reliable. (i.e. biased)
e.g. Yes, I believe what Source E says because it is from a
neutral organization, the International Crisis Group, whose main
task is to ensure that conflicts are kept to a minimum and that

6

resolutions are carried out to ensure peace. It has no affiliation to
Sri Lanka hence the report would be fair and would state the
actual goings-on in the country.

3 Answer(s) based on the Source 3
Award 2 marks for one reference supported and another mark for
another reference supported.

Yes, I believe what Source E says as it reported that life for the
Sri Lankan Tamils has not returned to normal. The Sri Lankan
government was still ignoring the welfare and political rights of the
minority groups. Moreover, the Tamils were still dissatisfied over
the lack of justice for the civilians who were killed during the
conflict. In addition, many of the Tamils were willing to take up
arms again and resume violence in order to achieve their aims.

4 Answers based on Source plus cross-reference to other 5-6
sources/Background Information to confirm OR challenge
what Source E says

Award 3 marks for finding support from one source and 4 marks
for finding support from at least 2 sources and 5 marks for finding
support from 3 sources and award another mark for bringing
support from contextual knowledge to confirm or challenge what
Source E says.

Yes, I believe what Source E says as it reported that life for the Sri
Lankan Tamils has not returned to normal. The Sri Lankan
government was still ignoring the welfare and political rights of the
minority groups.

Source A supports what Source E says about the callous attitude
of the Sri Lankan government towards the Tamil civilians. Source
A points out that the civilians are still suffering in the hands of the
Sri Lankan army.

Source E also shows that the situation in Sri Lanka is still tense
after the civil war. It shows the continued tension and resentment
by the Tamils against the Sri Lankan government and the
possibility of another uprising. Source E says, “Inside and outside
Sri Lanka, many Tamils remain angry at the lack of accounting or
justice for the thousands of civilians killed in the final months of
the war. Most of the million-strong Tamils are still committed to a
separate state and many would be willing to support renewed
violence.”
This view is supported by the Background Information which says
“thousands of Sri Lankan Tamils are held as prisoners and live
behind barbed-wired camps. They have no clean drinking water
nor electricity. There have been allegations that the Sri Lankan
government is moving Sinhalese to take over Tamil lands and
homes. The Sri Lankan government has refused international
organisations to inspect the Tamil areas.”

7

OR

No, I do not believe Source E because the International Crisis
Group may not be based in Sri Lanka and may therefore not be
aware of the day-to-day happenings. They may not know whether
there has been any political progress and social development as
well as welfare improvements made. The observations that were
made before the report was written may have changed after the
conflict had ended. Thus if no follow-ups were subsequently
made, the report would be outdated and hence, unreliable.

This view is supported by Source C which shows that the leaders
of the LTTE and the government were in the process of forming
an agreement that would benefit everyone, resolve the differences
and ensure that peace can be attained. Source D also says that
the government will provide a conducive environment for Tamil
civilians to live once the war against the LTTE was over. Source D
says, “further space can be created for a peaceful political
process to take place and which is aimed at healing the wounds
caused by the conflict. The well being of civilians remains the
foremost consideration of the Sri Lankan government and its
armed forces.”

Section B (Structured-Essay Questions)

Answer one question.

2 Governance in Singapore

(a) How far do you agree that the Area Licensing Scheme(ALS) been
successful in managing traffic flow in Singapore?
Explain your answer. [12]


1 Writes about Area Licensing Scheme but without 1-2
Focus/reference to the question.
Award 1 mark for writing in general about the ALS without
answering the question.
Award 1 additional mark for further details provided.

E.g. The ALS made congestion outside the CBD worse as many
motorist decided to take passengers just to avoid paying ERP.

2 Describes given factor or/ and Identifies/Describes other 3-4
factor(s).
Award 3 marks for describing the given/other factor

8

E.g. The ALS was designed to manage traffic flow by charging
motorists a fee for using certain roads at certain times(usually
peak hour) of the day. Most of these roads were located in the
city areas. These roads were bounded within areas designated as
Restricted Zones.

E.g. In 1988, the Electronic Road Pricing(ERP) system replaced
the ALS as there was room for improvement. As technology
improved, there were more efficient ways of monitoring and
regulating traffic made available. The use of up to date
technology would enable the transport system to stay relevant
with the times.

E.g. The Vehicle Quota System(VQS) is a system imposed by
the LTA to regulate the number of cars in Singapore. The LTA
determines the number of new vehicles allowed for registration. It
was decided that one of the ways to administer the VQS was
through the COE system. Under the system, a specific number of
cars are issued based on the quota set by LTA. The factors
affecting the number of vehicles included the number of vehicles
which were de-registered and the state of the economy. In this
way, there is a limit of new cars that can be purchased. Car
buyers must first bid for the COE before they can purchase a car.

3 Explains given factor or other factor(s). 5-6
Award 4 marks for a weakly explained factor.
Award 5 marks for a fairly well explained factor.
Award 6 marks for a well-explained factor.

E.g. The ALS was designed to manage traffic flow by charging
motorists a fee for using certain roads at certain times(usually
peak hour) of the day. Most of these roads were located in the
city areas. These roads were bounded within areas designated as
Restricted Zones. The Area Licensing Scheme was effective in
managing traffic flow because when it was introduced, the
number of cars entering the CBD dropped from 32,500 to 7,700
vehicles. This could be due to many motorists being deterred
from entering the CBD due to its cost of entry. It could also be
those motorists who did not really need to be in the CBD now
decided not to enter the area. The ALS was supplemented by the
Park and Ride Scheme where motorists were encouraged to park
their vehicles in car parks located just outside the CBD boundary
and entered the CBD via public transport. This would ensure that
fewer cars would enter the CBD.

E.g. In 1988, the Electronic Road Pricing(ERP) system replaced
the ALS as there was room for improvement. As technology
improved, there were more efficient ways of monitoring and
regulating traffic made available. The use of up to date
technology would enable the transport system to stay relevant
with the times. The ERP helped reduce traffic flow because it
extended the ‘reach’ of the ALS by erecting gantries on roads and
highways(e.g. PIE) outside the CBD which experienced heavy

9

traffic. Thus the ERP was able to manage traffic flow more
effectively than the ALS because it covered more traffic jam-
prone areas.

E.g. The Vehicle Quota System(VQS) is a system imposed by
the LTA to regulate the number of cars in Singapore. The LTA
determines the number of new vehicles allowed for registration. It
was decided that one of the ways to administer the VQS was
through the COE system. Under the system, a specific number of
cars are issued based on the quota set by LTA. The factors
affecting the number of vehicles included the number of vehicles
which were de-registered and the state of the economy. In this
way, there is a limit of new cars that can be purchased. Car
buyers must first bid for the COE before they can purchase a car.
Traffic flow is managed because the VQS/COE affects the
number of cars on the road. With fewer cars on the road, there
will be a lowered incidence of traffic jams. This happens because
the VQS restricts car ownership by controlling supply and hence
making it more expensive. Consequently, only motorists who
really need to use cars or can afford it will purchase cars.

4 Explains given factor and identifies/describes other factor(s). 7
Award 7 marks for explanation of given factor and identification of
other factor(s).

E.g. L3+ There are also alternative factors that can manage traffic
flow such as the ERP and the VQS.

5 Both Aspects of L3. 8-10
Award 8 marks for explanation of given factor and 1 other factor
explained.
Award 9 marks for explanation of given factor and 2 other factors
explained.

10

6 L5+ Discusses the relative importance of the different 11-12
factors.
Award 11 marks for weighing relative importance of given factor
with one other factor.
Award 12 marks for weighing relative importance of given factor
with two other factors.

E.g. The VQS is the most successful way in managing traffic flow
because it controls the supply of cars in Singapore. The other
factors (ALS/ERP) merely target car usage. Controlling car usage
is less effective because than restricting car supply because
many motorists might be able to pay the ERP charges. This
reduces the effectiveness of such systems in controlling traffic
flow. Furthermore, traffic jams could occur in areas not marked by
the ALS/ERP. On the other hand, if the COE is priced high, then it
would deter people from buying a car altogether and these people
might switch to public transport, hence lading to a reduction in
traffic flow.

2 (b) Here are three strategies to help Singapore prepare for an ageing
population:

• community help
• government support
• individual responsibility

Is any one of these more important than the others? Explain your [13]
answer.


1 Writes about topic without focus on the given factors 1-2
Award 1 mark for 1 each detail, to a maximum of 2 marks.

e.g. Singapore’s population will age rapidly over the next 30
years, etc.

2 Describes the factor(s) but without explaining them 3-4
Award 3 marks for one factor and 4 marks for more than one
factor described

e.g. Community help is also an effective strategy to help
Singapore prepare for an ageing population. The community
plays an important role in giving social and moral support as well
as providing health care and social services to the senior citizens.

e.g. Government support is an effective strategy to help

11

Singapore prepare for an ageing population. As Singapore’s
ageing population may cause a strain on the government’s
resources to support them, the government has taken initiatives
to implement policies or measures that can help Singaporeans
cope with the problem of ageing population.

e.g. Individual responsibility is also an effective strategy to help
Singapore prepare for an ageing population. Due to the
enormous resources needed to cater to the needs of the senior
citizens as well as the strains these citizens pose to the state and
its younger population, the individual has a great role to play in
minimising the impact.

3 Explains one factor 5-7
Award 5 marks for an explanation of one given factor, and
additonal marks for supporting detail, to a maximum of 7 marks

Community Help
e.g. Community help is also an effective strategy to help
Singapore prepare for an ageing population. The community
plays an important role in giving social and moral support as well
as providing health care and social services to the senior citizens.
Voluntary welfare organisations, supported by government
subsidies, provide community-based services for the senior
citizens. An example is the Home Nursing Foundation for Elders.
Most of the organizations involve members of the community
such as housewives, students and retirees to help look after the
needs of the senior citizens. Some community organizations also
offer free health checks and organise recreational activities to
help senior citizens remain physically, mentally and socially
active. Hence the community plays an important role in helping to
reduce the reliance on the government and relieve the
government in its effort to take care of the senior citizens and
ensuring that these senior citizens are well taken of.

OR

Government Support
e.g. Government support is also an effective strategy to help
Singapore prepare for an ageing population. As Singapore’s
ageing population may cause a strain on the government’s
resources to support them, the government has taken initiatives
to implement policies or measures that can help Singaporeans
cope with the problem of ageing population. The government set
up Central Provident Fund which ensures that there are sufficient
financial resources for the elderly to cope with life after
retirement. The savings in the Special Account are for retirement,
emergency and investment purposes. The money from the
Medisave Account can be used for medical expenses. At the age
of 55, the members can withdraw their savings from the
Retirement Account and from the age of 62, they receive a
monthly sum from their accounts. This helps to ensure that the

12

senior citizens will be self-reliant and they can be responsible for
supporting themselves financially. Such policies also help to
ensure that the ageing population does not become a burden to
the government and reduces the need for the government to give
heavy subsidies to take care of the ageing population. As a result,
less resources and revenue need to be channelled to support the
ageing population. The revenue could then be used for financing
projects that enhance Singapore’s economic development.
Hence, it helps Singapore to prepare for an ageing population
better.

OR

Individual Responsibility
e.g. Individual responsibility is also an effective strategy to help
Singapore prepare for an ageing population. Due to the
enormous resources needed to cater to the needs of the senior
citizens as well as the strains these citizens pose to the state and
its younger population, the individual has a great role to play in
minimising the impact. By leading an active and healthy lifestyle
and maintaining a proper diet, it minimises the risk of age-related
illnesses or diseases. Also by encouraging individuals to be spent
more time with family members and friends, it will lead to better
support and more active social life. All these help to minimise the
impact of ageing population. As individuals learn to be more
responsible in looking after themselves, it means that the
government can use the resources for other developments and
help reduce the strain on the working Singaporeans who are the
tax-payers.

4 Explains two or more factors 8-11
Award 8 marks for two given factors explained, up to a maximum
of 9 marks
Award 10 marks for all three given factors explained, up to a
maximum of 11 marks

5 L4, plus reaches a balanced conclusion based on the relative 12-13
significance of the factors

13

3 Managing Peace and Security: Deterrence and Diplomacy

(a) How far do you agree that the most important cause of international
conflicts has been ideological differences? Explain your answer. [12]


1 Writes about conflict between countries but without focus on 1-2
the question
Award 1 mark for one detail, to a maximum of 2 marks

e.g. International conflicts occur when countries do not agree with
one another on issues which might threaten their national
interests. Conflicts can take many forms - a war of words where
the countries involved criticize each other openly which may
result in reduced trade between the two countries or armed
conflict which can result in loss of lives and properties.

2 Describes the given reason OR/AND Identifies/Describes the 3-4
other reasons
Award 3 marks for describing the given reason OR
identifying/describing the other reasons.
Award 4 marks for doing both.

Conflict over different ideologies
e.g. Countries pursuing different ideologies can come into conflict
if they see that their ideological beliefs are threatened. The
Korean War occurred because North Korea and South Korea
believed in different ideologies – North Korea believed in
communism while South Korea believed in democracy.

OR

Territorial disputes
e.g. Conflicts may occur between countries when two or more
countries try to extend their control by taking over territories which
do not belong to them. A good example is the on-going border
conflict between India and China.

OR

Competition for scarce resources
e.g. The natural resources of the world such as land, water, oil
and fish are unevenly distributed. Some countries have more of
such resources while others have less. Countries with fewer
resources might use force to gain more of these resources. An
example is the conflict over fishing grounds between Iceland and
Britain in the 1970s.

3 Explains the given reason OR other reason(s) 5-6
Award 5 marks for an explanation of given reason, and an
additional mark for any supporting detail, to a maximum of 6
marks

14

Conflict over different ideologies
e.g. Countries pursuing different ideologies can come into conflict
if they see that their ideological beliefs are threatened. North and
South Korea fought a war because they believed in different
ideologies - North Korea believed in Communism while South
Korea believed in Democracy. After World War Two, Korea was
divided into two separate countries - South Korea which was
temporary occupied by the USA and North Korea which was
occupied by USSR. The UN called for an election in 1947 to
establish a single government to reunite Korea. USSR refused
the election and installed a communist regime in the north. In
1948, the independent Republic of Korea was formed with the
support of USA. The governments of the two Koreas each
claimed the right to rule the whole Korean peninsula. From
1949-1950, frequent border clashes broke out between the two
countries. In June 1950, war broke out in Korea when North
Korea invaded South Korea in an attempt to unite the Korean
peninsula under communism. Fearing that North Korea would
spread the communist ideology to South Korea, the USA, its
allies and UN defended South Korea. They defeated the North
Koreans but instead of ending the war, the American President,
with the approval of the UN, ordered an invasion of North Korea.
When the UN troops reached the border between North Korea
and China, China, fearing that their national interest would be
threatened, joined the war and aided North Korea in pushing the
UN troops back into South Korea. The UN troops counter-
attacked and drove the Chinese army back into North Korea. The
war resulted in the loss of many lives. Finally in 1953, an
agreement to stop the fighting was signed by all parties and a
demilitarized zone between North and South Korea was created.
Up till today, the Korean peninsular remains divided.

OR

Territorial disputes
e.g. Territorial disputes are the main reason for conflicts between
countries. Sometimes countries try to extend their control over
territories which do not belong to them. Control over certain
tracts of land may mean a lot to a country, especially if the
land is important to its defence and national pride. Acquired
new territory means increased political power and
supremacy. The country’s territorial sphere of influence and
air-space are now expanded. It may also mean more human
resources and new natural resources such as water, fish,
forests, minerals. If the territory that is invaded is claimed by
two countries or more, it can result in conflict among these
countries. A good example is the on-going border conflict
between India and China. In 1947 when India gained
independence from Britain, it inherited the frontier drawn by the
British. China, however, did not agree to the frontier. As it was
difficult to draw a clear border between India and China as much
of their frontier lies in the inaccessible Himalayas, two border
regions of Aksai Chin plateau and the North East Frontier Agency
(NEFA) became areas of constant conflict between the two

15

countries. Both countries refused to come to an agreement –
India argued that China had violated territorial rights when China
built a road on the Aksai Chin plateau, while China argued that
the border had never been fixed in the first place. This led to the
1962 war between the two countries. Until today, the dispute is
not resolved, and there have been a number of serious border
incidents since the war.

OR

Competition for scarce resources
e.g. Competition over scarce resources is a main reason for
conflict between countries. The natural resources of the world
such as land, water, oil and fish are unevenly distributed. Some
countries have more of such resources while others have less.
Countries with fewer resources might use force to gain
more, especially when these resources are necessary for
survival and economic growth. A shortage of resources can
adversely affect a country’s economy. For example, in the
1970s, Iceland and Britain were in conflict over fishing grounds.
Iceland has few natural resources and depends on its fishing
industry for its survival. Iceland felt that its national interest was
threatened when fishermen from Belgium, Germany and Britain
were over-fishing around Iceland, resulting in a decrease in fish
stocks around Iceland. Iceland suggested that the United Nations
intervenes by requiring other countries to reduce their catches, by
placing quotas on the tonnage of fish caught and by disallowing
fishing in breeding grounds. However, most of the suggestions
were ignored or accepted slowly. This frustrated Iceland and
increased Iceland’s unhappiness with foreign fishermen. In 1975,
Iceland extended its zone of control over fishing grounds from 50
to 200 nautical miles beyond its shores. As a result, no country
would be able to fish within the boundary without Iceland’s
permission. All countries complied with the new regulations,
except Britain which refused to acknowledge the new boundary.
This led to frequent clashes and collisions between British naval
ships patrolling the waters where British trawlers operated and
Iceland’s Coast Guard vessels inside the disputed area. Each
side blamed the other for the collisions. Eventually Iceland cut its
diplomatic ties with Britain in February 1976. Ties were restored
only in June 1976 after an agreement was signed between the
two countries.

4 Explains the given reason AND identifies/describes other 7
reason(s)

5 Explains the given reason, AND explains other reason(s) 8-10
Award 8 marks for an explanation of given reason and
another reason, up to a maximum of 9 marks. Award 10
marks for more than one additional reason explained.

6 L5 + Reaches a balanced conclusion based on the relative 11-12
importance of the explained reasons
Award 11 marks for answers which have an explanation on

16

why the given reason is more or less important compared to
another reason. Award 12 marks for any further
comparisons with an alternative reason.

e.g. [As L5 plus] In conclusion, territorial disputes is the main
reason for conflict between countries as land means a lot to a
country’s defence and national pride. This type of conflict is one
of the most difficult to resolve as very few countries are willing to
give way. Acquired new territories means increased political
power and supremacy. The country’s territorial sphere of
influence and air-space are now expanded. It may also mean
more human resources and new natural resources such as
water, fish, forests, minerals. For the India-China dispute, the
power of owning more territorial land was a major reason for the
dispute because the land they fought over had no natural
resources. Forty years after the war, China and India are still
unable to resolve their territorial dispute as no one wants to give
way or negotiate. Till today, there have been several border
incidents.

Similarly, the Iceland-Britain dispute was not just a conflict
over scarce resources. The conflicts occurred only after
Iceland tried to extend its territorial waters to preserve its
fishing industry. But in this case, Britain gave way, hence the
issue was resolved. Similarly, in the case of the Korean War, it
was not just due to ideological differences but also to the desire
for territorial gains and what they will bring for the country. When
North Korea invaded South Korea, it intended to gain from all
the rich resources that South Korea possessed. With these
resources under its control, the North Korean government
could channel them towards economic reconstruction of the
country. Increased land means increased power and it was this
reason that propelled the North Korean regime to launch the
attack on the South.

Of secondary importance were ideological differences. A country
needs first to survive. If it could not even guarantee its
economic survival, would ideology be of much use? Hence, it
is most probable that North Korea used ideology as a pretext to
invade South Korea to conceal the true reason. People of
different ideologies can still exist in harmony but a new
territory can bring new political influence and resources.

3 (b) Here are three strategies to protect Singapore from threats:

• Total Defence
• a citizen armed force
• military co-operation with other countries

Is any one of these more important than the others? Explain your [13]
answer.

17


1 Writes about topic without focus on the given factors 1-2
Award 1 mark for 1 each detail, to a maximum of 2 marks.

e.g. To protect its national interests, all countries including
Singapore has developed its own national security policy. As
Singapore is a small state with limited resources, it adopts a
national security policy of deterrence supported by diplomacy.

Award 3 marks for one factor and 4 marks for more than one
factor described
e.g. Total Defence was introduced in 1984 to involve everyone in
the defence of the country. Total defence comprises five aspects:
Military, Civil, Economic, Social and Psychological Defence. It
provides a comprehensive and integrated response to any threats
and challenges.
e.g. Deterrence, in the form of military might and preparedness
for conflict, is a better way to ensure Singapore’s national
security. Every country should have a strong military that it can
rely on in the event of war. Singapore’s national service policy
helps build up its citizen army force while its related defence
industry helps support its armed force by ensuring that the best
weapons will always be made available for the military.
e.g. To strengthen its military might, Singapore has military
cooperation with other countries. Those countries that Singapore
is cooperating with will not attack it but will be on its side instead.

additional marks for supporting detail, to a maximum of 7 marks.

Total Defence
e.g. Singapore’s Total Defence strategy, the cornerstone of its
national security policy, calls for the deterrence of aggression
through the maintenance of a small but well-trained and well-
equipped military backed by a committed population proficient in
civil defence and prepared for any potential conflict. Therefore in
the event of a conflict, there are civilians who are trained in first
aid and are able to assist the general public in obtaining food and
water supplies. Through this strategy, potential aggressors will
think twice about attacking Singapore if they know they will be
facing the entire nation and not just the armed forces.

OR

A Citizen Armed Force
e.g. Deterrence, in the form of military might and preparedness
for conflict, is a better way to ensure Singapore’s national
security. Every country should have a strong military it can rely on

18

in the event of war. A country’s military might will also make a
potential enemy think twice before attacking it. The enemy knows
that if it continues with the attacks, the other country will respond
with all its military might. In the end, both sides will suffer great
losses. Thus Singapore’s national service policy helps build up its
citizen army force while its related defence industry helps support
its armed force by ensuring that the best weapons will always be
made available for the military.

OR

Military Co-operation with Other Countries
e.g. To strengthen its military might, Singapore has military
cooperation with other countries. Those countries that Singapore
is cooperating with will not attack it but will be on its side instead.
Military cooperation increases the number of allies that Singapore
has in times of trouble. Countries that are potential threats to
Singapore’s security will also think twice about attacking it. Thus
deterrence will help to prevent to ensure Singapore’s national
security.

e.g. Military cooperation would also enable the transfer of military
tactics, expertise. Military cooperation on bilateral and
multilateral levels have indeed impacted on Singapore’s
deterrence policy. For example, Australia offers vast areas of
open land for the training of the RSAF. RSAF operates a Jet
Flying Training School in Western Australia and Australia agreed
to allow RSAF to train there for 15 years. Through bilateral ties,
Singapore is able to train and hence strengthen the rigour and
expertise of its armed forces by allowing them to train with foreign
armies. Moreover, bilateral military cooperation also allows
Singapore soldiers to have the necessary training overseas which
makes up for the lack of training ground in Singapore. Military
cooperation has also helped Singapore’s national security
through the FPDA (Five Power Defence Arrangements). The five
member nations of the FPDA hold joint military exercises. In the
event of an external threat to Singapore or Malaysia, the
members will consult one another on the appropriate measures to
be taken. Multi-lateral ties would mean that peace would be
indirectly promoted in the region due to defensive regional
arrangements like the FDPA. Moreover, the thought of having to
deal with Britain, Australia and NZ has deterred countries in the
region from engaging in hostile activities. Military cooperation
between Singapore and Malaysia has also led to both countries
viewing military cooperation as an important factor to peace and
stability in Southeast Asia.

of 9 marks
maximum of 11 marks

19


4 Venice – A Great City-State of Its Time

(a) How far do you agree that the most important factor for the eventual
decline of Venice was due to foreign threats? Explain your answer. [12]


1 Writes about the eventual decline of Venice but without 1-2
focus on the question
Award 1 mark for one detail, to a maximum of 2 marks

e.g. Venice faced a gradual decline from the 15th century
onwards. The Venetians prided themselves on their successes,
they overlooked events and developments unfolding in the region,
etc.
2 Describes the given factor OR/AND Identifies/ Describes the 3-4
other factors
Award 3 marks for describing the given factor OR identifying
/describing the other factors
Award 4 marks for doing both

Foreign Threats
e.g. Foreign threats in the form of the emergence of new military
rivals, involvement in the mainland and the Leagues of Cambrai
led to the decline of Venice.

OR

Maritime Competition
e.g. The discovery of a new trade route to the East as well as the
rise of new trade rivals threatened the monopoly trade status of
Venice in the region. Venice lost its monopoly status and the
shortfall in revenue threatened its ability to defend itself against
external rivals.

OR

Political Challenges
e.g. As Venice prospered, corruption and incompetent leaders
weakened the government in their ability to rule Venice
objectively and fairly.

OR

Social Challenges
e.g. As the Venetians prospered, the complacency of Venetian
society led to its decline. The Venetians became less hard
working and placed more emphasis on entertaining themselves.

20

3 Explains the given factor or other factor(s) 5-6
Award 5 marks for an explanation of the given factor, and an
additional mark for any supporting detail, to a maximum of 6
marks

Foreign Threats
e.g. Foreign threats in the form of the emergence of new military
rivals led to the decline of Venice. For example, as the Ottoman
Empire expanded, the Venetians had to fight hard for their control
of the Adriatic Sea. The Ottomans had acquired territories along
the coast of the Adriatic Sea and launched attacks at Venetian
territories from there. Venice had to use its galleys to fight off
these attacks, thus disrupting the use of galleys for trading
purposes.

e.g. Besides the Ottoman Empire, Venice also had to face the
League of Cambrai, a military alliance against Venice formed by
the major powers of Europe like France and Spain. These states
resented Venice’s influence in the region and aimed to reduce the
power of Venice and divide its territories amongst them. The
fighting of wars with these two formidable rivals drained and
weakened Venice’s resources.

OR

Maritime Competition
e.g. Another factor would be the rise in maritime competition.
With the discovery of new maritime routes such as that around
the Cape of Good Hope, Venice lost its monopoly of the lucrative
spice trade and greatly reduced the large profits which Venetian
traders had earned for centuries. The Portuguese could now buy
their spices directly from India and this led to competition with the
Venetians.

e.g. The formation of huge trading companies like the Dutch East
India Company and the English East India Company meant that
Venice was now bypassed as these companies had better-
designed ships that could sail directly to the East to get their
supplies. Therefore, the rise of new trading rivals meant that
Venice’s revenue declined drastically as it was no longer the
only source of supplies from the East. The decline in revenue
meant that Venice could not finance its defence against the
new military rivals it faced.

OR

Political Challenges
e.g. Internally, as Venice prospered, there was a weakening of
the government. As older families died and a plague struck
Venice in the 17th century, there was a decline in the population of
the nobility. To retain their wealth and properties, noble families
arranged marriages among themselves, causing wealth to be
concentrated in the hands of a few families. With a small group
of nobles dominating the government, corruption grew
especially in the higher offices, causing policies to be made

21

to preserve the power, prestige and wealth of nobles rather
than for the good of the city-state.

e.g. Another factor that led to the weakening of the government
was the appointment of nobles who were previously scholars to
serve as naval commanders when they did not have adequate
naval expertise or military experience. This caused Venice to
sustain heavy losses in battles against the powerful Ottomans.
Therefore, the weakening of the government meant that
Venice could not implement good policies to cope with its
new challenges and withstand the might of its powerful
neighbours.

OR

Social Challenges
e.g. As the Venetians prospered, the complacency of the
Venetian society led to its decline. The Venetians became less
hard working and placed more emphasis on entertaining
themselves. The rich indulged in fine living by holding lavish
parties. There were also countless parades and celebrations
involving the whole city. There was a year-end party that lasted
for weeks, when the whole city stopped functioning. Also, both
the poor and the rich were involved in gambling. Thus they
became less involved in important matters like administration and
the development of Venice. Soon Venice became insignificant
and lost out to other traders and this led to the decline of
Venice.

4 Explains the given factor AND identifies/ describes other 7
factor(s)
5 Explains the given factor, AND explains other factor(s) 8-10
Award 8 marks for an explanation of given factor and another
factor, up to a maximum of 9 marks. Award 10 marks for more
than one additional factor explained.
6 L5 + reaches a balanced conclusion based on a relative 11-12
importance of the explained factors
Award 11 marks to answers which have an explanation of why
the given factor is more or less important compared to another
factor. Award 12 marks for any comparisons with another
alternative factor.

e.g. Venice’s decline is largely due to its inability to respond
effectively to foreign threats. By the 15th century, many of the
mainland states regarded Venice as their rivals and were
unwilling to help Venice. Venice on its part refused to forge
positive relations with rising nations such as Portugal but instead
viewed them as competitors. Due to the lack of tactful diplomacy,
Venetians also suffered on the economic front. Venice could not
compete with the rising European powers following the discovery
of the new seas routes. This affected their revenue which in turn
weakened their military capability. Venice’s final collapse took
place when its weakened government surrendered the city-state
to France without a single shot being fired.

22

4 (b) Here are three factors that contributed to the rise of Venice from the 9th
to
the 15th centuries:

• capable leaders
• practical economic strategies
strategic geographical location

Is any one of these more important than the others? Explain your
answer. [13]

1 Writes about the topic but without focus on the given factors 1-2
Award 1 mark for each detail, to a maximum of 2 marks

e.g. Venice became very powerful politically and economically from
the 9th to the 15th century, etc.
Award 3 marks for one factor and 4 marks for more than one factor
described

e.g. Capable leaders contributed to Venice’s rise. Some made
outstanding contributions in the growth and development of Venice
as they were far-sighted.

e.g. Practical economic strategies led to the rise of Venice too. For
example, by looking into ways to increase trading volume through
various strategies.

e.g. Strategic geographical location contributed to the rise of
Venice. Venice’s strategic location allowed its traders to conduct
trading with European states using goods sourced from the east.

additonal marks for supporting detail, to a maximum of 7 marks

Capable leaders
e.g. Capable leaders contributed to Venice’s rise. One example is
Doge Enrico Dandolo whose leadership of the Fourth Crusade led
to the capture of the Byzantine Empire’s capital Constantinople.
This crusade allowed Venice to take over territories once controlled
by the Byzantine Empire and increase its international status and
recognition. Doge Enrico was being far-sighted when he
captured Constantinople as with this conquest, he was able to
get the best trading terms for Venice and also gained control
of territories which were important for trade, leading to the
rise of Venice.

e.g. Other Doges increased Venice’s power by establishing trade

23

routes like Pietro Ziani and Pietro II Orseolo established diplomatic
relations and placated pirates to facilitate trade. By leading many
missions to conquer territories, these Doges were capable
leaders who felt that peace in the region would boost Venice
maritime’s trade. Through this, it gave Venice peace and
stability, allowing it to generate more revenue and wealth,
leading to the rise of Venice. These leaders certainly lay the
foundations for the rise of the Venetian Empire.

OR

Practical economic strategies
e.g. Practical economic strategies led to the rise of Venice too.
One example was when the Venetians decided to pay the pirates
so that they will not harass the trading ships stopping at Venice. In
this way, nations trading with Venice felt safe and were
encouraged to trade with Venice. Venice hence prospered.

e.g. Venice had skilled diplomats who could get favourable trading
terms such as lower tax rate which gave them competitive edge
over their competitors such as Genoa. Through lower tax rates,
this meant that Venetian goods were relatively cheaper than
those of their competitors, making them more attractive to
foreign traders, leading to increased trade and revenue, thus
contributing to the rise of Venice.

e.g. Innovations in maritime technology in the areas of navigation
and weaponry used on ships also helped to ensure that Venice
could sail in the Mediterranean Sea throughout the year. By
making use of the advances to conduct voyages in the winter/
in harsh weather conditions, this increased the frequency of
trade and brought Venice more profits, leading to the rise of
Venice. The Senate also came up with an efficient way of
managing voyages. It organised and monitored the schedule of
trade voyages as well as grouped and ordered them to travel in
convoys. With more traders travelling together in convoys, this
meant that trading could be done in greater quantities, hence
more profitable. The efficiency of the system also meant that
Venice was able to expand its trade into many regions. With
increased trade, revenue also increased, leading to the rise of
Venice.

OR

Strategic geographical location
e.g. Strategic geographical location contributes to the rise of
Venice. With Venice strategically located at the northern tip of the
Adriatic Sea, Central and Southern Europe relied on Venetians for
goods from the east such as spices, sugar and even diamonds.
Using a combination of overland and sea routes, Venetian traders

24

went to Arabian ports such as Alexandria and Hormuz to buy and
later sell these goods to other European states. By selling these
goods at a very high price, Venetians traders were able to
reap large profits. This made Venice’s economic standing in
the region very strong, leading to the rise of Venice.

of 9 marks
maximum of 11 marks


25

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