NEA Feedback
Introduction Outline historical interpretations linked to the question. Where appropriate link differing historical interpretations/views to those of key historians you are focusing upon. Outline the different themes/factors that you will focus upon in your analysis as this will help give structure to your piece. Hint at/outline your view. “Historians are divided upon the impact of War on Russia’s development. Some, such as Trotsky, see it as a key catalyst for change whereas others such as Figes, although seeing war as important, give greater credence to factors such as institutional weakness or economic change. I am inclined to believe the latter view is more accurate as war did have a major impact but only when combined with other factors.
Historiography Choose academic historians. Try to ensure you have contrasting views. Clearly outline the chosen Historians view in relation to your question. Analyse this view by relevant comment on the context, purpose, limitations if the Historian. AVOID STOCK ANALYSIS COMMENTS and support points. Professor X views Stalin as the most repressive leader “Stalin achieved feats of repression unparalleled by other rulers”. Given Stalin’s use of Gulags and the Purges this view is quite typical in many respects. However Writing in 1970 at the height of the Cold War such a harsh view of Stalin is perhaps not to be unexpected because … Furthermore Prof X did not have access to the Soviet archives in the same way as later revisionist Historian who often take a softer view of Stalin’s repression seeing it as having greater continuity with previous rulers than Prof X.
Main Paragraphs – BE analytical Make sure each paragraph section has a clear theme/factor. Use topic sentences and summative sentences to ensure an analytical focus. Try to contrast or use historians views in combination, clearly link these into your own knowledge/argument. In contrast/On the other hand/This is given credence by/historians concur/This suggest that/therefore/as a results its fair to say/ Try to contrast events/views across rulers/periods rather than going ruler by ruler or event by event – linking and contrasting vents/rulers will make your answer more analytical
Sources Include at least 3 sources of different types across the NEA. Clearly reference these and highlight i.e. One source suggests… Analyse these like you would in paper 2. Evaluate by cross reference to Historians/Own knowledge. Integrate them into yours answer and use them to discuss your argument.
Conclusion Reach and support one with key evidence. Incorporate the views of your key historians into this where possible – who is more correct???
Bibliography and references Bibliography - Add one at the end! Also list your three sources and their references at the end. Make sure all quotes, sources and key stats are referenced.