Source enquiry skills; making a judgement Aims: To understand the need to consider several aspects of an issue. To analyse the question and be able to plan a suitable response.

making a judgement The final question in the unit 3 exam will require you to use the sources and your own knowledge to reach a judgement on an issue about surgery during the period studied. This will carry the most marks so do not run out of time and not be able to attempt it.

making a judgement You must build a logical argument that considers both sides of the issue and reaches a final judgement.

making a judgement Use the sources A, B and C, and your own knowledge to explain whether the advance in scientific knowledge was the most important factor in the development of antiseptics. Source A: Form a letter from Lister to Pasteur, Feb 1874 I give you thanks for having, by your brilliant researches, proved to me the truth of the germ theory. You furnished me with the principle upon which alone the antiseptic system can be carried out. Source C; an illustration from W.Cheyne’s book, Antispetic Surgery published in 1882. Source B: from a letter written by Lister to his family shortly after he began at King’s College Hospital, London. The theatre was again well filled and I felt very nervous before the operation, yet I lost all consciousness of the presence of the spectators once I started the operation. Just before I began I remembered that only one Spectator mattered (God) and this thought gave me increase firmness. This question can be found on page 138

Making a judgement Start by analysing the question: What topic knowledge do you need? What does the question want you to do? How do you explain it?

Making a judgement Plan your answer Ensure you weigh up both sides of the issues Ensure you develop and explain your points Ensure you reach a judgement Ensure you have used the sources as well as your own knowledge.

Another example Study Sources A, F and G and use your own knowledge. ‘Lister’s antiseptic methods changed surgical practice in a short period of time.’ How far do you agree with this statement? Use your own knowledge, Sources A, F and G and any other sources you find helpful to explain your answer. (16)

summary There is not usually a ‘right’ answer to these judgement questions, but remember to look at all sides of the issue involved and to back up your answer using evidence from the sources and your own knowledge. You will lose marks if you do not refer to the sources!