Mastering the different question types that arise in the H2 History A-Levels is essential to excel in this subject. This article aims to shed light on the five question types that have emerged since the implementation of the current H2 History syllabus. Gaining a strong understanding of each question type and learning effective approaches to address them will undoubtedly elevate your performance in the A-Levels.
1. Causation Questions
Causation questions delve into the identification and evaluation of factors that have shaped specific historical outcomes.
Past A-Level Question: "How far do you agree that the rise of Western Europe and Japan was the most critical factor in bringing about the golden age of capitalism from 1945-1973?" (2020 A-Level Question, Paper 1). Find more A-Level questions here.
To excel in tackling these questions, employ the following strategies:
a. Identify key factors: Begin by pinpointing the key factors relevant to the outcome.
b. Analyse each factor: Thoroughly assess the significance of each factor in contributing to the historical context, considering strengths, weaknesses, and limitations.
c. Provide a balanced argument: Construct a well-structured essay that discusses both the importance and limitations of each factor. Additionally, explore the interplay between different factors for a nuanced analysis.
Relevant analytical language you can use for this set of questions:
Exarcebated | Sparked | Short-term | Long-term | Catalyst |
2. Consequences Questions
Consequences questions focus on examining the outcomes of historical events.
Past A-Level Question: "Government responses turned a financial panic into a social crisis. Evaluate this judgment on the AFC." (2018 A-Level question, Paper 2)
To effectively approach such questions, follow these guidelines:
a. Identify the event or action: Clearly identify the historical event in question, such as government responses during the AFC.
b. Evaluate the judgment: Analyse the given judgment statement and critically assess its accuracy, considering positive and negative consequences and their significance.
c. Support with evidence: Strengthen your arguments with historical evidence, including specific examples, to demonstrate the implications of the consequences.
Relevant analytical language you can use for this set of questions:
Unprecedented | Widespread | Long-term | Transformative |
3. Change and Continuity Questions
Change and continuity questions explore historical developments over time.
Example A-Level Question: "Changes to the structure of the UN after 1945 made it a more effective body in dealing with international crises in the period up to 1990. HFDYA?" (2018 A-Level Question, Paper 1)
To handle these questions adeptly, adhere to these steps:
a. Identify the period of focus: Clearly specify the time period under consideration, such as changes to the structure of the UN from 1945 to 1990.
b. Identify changes and continuities: Highlight significant changes and continuities that occurred during the specified period.
c. Evaluate impact: Assess the importance of these changes and continuities in shaping historical outcomes, institutions, or events during that timeframe.
Relevant analytical language you can use for this set of questions:
Unprecedented | Widespread | Long term | Transformative |
4. Similarity and Difference Questions
Similarity and difference questions involve the comparison of distinct historical entities.
Example A-Level Question: "To what extent were there more similarities than differences in the policies of SEA states towards their minorities?" (2017 A-Level Question, Paper 2)
To effectively address these questions, follow these strategies:
a. Identify entities or situations: Clearly identify the groups or entities being compared, such as policies of SEA states towards their minorities.
b. Compare and contrast: Highlight both the similarities and differences between the identified entities or situations.
c. Determine significance: Assess the significance of these similarities and differences in shaping historical developments or relationships.
Relevant analytical language you can use for this set of questions:
Fundamental | Symbolic | Narrow | Widespread |
5. Significance Questions
Significance questions gauge the importance of specific historical factors or events.
Past A-Level Question: "How significant was the role of centralized planning in promoting industrialization in SEA states before 1997?" (2019 A-Level Question, Paper 2)
To approach such questions effectively, consider the following:
a. Identify the factor or event: Clearly identify the historical factor under scrutiny, such as centralized planning in promoting industrialization in SEA states before 1997.
b. Assess the impact: Evaluate the significance of the factor or event on the historical context, outcomes, or broader developments.
c. Consider multiple perspectives: Offer a comprehensive analysis of the factor or event's significance by exploring different viewpoints.
Relevant analytical language you can use for this set of questions:
Unprecedented | Widespread | Long term | Transformative |
By mastering these five question types and employing thoughtful and analytical approaches, you will be well-equipped to excel in your H2 History A-Levels.
If you need more assistance with H2 History, feel free to check out the H2 History Guides, which contains model essays, notes and study materials.
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