1. The Assignment New Higher History

2. What is the assignment?
An essay which you will research and write yourself
It is worth 30 marks – 1/3 of your final mark for Higher
YOU choose the topic for the essay
YOU carry out the research
YOU write the essay with some support from teacher
You learn the essay and write it up in a 1.5 hour exam

3. Two Stages
Research and Preparation 8 hours class time Write Up exam 1.5 hours All additional work on essay will be done at home/ in your own time

4. How marks are awarded Essay component Marks awarded
Placing the issue in context – your detailed introduction
3 marks
Analysis = answering the question
7 marks
Evaluation of factors = which are the most/less important factors
5 marks
Using historical sources to support factors
4 marks
KU = correct factual information
8 marks
Conclusion = not a summary but weighing up all the factors

5. The Resource Sheet
During the write up session you may take in one A4 sheet to support your essay writing
There is a 250 word limit
You may include
Evidence/ data/ bullet points/ mind maps/ headings/ notes from sources/ quotes

6. Your Question Example: Describe the Nazi Party policies.
Not an acceptable essay question because there is no argument here – you are using a low order skill of ‘describing’ and therefore there will be little opportunity for analysis/ evaluation etc.
Example: To what extent were the policies of the Nazi party the main reason for their rise to power by 1933?
Yes – lots of analysis and evaluation opportunities allowing you to build up an argument.