Section 2: Written Communication
Understanding what's expected in the GAMSAT Section 2 exam
Overview
Section 2 of the GAMSAT assesses your ability to communicate ideas effectively in written form. You will be required to write two essays, each responding to a set of quotes or prompts provided.
Time Allocation
Total time: 60 minutes
Per essay: 30 minutes
Recommended: 5 minutes planning, 20 minutes writing, 5 minutes review
Word Count
Target: 400-600 words per essay
Minimum: Aim for at least 300 words
Quality over quantity: Well-developed arguments matter more than length
What You'll Receive
Five Quotes or Prompts
For each essay, you will be provided with five quotes, statements, or prompts. These are typically related to a common theme or topic. You are expected to engage with these materials in your response.
No Prescribed Topics
Unlike traditional essay exams, GAMSAT Section 2 does not provide a specific question to answer. Instead, you must identify themes, develop your own argument, and demonstrate your ability to think critically about the provided materials.
Assessment Criteria
1. Engagement with Materials
Your essay should demonstrate that you have understood and engaged with the provided quotes or prompts. This doesn't mean you must reference all five quotes, but you should show awareness of the themes and ideas they present. Quality engagement is more important than quantity of references.
2. Development of Ideas
Examiners look for essays that develop ideas thoughtfully and coherently. Your argument should be well-structured with clear progression from introduction through body paragraphs to conclusion. Each paragraph should build upon the previous one, creating a logical flow of ideas.
3. Expression and Style
Your writing should be clear, precise, and appropriate for an academic context. While you don't need to use overly complex vocabulary, your language should be sophisticated enough to convey nuanced ideas. Grammar, spelling, and punctuation matter, but minor errors won't significantly impact your score if your ideas are strong.
4. Critical Thinking
The GAMSAT values candidates who can think critically and independently. Rather than simply agreeing with the quotes, consider multiple perspectives, question assumptions, and develop your own informed viewpoint. Show that you can analyse ideas, not just describe them.
Common Themes and Topics
While GAMSAT Section 2 can cover any topic, certain themes appear frequently:
Note: These themes are not exhaustive. The exam can cover any topic, so it's important to be able to engage with diverse ideas and perspectives.
Tips for Success
Read all quotes carefully
Take time to understand the connections between the quotes and identify the underlying theme or question they're exploring.
Plan before you write
Spend 5 minutes outlining your argument. A clear structure will make your essay more coherent and easier to write.
Develop your own perspective
Don't just summarise the quotes. Show that you can think independently and develop a thoughtful argument that engages with the materials.
Use examples effectively
Support your arguments with relevant examples from literature, history, current events, or personal experience. Quality examples are more important than quantity.
Manage your time
With only 30 minutes per essay, time management is crucial. Practice writing under timed conditions to develop your ability to write efficiently without sacrificing quality.
Write clearly and concisely
Clear, well-structured writing is more valuable than complex but confusing prose. Focus on making your ideas accessible and your argument easy to follow.
How to Practice
⏱️ Timed Writing Practice
Simulate exam conditions with our timed practice feature. Practice writing two essays in 60 minutes to build your time management skills and get comfortable with the exam format.
Start Timed Practice →💡 Assisted Writing Practice
PremiumPractice writing at your own pace with intelligent nudges to help you when you're stuck. This is perfect for developing your ideas and structure without the pressure of a timer.
Start Assisted Practice →Official Information
For the most up-to-date and official information about GAMSAT Section 2, please refer to the official ACER GAMSAT Information Booklet.
📄View Official GAMSAT Information Booklet↗