How to attack a Paper 1
Question 1a: Historical Comprehension [3 marks] = 5 minutes
Question 1b: Historical Comprehension [2 marks] = 5 minutes
Question 2: Evaluating Sources: OPCVL [4 marks] = 12-14 minutes
O(Origin) P(Purpose) C(Content) V(Value) L(Limitation)
(O+P+C)(V+L)
The origin of source C is (who, when, where). The purpose of the source is (why was it made? to persuade? inform? influence? argue? etc.). The content of the source is (what does the source say about the topic?). There is value in the source based in origin, purpose, content. There are limitations in the source based in origin, purpose, content.
Question 3: Compare and contrast [6 marks] = 12-14 minutes
Paragraph 1 (Compare): Both Source A and D agree that...Source a states that...and Source D states that...Both sources agree that...because Source A says "quote"...and Source D states "quote."
Paragraph 2 (Contrast): The sources contrast by....While Source D says...., Source A says...
Use transitional and connective phrases to show differences such as: however, in contrast, whereas, this fact is ignored in source...etc.
Question 4: Mini Essay [9 marks] 20 minutes
Tips for Time Management:
- Question is testing reading comprehension and requires you to write about the message of the source i.e. what the source is telling you.
- It is worth 3 marks so you should try for at least 3 main points, 4 if you have time. Don't spend more than 5 minutes on this question.
- Paraphrase parts of the text. You can include short sections of quotations, but don't include large chunks from the text because it takes time and doesn't show the examiner what you understood from the source.
Question 1b: Historical Comprehension [2 marks] = 5 minutes
- This question also requires demonstration of "reading comprehension" through analysis of an image or cartoon.
- It is worth 2 marks, so aim for 2 separate points about the message of the cartoon/image.
- Use evidence from the cartoon/image to support your points.
Question 2: Evaluating Sources: OPCVL [4 marks] = 12-14 minutes
O(Origin) P(Purpose) C(Content) V(Value) L(Limitation)
(O+P+C)(V+L)
- Address the OPCVL of the source listed
- The origin of all sources will be listed at the top of the source in italics.
- Be specific: avoid general statements about content, purpose, and origin and the values and limitations of the source.
The origin of source C is (who, when, where). The purpose of the source is (why was it made? to persuade? inform? influence? argue? etc.). The content of the source is (what does the source say about the topic?). There is value in the source based in origin, purpose, content. There are limitations in the source based in origin, purpose, content.
Question 3: Compare and contrast [6 marks] = 12-14 minutes
- Be sure to compare and contrast the sources in the criteria/specific factors outlined in the question e.g. Compare and contrast sources A and D in terms of...
- Compare = similarities = 1st paragraph, 2-3 points
- Contrast = differences = 2nd paragraph, 2-3 points
- Make sure to make running commentary of both sources in relation to one another. You should not address the sources separately. A good way to approach this is to write about concept/content that one source is making, immediately and directly after this write about the second source making either a similar or different point.
- Read the sources carefully and underline key quotes you will use (or parts of quotes you will use)
Paragraph 1 (Compare): Both Source A and D agree that...Source a states that...and Source D states that...Both sources agree that...because Source A says "quote"...and Source D states "quote."
Paragraph 2 (Contrast): The sources contrast by....While Source D says...., Source A says...
Use transitional and connective phrases to show differences such as: however, in contrast, whereas, this fact is ignored in source...etc.
Question 4: Mini Essay [9 marks] 20 minutes
- Refer to all of the sources in your response, plus your own detailed knowledge - you need to do both of these in this mini-essay otherwise you may not receive marks.
- You must answer the question just like you would a normal essay prompt
- Use the sources as evidence to support your points
- Before starting question: Reread the sources; Plan your response; Work out thesis or line of argument.
- No need for an intro. Get straight to the point and answer the question.
- Be sure to show a balance between your own arguments and those of the varied opinions in the documents.
Tips for Time Management:
- Be sure to manage your time based on the suggestions listed above.
- Memorize the structure of the questions. Knowing what to expect before going into the exam will be helpful.