The 8 Mark "Write an Account" Question: Medieval England (Q3)
The PEE Structure: A strong answer should be composed of two Point-Evidence-Explanation paragraphs. Each paragraph should focus on a distinct aspect of the prompt and maintain a high level of analytical detail.
Point: Clearly state the specific development or event being analyzed and its relevance to the question's focus.
Evidence: Provide 'specific and relevant' historical knowledge. This should include precise names, dates, or legislation (e.g., the Statute of Winchester) to ground the analysis in fact.
Explanation: This is the most critical part. Use causation connectives such as 'as a result', 'consequently', or 'due to' to link the evidence back to the question and the wider historical context.
| Aspect | Narrative (Low Level) | Account (High Level) |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Describing what happened. | Explaining why and how it happened. |
| Structure | A chronological story or list. | Analytical paragraphs with clear causal links. |
| Impact | Limited to the immediate event. | Connects to the 'wider development' of the course. |
| Knowledge | Generalized or vague. | Specific, accurate, and detailed facts. |
Timing: You have approximately 10 minutes to write this answer. Spend 1-2 minutes planning the two key points you will use to ensure they have enough 'meat' for a PEE structure.
Avoid the 'Story' Trap: Do not just tell the story of what happened. Examiners are looking for phrases like 'this was important because...' or 'this led to...' rather than just 'and then...'.
Focus on the Prompt: Ensure every sentence relates back to the specific group, event, or development named in the question. If asked about the legal system, do not drift into talking about the economy unless there is a direct causal link.
Double Impact: Aim to show two ways in which the event was significant or two steps in the sequence to fulfill the 'complex explanation' requirement for higher levels.
The Narrative Fallacy: Many students believe 'writing an account' means writing a story. In history exams, an 'account' is an analytical explanation that evaluates links and significance.
Lack of Specificity: Using vague terms like 'the people' or 'things changed' instead of identifying specific groups (e.g., the nobility, the Jewish community) or specific laws will limit marks to Level 1 or 2.
Ignoring the Wider Course: Failing to mention how an event impacted the rest of Edward I's reign or the development of English society prevents students from accessing the highest mark band (Level 4).