Tips for Answering BECE Social Studies Theory Questions: Sample Questions and Answers

Improve your chances of success in the BECE Social Studies theory exam with these tips on how to answer questions effectively, along with sample questions and answers.

The Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) in Social Studies is an important exam for students in the final year of Junior High School in Ghana.

The exam tests a student’s knowledge of the country’s history, geography, culture, economy, and government.

In this article, we will discuss how to answer BECE Social Studies theory questions effectively, provide sample questions, and give sample answers.

1. Read the questions carefully The first step in answering any exam question is to read the question carefully. You need to make sure that you understand what the question is asking you to do. For example, if the question asks you to “describe” something, you need to provide a detailed explanation. If the question asks you to “explain” something, you need to provide a detailed explanation and include reasons for your answer. If the question asks you to “compare” something, you need to highlight the similarities and differences between the two things.
2. Understand the context of the question The context of the question is important because it can give you clues as to what the examiner is looking for. For example, if the question is about the Ghanaian economy, you should think about the different sectors of the economy and how they contribute to the country’s overall economic growth. Understanding the context will help you to structure your answer in a way that is relevant to the question.
3. Plan your answer Before you start writing your answer, it is important to plan what you are going to say. This will help you to organize your thoughts and ensure that you include all the relevant information. One way to plan your answer is to create an outline. This could include a brief introduction, main points to cover, and a conclusion.
4. Use relevant examples Using examples to illustrate your points can help to make your answer more convincing. For example, if the question is about the role of traditional rulers in Ghanaian society, you could use examples of the different roles that traditional rulers play in different regions of the country.
5. Use relevant vocabulary Using appropriate vocabulary can demonstrate your knowledge of the subject and make your answer more sophisticated. For example, if the question is about the causes of deforestation in Ghana, using terms such as “commercial logging” and “slash-and-burn agriculture” can show that you understand the different factors that contribute to deforestation.

Sample Questions and Answers

Question 1: Explain the impact of colonialism on Ghana’s education system.

Answer: Colonialism had a significant impact on Ghana’s education system. During the colonial era, education was primarily aimed at producing clerks, interpreters, and other low-level administrative staff to serve the colonial government.

This meant that the education system was focused on providing basic literacy and numeracy skills, rather than on developing critical thinking or creativity.

After independence, Ghana’s government embarked on a program of educational reform aimed at increasing access to education and improving the quality of teaching.

This included the introduction of free primary education, the establishment of teacher-training colleges, and the creation of new universities. Today, Ghana has one of the most highly educated populations in Africa, with a literacy rate of over 70%.

Question 2: Describe the functions of the Executive Arm of Government in Ghana.

Answer: The Executive Arm of Government in Ghana is responsible for implementing government policies and managing the day-to-day affairs of the country. This arm of government is headed by the President, who is assisted by the Vice President and a team of ministers.

The functions of the Executive Arm of Government in Ghana include:

1. Formulating and implementing government policies The Executive Arm of Government is responsible for developing policies and programs that promote the social, economic, and political development of the country. This includes policies related to agriculture, health, education, and infrastructure development.
2. Managing the national budget The Executive Arm of Government is responsible for managing the country’s finances, including developing the national budget and ensuring that government spending is in line with budgetary constraints.
3. Implementing laws and regulations The Executive Arm of Government is responsible for implementing laws and regulations passed by the legislature. This includes enforcing regulations related to public safety, consumer protection, and environmental protection.
4. Representing Ghana on the international stage The President and other members of the Executive Arm of Government are responsible for representing Ghana in international affairs. This includes attending meetings of international organizations, negotiating international agreements, and promoting Ghana’s interests on the world stage.

Question 3: Compare and contrast traditional and modern methods of farming in Ghana.

Answer: Traditional farming methods in Ghana are characterized by the use of simple tools such as hoes and machetes and the reliance on manual labor.

Traditional farmers often practice subsistence farming, growing crops mainly for their own consumption. Traditional farming methods also involve the use of organic fertilizers such as animal manure and compost.

Modern farming methods, on the other hand, are characterized by the use of modern agricultural technologies such as tractors, irrigation systems, and chemical fertilizers.

Modern farmers often practice commercial farming, growing crops for sale in local and international markets. Modern farming methods also involve the use of hybrid seeds and genetically modified crops, which are designed to increase yields and resist pests and diseases.

One similarity between traditional and modern farming methods is that both rely on the availability of land, water, and other natural resources.

Both methods also require farmers to have knowledge and skills in order to be successful.

One difference between traditional and modern farming methods is that traditional farming is often done on a small scale, while modern farming is often done on a large scale.

Another difference is that traditional farming methods tend to be more environmentally friendly, while modern farming methods often involve the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which can have negative environmental impacts.

In conclusion, answering BECE Social Studies theory questions effectively requires careful reading of the question, understanding the context, planning your answer, using relevant examples, and using appropriate vocabulary.

By following these tips and practicing with sample questions, you can improve your chances of success in the exam.

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