How to tackle the 4 mark describing key features questions

Learning objective – to be able to improve responses to a 4 mark describing question. I can describe key factors. Grade 3 I can explain the significance of key factors. Grade 6 I can explain and assess the degree of significance of key factors. Grade 9

Describe two features of Mickey’s Shelter which made them a better place to shelter. Describe two features of London that made it a target to attack. Describe two features of the Cabinet War Rooms that made them important during the Second World War. [4 marks]

Key points to consider Make sure you focus on the demands of the question. Identify two key features and use separate paragraphs for each one. For each feature write one or two sentences to describe the point using supporting knowledge. Remember your answer only needs three paragraphs – a short introduction and then two paragraphs on each feature. Your short introduction should only be a sentence and include the big point – the similarity or difference you are going to explain. Don’t write too much – you don’t need a conclusion, you don’t need to explain and you don’t need more than two features.

How was the government able to defeat the Northern Rebellion? Why did it fail? Earls were poor leaders Unclear aims – replace Elizabeth or just free Mary? Limited support Effective government reaction

What was the significance of the Northern Rebellion? It was the first and most serious rebellious act by English Catholics. The lack of domestic support for the rebels as well as the eventual size of the Royal army demonstrated the popularity of Elizabeth. It led to harsher treatment of English Catholics, such as \the Earl of Huntingdon’s measures in surpressing Catholicism in the north. The revolt encouraged Pope Pius VI to excommunicate Elizabeth. His papal Bull not only excommunicated Elizabeth but also encouraged her assassination. This marked a turning point in the relationship between Elizabeth and Catholics, who now became a greater threat to her.

Plenary – a touch of Scrabble The mystery word that relates to this lesson is worth ...... 12 points ..... Using the Scrabble score card, can you work out which word it is?