Examiner’s Specific Advice

Note that the question asks ‘how far’ the views expressed in one source differ from those put forward in the other. It is important, therefore, to identify both differences and similarities between the sources in order to arrive at an overall conclusion as to how different the sources are. The examiner will be looking for clear, precise and well-selected quotes from the sources which illustrate differences and similarities. Do not give long summaries of both sources as this will earn you very few marks. The question asks about differences in the views of the two sources so be careful to distinguish between the opinions of the authors (views) and mere factual information. The question also asks you to use both the sources and your own knowledge. In order to get to the higher levels you must be able to place these sources in their historical context by providing some background information. This does not have to be extensive but it does need to be accurate and relevant to the question.

Exemplar Question

Read the sources and then answer the questions that follow.

Use Sources A and B and your own knowledge.

1 (01) Explain how far the views in Source B differ from those in Source A in relation to the weakness of Nationalist forces in the Chinese Civil War in the years 1946 to 1949. [12 marks]

Plan

• Identify differences between sources.
• Identify similarities between sources.
• Include contextual information to explain differences/similarities.
• Conclusion, including an overall judgement about the degree of difference/similarity.

 

View Exemplar Answer 1

View Exemplar Answer 2