Mastering Paper 1: IB History Exam

Overview

• Designed to be a skills test over knowledge.
• Importance of practicing skills and knowing exam questions.
• Time management is critical (60 minutes total).

Understanding Paper 1

• Prescribed subject chosen by the teacher (e.g., Move to Global War).
• Focus on case studies (e.g., Japan, Italy, Germany pre-WWII).
• Source-based assessment akin to a DBQ.
• Counts for 20% (HL) or 30% (SL) of the IB History grade.

Exam Structure

Reading Period

• 5-minute no-writing reading period to familiarize with sources and questions.
• 4 sources provided, typically 3 written and 1 visual (often a political cartoon).

Question Breakdown

Question 1

• Two parts: a 3-mark written source analysis and a 2-mark visual source analysis.
• Focus on extracting key ideas and understanding the source.
• Aim for around 10 minutes.

Question 2: Source Analysis

• Analyze one source's values and limitations (4 marks).
• Consider the origin, purpose, and content.
• Structured in three paragraphs:
  • Origin: Value and limitations.
  • Purpose: Value and limitations.
  • Content: Value and limitations.
• Ensure all bases are covered.

Question 3: Compare and Contrast

• Compare two sources, focusing on similarities and differences (6 marks).
• Two separate paragraphs for similarities and differences.
• Differences by omission can be acknowledged.

Question 4: Evaluative Essay

• Leave 25 minutes for this 9-mark question.
• Requires analytical and evaluative essay writing.
• Incorporate both source information and personal knowledge.
• Structure:
  • Introduction: Thesis and roadmap.
  • Body Paragraphs: Arguments supported by documents and additional knowledge.
  • Address counterarguments using sources.

Tips for Success

• Practice throughout the year to master timing and question types.
• Know the prescribed subject order to avoid wasting time.
• Aim to leave ample time for the essay in question 4.

Conclusion

• Preparation and practice are key to success.
• A strong performance on Paper 1 sets a positive foundation for Papers 2 and 3.
• Approach the exam with confidence and a clear plan.