❓Question Types: Paper 2 tests how you handle evidence, significance, comparison and long-term change. Each question targets a different historical skill – here’s how to approach them clearly and confidently.
Section A – Thematic Study (4 compulsory questions, 40 marks)
How useful is Source … ? (8 marks)
Focus on what the source shows and how reliable it is.
Use content + provenance + context:
Identify what the source tells you about the topic.
Use your knowledge to explain what it reveals or misses.
Finish with a balanced line – “Useful to a great/some/limited extent because …”.
Mention both value and limitation.
Explain the significance of … (8 marks)
Choose two clear points that show why the person/event/development mattered.
Use the chain Point → Evidence → Explanation → Impact.
Example: “The discovery of penicillin was significant because it changed …, leading to … .”
End by linking back to wider change.
Explain two ways in which X and Y were similar or different (8 marks)
Compare the two topics directly.
Structure → 1 paragraph per similarity/difference.
Use linking phrases such as “While X …, Y …”.
Include evidence for each and explain why that difference or similarity is important.
Essay question using factors (20 marks + 4 SPaG)
Plan first: choose three main factors (social, political, technological, etc.).
Each paragraph = Point → Evidence → Analysis → Mini-judgement.
Conclude with a clear statement of which factor was most significant and why.
SPaG marks reward clear spelling and paragraphing.
Section B – British Depth Study with Interpretations (4 compulsory questions, 40 marks)
How far do you agree with this statement? (8 marks)
Show both sides briefly, then make a decision.
Para 1 – Evidence that supports the statement.
Para 2 – Evidence that challenges it.
End with: “Overall, I agree to a [great/some/limited] extent because …”.
Explain … (8 marks)
Give two clear reasons or effects.
Each paragraph = Point → Evidence → Explanation.
Keep detail tight and link directly to the focus of the question.
Write an account … (8 marks)
Tell the story of how an event unfolded or developed.
Use chronological order and connect each stage logically – show cause and consequence, not just narration.
Include at least three specific details (dates, names or outcomes).
Essay question linked to specified site (16 marks)
Refer to what the site shows about people, power or events from the period.
Combine precise site evidence (features, purpose, context) with wider historical knowledge.
Finish with a short judgement: what the site reveals overall and why it is important.
Command Words in AQA History Paper 2
- Describe / Identify – give short, factual details.
- Explain / Account for – show clear reasons or effects.
- Analyse / Evaluate / How useful / How far do you agree – weigh evidence and judge reliability or significance.
- Assess / Discuss / Evaluate factors – compare and prioritise causes before reaching a conclusion.
Understanding exactly what each word demands helps you plan fast and hit every mark band.
Ready to practise? Each question type links to a Primrose Kitten course with model answers, examiner tips and timed practice tasks.