how to write AICE History paper 2

What are the two types of questions in Paper 2 essay questions?

(a) Questions asking to explain an event or why something happened, and (b) questions requiring a judgement on causes or consequences.

What does question (a) typically ask you to explain?

It asks you to explain an event or why something happened.

What key elements should you include in your answer to question (a) about the Civil War?

Two reasons for the war lasting four years, the importance of those reasons, which is more important, and an overall view.

In question (b), what are you Evaluating regarding ex-slaves by 1877?

You assess improvements in their position during Reconstruction, how much their situation improved, situations that didn’t improve, and weigh if improvements outweighed non-improvements.

What should you avoid in your essay responses according to the guidelines?

Avoid irrelevance, simply writing all you know about the topic, and purely descriptive answers.

What is critical to remember when writing analytical answers?

Answers should directly link to the question and provide analysis rather than just describe events.

What does a strong opening sentence in an essay do?

It offers a view or idea about an issue relevant to the question, setting the tone for the argument.

What is the purpose of the conclusion in an essay?

To come to a judgement based on what has already been written, briefly supported, without introducing new ideas.

What should the conclusion avoid introducing?

New arguments or ideas that were not discussed earlier in the essay.

What should you do at the end of your conclusion regarding your stance?

Clearly express your judgement so the reader knows your position.