Summary
Article writing involves presenting your views on a topic, such as the death penalty, in a structured and persuasive manner. You should evaluate different perspectives and provide your own opinion.
- Referendum — a general vote by the electorate on a single political question. Example: A referendum was held to decide on the re-introduction of the death penalty.
- Capital Punishment — the legally authorized killing of someone as a punishment for a crime. Example: Capital punishment is often debated in terms of its moral and legal implications.
- Deterrent — something that discourages or is intended to discourage someone from doing something. Example: Some argue that the death penalty serves as a deterrent to serious crimes.
- Wrongful Conviction — a conviction of a person accused of a crime which, in the result of a later investigation, proves erroneous. Example: The risk of wrongful conviction is a major argument against the death penalty.
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- Referendum: a vote on a specific political question
- Capital Punishment: execution as a legal penalty
- Deterrent: a measure to discourage actions
- Wrongful Conviction: incorrect conviction of an innocent person
Common Confusions
- Confusing capital punishment with life imprisonment
- Misunderstanding the role of a referendum in decision-making
Typical Exam Questions
- What is a referendum? A general vote by the electorate on a specific issue.
- How does capital punishment act as a deterrent? It is believed to discourage people from committing serious crimes.
- What are the risks of wrongful conviction? Innocent people may be executed due to errors in the legal system.
What Examiners Usually Test
- Ability to evaluate different viewpoints on controversial topics
- Skill in presenting a clear and structured argument
- Use of persuasive language and evidence to support opinions