SBS GP Essays - General Vocabulary - Topics & Concepts

STEP-BY-STEP GP ESSAYS BY PAWENA KANIAH
Here are some rich and sophisticated argumentative vocabulary words specific to the topic of "Wars, conflicts and terrorism":
Hegemony
Meaning: Leadership or dominance, especially by one country or social group over others.
Example: The United States has been accused of seeking hegemony in the Middle East.
Escalation
Meaning: The process of increasing the intensity or severity of a conflict or situation.
Example: The escalation of tensions between two nations can often lead to armed conflict.
Collateral damage
Meaning: Unintended harm or damage caused to people or property during a military operation.
Example: The use of drones in warfare has raised concerns about the high rate of collateral damage.
Genocide
Meaning: The deliberate and systematic extermination of a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group.
Example: The Holocaust is considered one of the worst genocides in human history.
Propaganda
Pawena Kaniah Step-By-Step GP Essays – Topic & Concepts Vocabulary 2023 Bootcamp 1 | P a g e
Meaning: Information, ideas, or opinions spread deliberately to influence public opinion or promote a particular cause or ideology.
Example: During times of war, governments often use propaganda to rally support for the war effort.
Terrorism
Meaning: The use of violence and intimidation in the pursuit of political aims.
Example: The 9/11 attacks in the United States were a major act of terrorism that killed thousands of people.
Non-state actor
Meaning: A group or organization that operates independently of the government or state, such as a terrorist group or rebel militia.
Example: Non-state actors can often pose a significant threat to national security and stability.
Militarization
Meaning: The process of equipping and organizing a society or region for war or military conflict.
Example: The militarization of police forces has been a controversial issue in many countries.
War crimes
Meaning: Acts committed during wartime that violate the laws and customs of war, such as targeting civilians or using chemical weapons.
Example: The Nuremberg Trials were held to prosecute war criminals after World War II.
Insurgency
Meaning: An organized rebellion or uprising against a government or authority.
Example: The insurgency in Afghanistan has been ongoing for decades, with various groups vying for power and control.
Jingoism
Meaning: Extreme patriotism and aggressive foreign policy.
Example: The government's jingoistic rhetoric and military posturing escalated tensions with neighboring countries.
Pacifism
Meaning: A belief in non-violence and opposition to war or militarism.
Example: Many activists and religious leaders promote pacifism as a means of resolving conflicts without violence.
Here are some advanced argumentative vocabulary words specific to the topic of family, marriage, partnerships, social pressure, class, and
social attitudes:
Stigma
Meaning: A mark of disgrace or shame associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person.
Example: People who are living with HIV still face stigma and discrimination in many parts of the world.
Inequality
Meaning: The state of being unequal or having an uneven distribution of resources, opportunities, or power.
Example: Economic inequality and social inequality are major issues in many countries, and have led to protests and social unrest.
Marginalization
Meaning: The process of pushing someone or a group to the edge or margins of society, often due to discrimination or prejudice.
Example: Immigrants and minorities are often marginalized in society, leading to limited opportunities and social exclusion.
Homogeneity
Meaning: The state of being uniform or homogeneous, with little or no variation or diversity.
Example: The lack of diversity in some communities has led to social homogeneity and a lack of cultural exchange.
Hierarchy
Meaning: A system or structure in which people or groups are ranked according to status, power, or authority.
Example: Many societies have social hierarchies based on class, race, gender, or other factors.
Intergenerational
Meaning: Occurring between different generations, such as between parents and children or grandparents and grandchildren.
Example: Intergenerational conflict and tension can arise due to differences in values, attitudes, and expectations.
Perpetuate
Meaning: To cause something to continue or persist over time, often to the detriment of certain groups or individuals.
Example: Some social attitudes and practices perpetuate inequality and discrimination, leading to ongoing social problems.
Heteronormativity
Meaning: The assumption that heterosexuality is the norm and that gender and sexual identities conform to traditional binary categories of male and
female.
Example: Heteronormativity reinforces harmful stereotypes and marginalizes LGBTQ+ individuals and communities.
Intersectionality
Meaning: The interconnected nature of social categories such as race, gender, class, and sexuality, and the ways in which they overlap and interact to
produce complex forms of discrimination and oppression.
Example: Intersectionality highlights the need to address multiple forms of marginalization and oppression in order to achieve social justice.
Social mobility
Meaning: The ability of individuals or groups to move up or down the social and economic ladder over the course of their lives.
Example: Social mobility is often limited by factors such as class background, education, and access to opportunities.
Classism
Meaning: Prejudice, discrimination, or systemic oppression based on social class or economic status.
Example: Classism can limit access to education, employment, and other opportunities, perpetuating economic inequality and social exclusion.
Intersectional feminism
Meaning: A form of feminist theory and practice that recognizes the intersecting nature of social identities and aims to promote social justice and
equality for all individuals, regardless of their gender, race, class, sexuality, or other social categories.
Example: Intersectional feminism recognizes the ways in which gender, race, class, and other factors intersect to produce complex forms of
discrimination and oppression, and works to challenge these power structures and promote equity and inclusion.
Internalized oppression
Meaning: The process by which individuals or groups internalize and accept negative stereotypes and attitudes about their own social identity, often
resulting in self-doubt, low self-esteem, and self-limiting behaviors.
Example: Internalized oppression can be a barrier to achieving personal and collective empowerment and can perpetuate systemic forms of
discrimination and inequality.
Cultural relativism
Meaning: The principle that cultural beliefs, practices, and values should be understood and evaluated in the context of their own cultural setting,
rather than judged by external standards or norms.
Example: Cultural relativism highlights the importance of respecting diversity and recognizing the complexity and richness of different cultural
traditions and perspectives.
Social capital
Meaning: The resources, networks, and relationships that individuals or groups possess, often used to achieve social and economic success.
Example: Social capital can be a key factor in determining an individual's social mobility and access to opportunities, and is often linked to factors such
as class, race, and education.
Intersectional oppression
Meaning: The ways in which different forms of oppression and marginalization intersect to produce unique and complex experiences of discrimination
and disadvantage.
Example: Intersectional oppression recognizes that individuals may experience oppression based on multiple social categories, such as race, gender,
and sexuality, and that these forms of oppression are interconnected and mutually reinforcing.
Social constructionism
Meaning: The perspective that reality and meaning are socially constructed through language, culture, and history, rather than being inherent or
objective.
Example: Social constructionism challenges essentialist and biological explanations of gender and other social categories, emphasizing the importance
of understanding how social meanings and identities are constructed and reproduced over time.
Sexism
Meaning: Prejudice, discrimination, or systemic oppression based on gender, often resulting in unequal treatment and limited opportunities for
women and other marginalized genders.
Example: Sexism can manifest in various forms, including gender-based violence, unequal pay and representation in the workplace, and limited access
to education and healthcare.
Privilege
Meaning: Unearned advantages or benefits conferred by society based on an individual's perceived social identity, often resulting in unequal treatment
and opportunities for marginalized groups.
Example: Privilege can be based on factors such as race, class, gender, and sexuality, and can manifest in various forms of social and economic
advantages.
Social stratification
Meaning: The hierarchical organization of society based on factors such as class, race, and gender, often resulting in unequal access to resources and
opportunities.
Example: Social stratification can create tension and conflict within society, perpetuating power imbalances and limiting opportunities for marginalized
groups.
Marginalization
Meaning: The process by which individuals or groups are pushed to the margins of society, often resulting in social exclusion, discrimination, and
limited access to resources and opportunities.
Example: Marginalization can result from factors such as poverty, discrimination, and systemic oppression, and can have significant impacts on an
individual's health, well-being, and quality of life.
Globalisation and its impacts, Wealth and equality in society, Population and migration
Globalisation:
Homogenisation: the process of making things uniform or similar.
Example: The homogenisation of cultures through globalisation could result in the loss of diversity and uniqueness.
Transnationalism: the idea that people and institutions operate beyond the boundaries of nation-states.
Example: Transnational corporations are powerful actors in the globalised economy, with influence beyond the borders of any one nation-state.
Cultural Imperialism: the imposition of one culture on other cultures, often through media or economic domination.
Example: The rise of American fast food chains around the world is often cited as an example of cultural imperialism.
Glocalisation: the adaptation of global products or ideas to suit local cultural contexts.
Example: McDonald's menu items vary across different countries due to glocalisation efforts.
Neoliberalism: an economic ideology that emphasizes free markets, deregulation, and limited government intervention.
Example: Neoliberal policies such as trade liberalisation and privatisation are often associated with the spread of globalisation.
Outsourcing: the practice of hiring workers outside of a company or country to perform certain tasks.
Example: Many companies outsource their manufacturing processes to countries with lower labour costs, leading to concerns about job losses in
developed countries.
Wealth and Equality in Society:
Income Inequality: the unequal distribution of income within a population.
Example: The growing income inequality in many countries has led to calls for progressive tax policies and income redistribution.
Social Stratification: the hierarchical arrangement of individuals into social classes based on factors such as income, education, and occupation.
Example: Social stratification can lead to disparities in health outcomes and life chances, as those in lower classes often have less access to resources
and opportunities.
Privilege: a special advantage, immunity, or right granted to a particular person or group.
Example: White privilege is often cited as a factor in racial disparities in areas such as education and criminal justice.
Population and Migration:
Demographic Shift: a change in the composition of a population, often characterized by shifts in age, gender, or ethnicity.
Example: The aging of populations in many developed countries is leading to concerns about the sustainability of social welfare systems.
Brain Drain: the emigration of highly skilled or educated individuals from one country to another.
Example: Brain drain is often a concern for developing countries, as it can result in a loss of talent and skills needed for economic development.
Xenophobia: an intense or irrational dislike or fear of people from other countries.
Example: Xenophobia can manifest in policies such as strict immigration laws and anti-immigrant rhetoric.
Brain Gain: the benefits that can be gained when highly skilled or educated individuals migrate to a new country.
Example: Countries such as Canada and Australia have implemented programs to attract highly skilled immigrants, recognizing the potential for brain
gain.
Nativism: the belief that certain privileges or rights should be reserved for those who are considered native to a particular country or region.
Example: Nativist movements often oppose immigration and seek to preserve a sense of cultural or ethnic purity.
Here are some concepts for each topic:
Education
Standardized Testing: assessments that are designed to be administered and scored in a consistent way across different students and schools.
Example: Standardized testing is often criticized for placing too much emphasis on rote memorization and not enough on critical thinking skills.
Vocational Education: training programs that are designed to prepare students for specific jobs or careers.
Example: Vocational education programs such as apprenticeships can be an effective way to help students gain practical skills and enter the workforce.
Educational Equity: the principle that every student should have access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed, regardless of their
background or circumstances.
Example: Educational equity advocates argue that schools should provide additional support and resources to students from disadvantaged
communities.
Welfare:
Social Safety Net: government programs designed to provide financial assistance and support to individuals or families who are in need.
Example: Programs such as food stamps, unemployment insurance, and Medicaid are part of the social safety net in the United States.
Universal Basic Income: a proposed policy in which every citizen would receive a guaranteed income from the government, regardless of their
employment status.
Example: Proponents of universal basic income argue that it would reduce poverty and inequality and provide a safety net for those who are unable to
find work.
Means-Tested Programs: welfare programs that are only available to individuals or families who meet certain income or asset requirements.
Example: Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are means-tested programs in the United States.
Sport and Leisure:
Amateurism: the principle that athletes should not receive financial compensation for their athletic abilities.
Example: Amateurism rules in college sports have been controversial, with some arguing that student-athletes should be allowed to profit from their
likeness and endorsements.
Fan Culture: the collective behavior and attitudes of fans of a particular sport or team.
Example: Fan culture can have a significant impact on the popularity and success of a sport, and can sometimes lead to extreme or violent behavior.
Performance-Enhancing Drugs: substances that are used to improve athletic performance, often illegally.
Example: The use of performance-enhancing drugs has been a major issue in professional sports, with many athletes being caught and punished for
doping.
Work and Employment:
Gig Economy: a labor market characterized by short-term or freelance work arrangements, often facilitated by online platforms.
Example: Companies such as Uber and Lyft are often cited as examples of the gig economy.
Copycat layoffs
Meaning: The act of laying off employees in response to similar actions taken by other companies in the same industry.
Example: The tech company announced copycat layoffs after seeing a decline in revenue and profitability in the industry.
Rage Applying
Meaning: Applying for jobs while angry at one's current employer or job.
Example: Jane was so fed up with her current job that she began rage applying to any job she came across.
Quiet Hiring
Meaning: The practice of companies hiring new employees without posting job openings publicly.
Example: Some companies prefer quiet hiring to avoid being inundated with job applications or to keep their hiring practices confidential.
Resenteeism
Meaning: The act of employees coming to work but not fully engaging due to feelings of resentment or disengagement.
Example: Resenteeism can lead to decreased productivity and job satisfaction, as employees may not perform at their best when they are disengaged.
Bare Minimum Monday
Meaning: The practice of only doing the minimum amount of work required on Mondays.
Example: Some employees struggle with motivation on Mondays and may resort to doing the bare minimum required to get through the day.
Chaotic Working
Meaning: Working in a disorganized or chaotic environment that can lead to stress and inefficiency.
Example: Chaotic working conditions can negatively impact employees' mental health and job satisfaction.
Shift Shock
Meaning: The negative effects of working shifts on an employee's physical and mental health.
Example: Working night shifts can cause shift shock, which can lead to sleep disorders and decreased productivity.
Boomerang Employees
Meaning: Employees who leave a company but later return to work for the same company.
Example: Some companies have boomerang employee programs to encourage former employees to return to the company after gaining additional
experience or education.
Career Cushioning
Meaning: The practice of building a backup plan or safety net in case of job loss or career setbacks.
Example: Career cushioning can involve developing additional skills or qualifications to increase employability in the future.
Freedom of speech, thought and action
Censorship
Meaning: The suppression or prohibition of any parts of books, films, news, etc. that are considered obscene, politically unacceptable, or a threat to
security.
Example: Censorship can restrict people's freedom of speech and limit the exchange of ideas and knowledge.
Hate speech
Meaning: Speech that attacks a person or group on the basis of their race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic.
Example: Hate speech is not protected under freedom of speech laws, as it can cause harm and incite violence.
Autonomy
Meaning: The right or condition of self-government or self-determination.
Example: Autonomy is a fundamental human right that allows individuals to make decisions for themselves without external influence.
Propaganda
Meaning: Information, especially of a biased or misleading nature, used to promote or publicize a particular political cause or point of view.
Example: Propaganda can be used to manipulate public opinion and restrict freedom of thought and expression.
Discourse
Meaning: Written or spoken communication or debate.
Example: Open discourse and the exchange of diverse ideas are essential for the development of critical thinking and the advancement of society.
Medical and scientific advances and their ethics
Drug testing, manufacture and provision
Diet, health education and provision of healthcare
Space exploration and its associated industry
Ethical relativism
Meaning: The theory that ethical truths are relative to individuals or cultures and that there is no universal moral standard.
Example: Ethical relativism can pose challenges when trying to establish universal ethical guidelines for medical research.
Informed consent
Meaning: The principle that a patient or research subject has the right to be fully informed about a medical treatment or research study before
agreeing to participate.
Example: Informed consent is an important ethical consideration in medical research, as it allows individuals to make informed decisions about their
health.
Genetic engineering
Meaning: The manipulation of genes to alter the characteristics of an organism.
Example: Genetic engineering has the potential to revolutionize medical treatment, but raises ethical concerns about its safety and impact on human
nature.
Placebo effect
Meaning: The phenomenon of a patient's belief in a treatment leading to a perceived improvement in their condition, even if the treatment has no
actual therapeutic effect.
Example: The placebo effect is a well-known phenomenon in medical research and can complicate efforts to test the effectiveness of new treatments.
Biotechnology
Meaning: The use of living organisms or their products to develop useful products or technologies.
Example: Biotechnology has the potential to transform medicine by developing new treatments and therapies based on the manipulation of living
organisms.
Medical paternalism
Meaning: The practice of medical professionals making decisions on behalf of patients without their informed consent or against their wishes.
Example: Medical paternalism can violate patients' autonomy and raise ethical concerns about the role of medical professionals in decision-making.
Euthanasia
Meaning: The practice of intentionally ending a life to relieve pain and suffering.
Example: Euthanasia is a highly controversial ethical issue in healthcare, with differing opinions on its morality and legality.
Stem cell research
Meaning: The study of stem cells and their potential uses in medical treatment.
Example: Stem cell research holds promise for treating a wide range of diseases and conditions, but raises ethical questions about the use of
embryonic stem cells.
Precision medicine
Meaning: Medical treatment tailored to an individual's genetic makeup, lifestyle, and environment.
Example: Precision medicine has the potential to revolutionize healthcare by providing personalized treatment that is more effective and efficient.
Medical confidentiality
Meaning: The obligation of healthcare professionals to protect the privacy and confidentiality of their patients' medical information.
Example: Medical confidentiality is an important ethical principle that allows patients to feel comfortable sharing sensitive information with their
healthcare providers.
Animal testing
Meaning: The use of animals in research to test the safety and efficacy of medical treatments and procedures.
Example: Animal testing is a controversial ethical issue in medical research, with concerns about animal welfare and the reliability of results obtained
from animal models.
Vaccine hesitancy
Meaning: The reluctance or refusal to get vaccinated or to have one's children vaccinated, often based on concerns about vaccine safety or
effectiveness.
Example: Vaccine hesitancy is a growing concern in public health, as it can lead to outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases.
Patient autonomy
Meaning: The principle that patients have the right to make decisions about their own medical treatment, based on their own values and preferences.
Example: Respecting patient autonomy is an important ethical consideration in healthcare, as it allows patients to have control over their own health
and well-being.
Medical triage
Meaning: The process of prioritizing patients for medical treatment based on the severity of their condition and the likelihood of benefiting from
treatment.
Example: Medical triage is an important ethical consideration in emergency medicine, as it ensures that limited resources are allocated in the most
effective way possible.
Health equity
Meaning: The goal of ensuring that all individuals have an equal opportunity to achieve good health, regardless of their race, ethnicity, socioeconomic
status, or other factors.
Example: Health equity is an important ethical consideration in healthcare, as it aims to address disparities in access to healthcare and health outcomes
among different populations.
Artificial intelligence in medicine
Meaning: The use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms to analyze medical data and make predictions about patient outcomes.
Example: AI has the potential to revolutionize medicine by improving diagnosis and treatment planning, but raises ethical concerns about data privacy
and bias.
Medical malpractice
Meaning: The negligence or misconduct of a healthcare professional that results in harm to a patient.
Example: Medical malpractice is a serious ethical issue in healthcare, as it can result in injury, disability, or even death for patients.
Clinical trials
Meaning: Research studies in which new medical treatments or interventions are tested on human subjects.
Example: Clinical trials are an important part of medical research, but raise ethical concerns about the potential risks and benefits of participating in
research studies.
Gene editing
Meaning: The use of CRISPR technology or other techniques to alter the DNA of living organisms.
Example: Gene editing has the potential to cure genetic diseases, but raises ethical questions about the safety and unintended consequences of
manipulating DNA.
Health literacy
Meaning: The ability of individuals to understand and use information related to health and healthcare.
Example: Improving health literacy is an important ethical consideration in healthcare, as it can help individuals make informed decisions about their
health and well-being.
Cybersecurity
Meaning: The practice of protecting computer systems, networks, and sensitive information from unauthorized access, theft, or damage.
Example: Cybersecurity is a crucial consideration in today's digital age, as cyberattacks can have serious consequences for individuals and
organizations.
Data mining
Meaning: The process of extracting useful information and patterns from large sets of data.
Example: Data mining can be used in a variety of industries, but raises concerns about privacy and the potential misuse of personal information.
Big data
Meaning: Extremely large sets of data that can be analyzed to reveal patterns, trends, and associations.
Example: Big data has the potential to revolutionize industries such as healthcare and finance, but raises concerns about privacy and the ethical use of
personal information.
Algorithmic bias
Meaning: The tendency for machine learning algorithms to make decisions that are systematically biased against certain groups of people.
Example: Algorithmic bias is a serious ethical concern in fields such as hiring, lending, and law enforcement, as it can perpetuate discrimination and
unfair treatment.
Digital divide
Meaning: The gap between those who have access to information and communication technologies (ICTs) and those who do not.
Example: The digital divide can exacerbate social and economic inequalities, as those without access to ICTs may be at a disadvantage in education,
employment, and other areas.
Net neutrality
Meaning: The principle that all internet traffic should be treated equally, without discrimination or favoritism by internet service providers (ISPs).
Example: Net neutrality is a contentious issue, with advocates arguing that it promotes a level playing field for internet users, while opponents claim
that it stifles innovation and investment in the telecommunications industry.
Cyberbullying
Meaning: The use of digital communication technologies to harass, intimidate, or humiliate another person.
Example: Cyberbullying is a serious issue, with potentially devastating consequences for victims, and raises ethical questions about the responsibilities
of social media platforms and internet service providers.
Privacy by design
Meaning: The practice of designing systems, products, and services with privacy considerations built in from the outset.
Example: Privacy by design is an important ethical consideration in the development of ICTs, as it can help to prevent data breaches and protect
individuals' personal information.
Internet censorship
Meaning: The regulation or suppression of information on the internet, typically by governments or other authorities.
Example: Internet censorship can raise concerns about freedom of expression and the potential abuse of power by those in positions of authority.
Digital surveillance
Meaning: The monitoring of individuals' digital activities, typically for the purpose of security or law enforcement.
Example: Digital surveillance raises ethical questions about privacy and civil liberties, as well as concerns about the accuracy and fairness of algorithms
used to analyze surveillance data.
Environmental concerns
Natural disasters including mitigation and management
Rural and urban concerns
Food and water security
Climate change
Meaning: The long-term alteration of the Earth's climate, primarily as a result of human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation.
Example: Climate change is a pressing environmental concern, with potentially catastrophic consequences for ecosystems and human societies.
Biodiversity
Meaning: The variety of life on Earth, including the number, variety, and variability of species, ecosystems, and genetic diversity.
Example: Biodiversity loss is a major environmental concern, as it can have far-reaching consequences for ecosystem functioning and the provision of
ecosystem services.
Sustainable development
Meaning: Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
Example: Sustainable development is a key concept in environmental policy, with a focus on balancing economic, social, and environmental concerns.
Ecological footprint
Meaning: A measure of the impact of human activities on the environment, based on the amount of land and resources required to support a given
population or activity.
Example: The ecological footprint of industrial agriculture can be substantial, as it often requires large amounts of land, water, and energy to produce
food.
Environmental justice
Meaning: The fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people, regardless of race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status, in the development,
implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies.
Example: Environmental justice is an important consideration in the management of natural disasters, as marginalized communities may be
disproportionately affected by the impacts of climate change and other environmental hazards.
Renewable energy
Meaning: Energy generated from renewable sources such as solar, wind, and hydro power, which are replenished naturally and sustainably.
Example: Renewable energy is an important alternative to fossil fuels, as it can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote energy independence.
Ecosystem services
Meaning: The benefits that humans derive from natural ecosystems, such as pollination, water purification, and carbon sequestration.
Example: Ecosystem services are an important consideration in the management of natural resources, as they can provide economic, social, and
environmental benefits.
Greenhouse gases
Meaning: Gases, primarily carbon dioxide and methane, that trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere and contribute to global warming.
Example: The accumulation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere is a key driver of climate change, and reducing emissions is a crucial part of
mitigating its impacts.
Environmental stewardship
Meaning: The responsible management and protection of the environment, with a focus on sustainability and the long-term health of natural systems.
Example: Environmental stewardship is a fundamental principle in the management of rural and urban environments, as well as natural resources such
as water and forests.
Circular economy
Meaning: An economic system that is designed to minimize waste and maximize the efficient use of resources, by keeping materials in use for as long
as possible and promoting recycling and reuse.
Example: The circular economy is a key concept in sustainable development, with a focus on reducing resource consumption and promoting more
efficient and environmentally-friendly production and consumption practices.
Natural disasters including mitigation and management:
Disaster risk reduction
Meaning: The concept and practice of reducing the likelihood and severity of disasters, through measures such as early warning systems, preparedness
planning, and infrastructure improvements.
Example: Disaster risk reduction is an important aspect of managing natural disasters, as it can help to minimize the impacts on people, property, and
infrastructure.
Resilience
Meaning: The ability of communities and systems to withstand and recover from shocks and stresses, such as natural disasters or economic downturns.
Example: Building resilience is an important aspect of disaster preparedness, as it can help communities to better cope with and recover from the
impacts of natural disasters.
Hazard mapping
Meaning: The process of identifying and mapping the areas that are at risk of natural hazards such as floods, earthquakes, or landslides.
Example: Hazard mapping can be used to inform land-use planning and disaster preparedness, by identifying the areas that are most vulnerable to
natural disasters.
Rural and urban concerns:
Urbanization
Meaning: The process of population growth and movement from rural to urban areas, resulting in the development and expansion of cities and towns.
Example: Urbanization can have significant impacts on the environment, public health, and social and economic systems.
Food deserts
Meaning: Areas, typically in urban or rural settings, where access to healthy and affordable food is limited or nonexistent.
Example: Food deserts are a major concern in many communities, particularly those with low-income populations, and can contribute to health
disparities and food insecurity.
Sustainable agriculture
Meaning: Agricultural practices that are designed to be environmentally and socially sustainable, such as reducing pesticide and fertilizer use,
promoting crop diversity, and conserving soil and water resources.
Example: Sustainable agriculture is an important consideration in both rural and urban settings, as it can help to promote food security, protect natural
resources, and support rural livelihoods.
Food and water security:
Food security
Meaning: The state of having access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food that meets dietary needs and preferences.
Example: Food security is a critical issue in many parts of the world, particularly in developing countries and regions affected by conflict or climate
change.
Water scarcity
Meaning: The lack of sufficient freshwater resources to meet the demands of people and ecosystems.
Example: Water scarcity is a growing concern in many parts of the world, and can have significant impacts on human health, agriculture, and
ecosystems.
Aquifer depletion
Meaning: The reduction of groundwater reserves due to overuse or unsustainable management practices.
Example: Aquifer depletion is a significant threat to water security in many regions, particularly in arid and semi-arid areas where groundwater is a
critical source of freshwater.
Transport, travel and tourism
Sustainable tourism
Meaning: Tourism that takes into account environmental, social, and economic sustainability considerations, including the preservation of natural and
cultural resources.
Example: Sustainable tourism can help to promote local economic development and protect the environment, while providing meaningful travel
experiences for tourists.
Mass tourism
Meaning: Tourism that involves large numbers of visitors to a particular destination, often resulting in negative impacts such as overcrowding,
environmental degradation, and cultural homogenization.
Example: Mass tourism can have significant negative impacts on local communities and ecosystems, and may not be a sustainable form of tourism.
Congestion
Meaning: Traffic congestion occurs when there is too much traffic on the roads, resulting in slower speeds, longer travel times, and increased air
pollution.
Example: Congestion is a major challenge for urban transport systems, and can have significant impacts on quality of life, economic productivity, and
the environment.
Ecotourism
Meaning: A form of sustainable tourism that focuses on visiting natural and cultural sites in a way that is environmentally and socially responsible, and
provides benefits to local communities.
Example: Ecotourism can help to promote conservation of natural and cultural resources, while providing economic benefits to local communities.
Transportation infrastructure
Meaning: The physical systems and facilities needed to support transportation, such as roads, bridges, airports, and public transit systems.
Example: Transportation infrastructure is critical for supporting economic development, facilitating trade and commerce, and connecting people and
communities.
Carbon footprint
Meaning: The amount of greenhouse gas emissions (particularly carbon dioxide) that are released as a result of a particular activity or product, such as
air travel or driving a car.
Example: Transportation is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change, and reducing our carbon footprint is an important
consideration in developing sustainable transportation systems.
Tourist carrying capacity
Meaning: The maximum number of tourists that a particular destination or ecosystem can support without experiencing negative impacts such as
overcrowding, environmental degradation, or cultural disruption.
Example: Managing tourist carrying capacity is important for preserving the quality of travel experiences and protecting the environment and local
communities in popular tourism destinations.
Geotourism
Meaning: A form of tourism that focuses on exploring and celebrating the unique natural and cultural heritage of a particular destination, and
supporting sustainable development and preservation of local resources.
Example: Geotourism can help to promote sustainable tourism practices and preserve important cultural and natural resources, while providing
meaningful travel experiences for tourists.
Smart mobility
Meaning: The use of technology and data to optimize transportation systems and services, including public transit, ride-sharing, and other forms of
mobility.
Example: Smart mobility technologies can help to improve efficiency, safety, and accessibility of transportation systems, while reducing negative
impacts such as congestion and emissions.
Overtourism
Meaning: A form of mass tourism that occurs when destinations become overwhelmed by large numbers of visitors, resulting in negative impacts such
as overcrowding, environmental degradation, and cultural disruption.
Example: Overtourism is a growing problem in many popular tourism destinations, and can have significant negative impacts on the environment, local
communities, and the quality of travel experiences.
Modal shift
Meaning: The shift in transportation mode choice from single-occupancy vehicles to more sustainable modes such as public transit, cycling, and
walking.
Example: Modal shift is an important strategy for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving the sustainability of transportation systems, but
requires investment in infrastructure, policy, and behavioral change.
Ecological footprint
Meaning: A measure of the impact that human activities have on the environment, including the use of natural resources, land use, and emissions.
Example: Reducing the ecological footprint of transportation systems and travel activities is critical for promoting sustainability and reducing negative
impacts on the environment.
Transport electrification
Meaning: The shift towards using electric-powered vehicles and infrastructure in transportation systems, as a strategy for reducing emissions and
improving sustainability.
Example: Transport electrification is a key strategy for reducing the carbon footprint of transportation systems and mitigating climate change, but
requires investment in infrastructure and policies to support the adoption of electric vehicles.
Cultural tourism
Meaning: A form of tourism that focuses on experiencing and learning about the unique cultural heritage of a particular destination, including history,
arts, music, and cuisine.
Example: Cultural tourism can help to promote intercultural understanding, celebrate diversity, and support local communities and economies.
Print and Digital Media, Advertising, Censorship and freedom of the media and the arts
Clickbait
Meaning: Online content, typically in the form of headlines or teasers, designed to attract clicks and generate advertising revenue, often using
sensational or misleading information.
Example: Clickbait can be an effective marketing strategy for driving traffic to websites, but can also undermine the credibility of online media and
erode public trust.
Filter bubble
Meaning: A situation in which individuals are exposed only to online content and information that confirms their existing beliefs and perspectives,
leading to polarization and lack of diverse viewpoints.
Example: The filter bubble can have significant negative impacts on democracy and public discourse, by limiting access to diverse perspectives and
encouraging confirmation bias.
Corporate social responsibility (CSR)
Meaning: The idea that businesses and organizations have a responsibility to act in ways that promote social and environmental well-being, beyond
just maximizing profits.
Example: Media companies can demonstrate their commitment to CSR by promoting diversity and inclusion in their content, supporting ethical
journalism, and reducing their environmental impact.
Gatekeeping
Meaning: The process of selecting and controlling the flow of information through media channels, often by media owners, editors, or journalists.
Example: Gatekeeping can have significant impacts on public perception and understanding of social and political issues, by shaping the narratives and
framing of news stories.
Infotainment
Meaning: A combination of information and entertainment, typically in the form of news or other media content that emphasizes sensationalism,
spectacle, and emotional appeal over accuracy and analysis.
Example: Infotainment can be a popular form of media content, but can also undermine the credibility of journalism and reduce public trust in the
media.
Media literacy
Meaning: The ability to critically evaluate and analyze media content, including understanding the production, distribution, and impact of media
messages.
Example: Media literacy is an important skill for consumers of media, allowing them to identify bias, misinformation, and propaganda, and to make
informed decisions about the media they consume.
Yellow journalism
Meaning: A style of journalism that emphasizes sensationalism, scandal, and hyperbole over accuracy and fairness, often with the goal of attracting
readership and generating revenue.
Example: Yellow journalism can have significant negative impacts on public trust in the media, by undermining the credibility of journalism and
promoting misinformation and sensationalism.
Free Speech: The right to express any opinions without censorship or restraint.
Example: Free speech is essential in a democratic society, as it allows citizens to express their opinions and beliefs.
Prior Restraint: Censorship imposed before a speech is made or a newspaper is published.
Example: The government's use of prior restraint to prevent the publication of classified information is a controversial issue.
Content Moderation: The act of monitoring and removing objectionable content on social media platforms or other online forums.
Example: Content moderation is necessary to maintain a safe and healthy online community, but it must be balanced with freedom of expression.
Intellectual Freedom: The right to access and express ideas and information without censorship or restraint.
Example: Intellectual freedom is a cornerstone of democracy, as it allows citizens to access and share information without fear of censorship.
Cultural Sensitivity: The awareness and respect of cultural differences and the impact they have on communication and expression.
Example: It is important for media organizations to be culturally sensitive in their reporting, as it helps to foster understanding and respect between
different communities.
Self-Censorship: The act of voluntarily refraining from expressing certain opinions or ideas in order to avoid backlash or negative consequences.
Example: Self-censorship can be a dangerous phenomenon, as it can stifle the expression of dissenting opinions and limit freedom of expression.
Media Bias: The perceived slant or unfairness in reporting due to personal beliefs or institutional pressures.
Example: Media bias can be detrimental to democracy, as it can misinform citizens and limit their ability to make informed decisions.
Freedom of the Press: The right of news organizations to publish information without fear of government censorship or retaliation.
Example: Freedom of the press is a fundamental human right, as it allows journalists to hold those in power accountable and to inform citizens of
important issues.
Artistic Freedom: The right of artists to create and express themselves without censorship or restraint.
Example: Artistic freedom is important to foster creativity and self-expression, and to provide diverse perspectives on society and culture.
Media Literacy: The ability to critically evaluate and analyze media messages in order to make informed decisions and judgments.
Example: Media literacy is an important skill for citizens to have in a digital age, as it helps to identify fake news and propaganda, and to navigate the
complex media landscape.

SBS GP Essays - General Vocabulary - Topics &amp; Concepts

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STEP-BY-STEP GP ESSAYS BY PAWENA KANIAH

Meaning: The process of increasing the intensity or severity of a conflict or situation.

Meaning: An organized rebellion or uprising against a government or authority.

Meaning: Extreme patriotism and aggressive foreign policy.

Meaning: A belief in non-violence and opposition to war or militarism.

Homogenisation: the process of making things uniform or similar.

Wealth and Equality in Society:

Income Inequality: the unequal distribution of income within a population.

Privilege: a special advantage, immunity, or right granted to a particular person or group.

Population and Migration:

Xenophobia: an intense or irrational dislike or fear of people from other countries.

Here are some concepts for each topic:

Sport and Leisure:

Work and Employment:

Bare Minimum Monday

Freedom of speech, thought and action

Meaning: The right or condition of self-government or self-determination.

Meaning: Written or spoken communication or debate.

Medical and scientific advances and their ethics

Drug testing, manufacture and provision

Diet, health education and provision of healthcare

Space exploration and its associated industry

Meaning: The manipulation of genes to alter the characteristics of an organism.

Stem cell research

Artificial intelligence in medicine

Natural disasters including mitigation and management

Rural and urban concerns

Food and water security

Natural disasters including mitigation and management:

Disaster risk reduction

Rural and urban concerns:

Food and water security:

Transport, travel and tourism

Tourist carrying capacity

Corporate social responsibility (CSR)

Prior Restraint: Censorship imposed before a speech is made or a newspaper is published.

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SBS GP Essays - General Vocabulary - Topics & Concepts

SBS GP Essays - General Vocabulary - Topics & Concepts