Examiner’s Specific Advice

This question requires an essay-type answer, so it is quite demanding. You must use both the sources and your own knowledge to get to a high level. In the process of displaying your knowledge and understanding of the topic, there is no obligation to use all three sources equally. However, you should refer to the sources, either with brief quotations or by selectively paraphrasing their arguments as appropriate. To earn the highest marks you must answer the specific question, with a judgement. It is not enough just to describe the role of Thieu in the collapse of the South and the end of US involvement in Vietnam in 1973–75, although of course this information is relevant. You must relate what you know about the various factors that were pushing the Americans towards withdrawal. You might also consider whether the long-term factors before 1973 were important, such as the weaknesses of the South, the strength of the North, or the wider political situation in the US.

The key thing is that you back up your arguments with evidence, reaching a clear and balanced assessment of the relative importance of Thieu alongside other factors. It is entirely up to you whether you state your argument clearly at the start of your answer, or let the conclusion arrive naturally towards the end having discussed all your evidence. But do remember, good answers are those that are relevant, do more than just describe events or state facts, and answer the specific question directly. There is no ideal length, but a good answer is often a concise one!

Exemplar Question

Read the sources and then answer the questions that follow.

Use Sources A, B and C and your own knowledge.

1 (02) How far was President Thieu responsible for the collapse of South Vietnam between January 1973 and April 1975? [24 marks]

Plan

• Introduction: the political context of the peace talks
• The situation of the war at the beginning of 1973
• Weaknesses in the South Vietnamese army and Thieu’s regime
• The importance of other factors
• Evidence selected from the sources
• Conclusion/judgement: how far was Thieu responsible for the collapse?

View Exemplar Answer 1

View Exemplar Answer 2