Section A · 50 marks
Source-based questions
Two source-based revolution questions, 25 marks each. Each contains short-answer parts and an 8–10 mark extended response.
VCAA-aligned technique
Exam skills
Turn command terms, evidence, and historical thinking into deliberate exam responses.
Current examination
Know the task before writing
15 minutes reading · 2 hours writing · 70 marks
Section B · 20 marks
Historical essay
One 20-mark essay on one studied revolution.
Command terms
Translate the question into moves
Learn these in the context of actual historical tasks.
outline
Provide an overview or the main features.
In History: Cover several central ideas in connected sentences; use brief source language when a source is supplied.
analyse
Identify elements and explain the significance of relationships between them.
In History: Show how and why evidence connects to a cause, consequence, change, perspective, or outcome.
explain
Give a detailed account of why or how and make relationships evident.
In History: Build a causal chain rather than listing facts.
evaluate
Make a judgement using criteria, evidence, and knowledge.
In History: Weigh importance, limitations, and counter-evidence before reaching a qualified judgement.
compare
Recognise similarities and differences and explain their significance.
In History: Use the same criteria for both cases and state why the comparison matters.
discuss
Present a considered and balanced argument showing strengths and weaknesses or points for and against.
In History: Organise competing explanations around a clear final position.
Examiner pattern
What stronger responses consistently do
- Answer the command term actually set; an outline is not a list of quotations.
- Use a short quotation as a springboard, then contextualise, corroborate, or challenge it with precise own knowledge.
- Do not import own knowledge when a question asks only for ideas in the source.
- For analytical parts, move beyond the supplied source to other relevant causes, consequences, or experiences.
- Conclude by reconnecting the evidence to both the source and the exact question.
- Prefer a small number of precise, well-explained examples over an undeveloped catalogue.
Essay criteria
Four things the assessor is judging
Construct a coherent and relevant historical argument addressing the exact question.
Use accurate and appropriate historical knowledge.
Apply historical thinking concepts such as cause and consequence, continuity and change, and historical significance.
Use primary sources, historical perspectives, and historical interpretations as evidence.