Improved response - script A The most important thing about Harold’s claim to the English throne in 1066 was his support from the English lords. Harold’s family were the most powerful in England. They controlled every earldom except Mercia. They were also the richest – richer than the King himself. The Witan largely supported the Godwins. Another important thing about Harold’s position in the succession crisis was that he had the right experience to qualify as the next King of England. In the 1050’s he had been Edward’s sub-regulus. He also had military experience. Harold had one a great victory against Gruffyd, the King of North Wales, which had led to Gruffyd’s men turning on their king and killing him. This was important because there were no set rules for who took over when a King died in England, so it was often the contender with the most support from the Witan who succeeded. Due to this support from the English lords, Harold could proclaim himself King immediately after Edward’s death. This was important because through his role as sub-regulus and his military experience, he was acting on the King’s behalf and shows the great trust the King placed in him. With this trust from Edward, as well as his military strengths not only made his own claim to be King stronger, but also meant that he was in a good position to defeat his rivals for the throne in battle.

What lessons can be learned from the script? Knowledge is not the most important thing in the history exam – it is the application of this knowledge and addressing the question. If a student explains one factor and identifies another – this will warrant a Low Level 3 score To get a student to achieve a level 3 they need to identify, describe and explain 2 factors/aspects (essentially 2 PEE or PEEL paragraphs)

Key tips to help you to achieve a Level 3 Making sure that you say both HOW and WHY Re-writing the question / statement – ‘This was important because…’ Following simple structures like PEE or PEEL Using connectives such as ‘because’ Remember the rule of two Always identify and explain two reasons for importance Looking at importance in the short and long-term

Explain what was important about… (8 marks) Aspect 1 Aspect 2 – POINT Make a point (Why was… important?) Make a point (Why else was… important?) EVIDENCE Give evidence to support it EXPLANATION Explain how your evidence supports your point (The impact of this was... How and Why was it important? This was important because…)