identify and analyse issues, arguments and perspectives

In Global Perspectives you’ll often be asked to identify and analyse issues, arguments and perspectives. Think of it like being a detective 🕵️‍♂️: you gather clues, weigh evidence, and decide what the story really is.

What is research?

Research is the systematic collection and analysis of information to answer a question or solve a problem. It can be primary (new data you gather) or secondary (information already published).

• Primary: Surveys, interviews, experiments.
• Secondary: Articles, reports, books.

Remember: Credibility matters. Check the source’s authority, date, and bias.

What is an issue?

An issue is a problem or point of debate that affects people or society. It often has multiple sides.

1. Spot the problem: Look for words like “problem”, “challenge”, “conflict”.
2. Ask who is affected: Who benefits? Who loses?
3. Consider the context: Time, place, culture.

Example: The debate over climate change is an issue because it involves science, politics, and economics.

Structure of an argument

Analogy: Think of an argument like a sandwich. The claim is the bread, evidence is the filling, the warrant is the spread that keeps it together, and the counterclaim is the extra layer that adds flavour.

Why evaluate?

Different people see the same issue differently. Evaluating perspectives helps you understand bias, values, and the strength of arguments.

1. Identify the perspective: Who is speaking? What are their interests?
2. Check for bias: Does the source favour one side?
3. Assess evidence: Is it reliable and relevant?
4. Compare: How does this perspective differ from others?

Example: In a debate about school uniforms, a teacher might value discipline, while a student might value self-expression.

How to answer exam questions

• Read the question carefully – look for verbs like identify, analyse, evaluate.
• Plan your answer in 2–3 minutes: note key points and structure.
• Use the Claim‑Evidence‑Warrant framework for arguments.
• Show you can compare perspectives – mention at least two viewpoints.
• Keep your writing clear and concise; aim for 200–250 words for short answers.

Remember: Show, don’t just tell. Use specific examples and evidence.

Research, analysis and evaluation are like building a strong bridge over the river of information:

• Research gives you the stones (data).
• Analysis arranges them into a solid structure.
• Evaluation checks the bridge’s safety for all users.

Practice by reading news articles, noting claims, evidence, and perspectives. Then try to explain the issue to a friend – that’s a great way to test your understanding!