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IGCSE History 4HI1 specification
Edexcel IGCSE History Paper 1
🏛️ Your Guide to Edexcel International GCSE History Revision
History isn’t just about memorising dates - it’s about understanding stories, causes and consequences that shaped the world 🌍. If you’re sitting the Edexcel International GCSE in History, this guide will walk you through the exam structure and give you top revision tips to help you succeed. Let’s dive in 📖.
📑 How Many Papers Are There?
There are two exam papers for Edexcel IGCSE History. Both papers test your knowledge, understanding and historical skills - together they make up 100% of your final grade.
📝 Paper Overviews - Edexcel IGCSE History Revision Notes.
⏰Duration: 1 hour 30 mins
🏆Marks: 60 marks (50% of the overall grade)
📌Content: You’ll answer questions on two depth studies you’ve studied from the following:
- The French Revolution, c1780–99 – covering the causes of the French Revolution, the Reign of Terror, and the rise of Napoleon.
– Development of a nation: unification of Italy, 1848–70 – exploring Italian unification, Cavour, and Garibaldi’s campaigns.
– Germany: development of dictatorship, 1918–45 – from the Weimar Republic to the rise of Nazi Germany and Hitler’s leadership, including events like Hyperinflation 1923 and the Enabling Act.
– Colonial rule and the nationalist challenge in India, 1919–47 – focusing on Indian independence, Gandhi’s non-cooperation movement, and the partition of India.
– Dictatorship and conflict in the USSR, 1924–53 – examining Stalin’s rule, Five-Year Plans, and the Great Purges.
– A world divided: superpower relations, 1943–72 – tracing key Cold War events such as the Berlin Blockade, the Cuban Missile Crisis, and the start of the Arms Race.
– A divided union: civil rights in the USA, 1945–74 – covering the Civil Rights Movement, Martin Luther King Jr., and the fight against racial segregation and Jim Crow laws.
– South Africa: from union to the end of apartheid, 1948–94 – analysing Apartheid South Africa, the anti-apartheid movement, and Nelson Mandela’s role in achieving equality.
❓Question Types:
Study Extract (6 marks)
- Focus: What impression does the author give?
- Read the extract carefully and pick out clues about the author’s tone, attitude and viewpoint. Begin with “The author gives the impression that…” and back up your ideas with two short quotations or phrases. Aim for two short paragraphs that explain how the language shows the author’s opinion rather than summarising the content.
Explain Two Effects (8 marks)
- Focus: Cause and consequence.
- Write two separate paragraphs - one for each effect. Each should follow a simple chain: Point → Evidence → Explanation. For example, “One effect was… because… which led to…”. Use precise facts, dates or examples to show clear understanding. Avoid describing events; always show why something happened and what changed as a result.
How Far Do You Agree? (16 marks)
- Focus: Building a balanced argument.
- This extended essay carries the most marks. The examiner wants a sustained argument that weighs up different factors using clear evidence (AO1) and analysis (AO2). Follow these quick steps:
1.Decode the question – underline the time frame, stated factor and focus (cause, consequence, change or significance).
2.Choose your stance – great / some / limited agreement to give your essay direction.
3. Plan 2–3 factors – one supporting, one challenging, one showing change or breadth.
4.Use 2–3 precise facts per paragraph – names, dates, or statistics that prove your point.
5.End with a clear judgement – “On balance, X was more/less significant because…”
Timing tips:Plan 4–5 mins • Write 16–18 mins • Check 1–2 mins.
Keep paragraphs focused and make sure every sentence drives your argument.
Command Words in Edexcel International History
Command words show what skill to use:
- Explain: give clear reasons supported by evidence.
- Analyse: break causes or effects into parts and show how they connect.
- Evaluate: weigh evidence and reach a reasoned conclusion.</li>
- Assess / How far do you agree?: build a balanced case, then decide which factor mattered most.
Understanding the difference between these words is key — it shapes how you plan and how the examiner awards marks.
Ready to practise? Each question type links to a Primrose Kitten course with model answers and practice questions.
Edexcel International GCSE History Paper 2
🏰 Paper 2: Investigation and Breadth Studies
⏰Duration: 1 hour 30 mins
🏆Marks: 60 marks (50% of the overall grade)
📌Content - Online History IGCSE Course:
- You will answer questions on one of the following Edexcel International GCSE History Paper 2 investigation topics.
Part A: Historical investigation - In this section, you’ll focus on one investigation topic chosen by your school, analysing causes, effects, and interpretations of key international events.
- The origins and course of the First World War, 1905–18
- Russia and the Soviet Union, 1905–24
- The USA, 1918–41
- The Vietnam Conflict, 1945–75
- East Germany, 1958–90
Part B - Breadth study: This section explores long-term changes and developments across different societies. You’ll study one topic from the list below.
- America: from new nation to divided union, 1783–1877 – analysing the American Civil War, slavery, and reconstruction.
- Changes in medicine, c1848–c1948 – tracing medical breakthroughs, public health reforms, and World War impacts.
- Japan in transformation, 1853–1945 – focusing on Meiji restoration, industrialisation, and World War II.
- China: conflict, crisis and change, 1900–89 – covering revolutions, Mao Zedong, and economic reforms.
- The changing role of international organisations: the League and the UN, 1919–c2011 – comparing the League of Nations and United Nations.
- The changing nature of warfare and international conflict, 1919–2011 – examining military technology, nuclear deterrence, and Cold War conflicts.
- The Middle East: conflict, crisis and change, 1917–2012 – understanding the Arab-Israeli conflict, oil politics, and peace processes.
- Diversity, rights and equality in Britain, 1914–2010 – studying civil rights, immigration, and social change.
❓Question Types:
Part A – Historical Investigation
Describe two features (6 marks)
Focus on brief factual recall. Choose two clear features linked directly to the topic. Each feature earns up to 3 marks: 1 for identifying it + 2 for accurate detail. Keep it short: two sentences per feature.
Study Sources A and B (8 marks)
Question: How far does Source A support the evidence of Source B?
Read for content first, then provenance (who, when, purpose).
Step 1 – Identify 2 agreements or disagreements between A and B.
Step 2 – Quote or paraphrase evidence to show the link.
Step 3 – Briefly judge how far they support each other, using context from your knowledge.
Tip – “Support to some extent…” often earns higher marks than absolute agreement.
Study Extract C (16 marks)
Question: How far do you agree with this interpretation?
This extended answer tests AO1 + AO3 (analysis of interpretation).
Plan 4–5 mins → Write 16–18 mins.
Use a short essay structure:
- Para 1 – Explain why the interpretation has some truth (supported factor).
- Para 2 – Offer a rival view or limitation (challenge).
- Para 3 – Wider perspective or change over time.
End with a clear judgement: “On balance, this interpretation is valid/limited because…”
Avoid copying phrases from the extract – use them only as evidence to support your own analysis
.
Part B – Breadth Study (covering change over time)
Explain two ways in which … were different (6 marks)
Compare two periods, groups or situations. Identify a clear difference and explain why it exists. Use a comparison word: “While X …, Y …”.
Structure → Point → Evidence → Explanation.
Explain two causes (8 marks)
Show cause-and-effect clearly. Each cause = 1 paragraph:
1 sentence = cause, + 1–2 sentences = why it led to the outcome.
Use specific evidence (names, dates, events) and link each cause to the question focus.
Choice of question – How far do you agree? (16 marks)
This essay is identical in style to the 16-marker from Paper 1. Build a balanced argument, weighing at least 2–3 factors before reaching a judgement.
Follow the 5-step plan: decode → stance → select factors → use precise evidence → write judgement.
Common pitfalls: storytelling, missing comparisons, vague conclusions.
Command Words in Paper 2
- Describe – State key facts or features briefly and accurately.
- Explain – Give clear reasons showing cause, effect or difference.
- Analyse / Evaluate – Break down evidence and weigh its value.
- Assess / How far do you agree? – Build a balanced argument with a final, reasoned judgement.
Understanding these words is essential — they tell you exactly what the examiner wants and how to earn full marks.
Ready to practise? Each Paper 2 question type links to a Primrose Kitten course with model answers and revision activities.
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Edexcel IGCSE History Paper 1 | Past Papers
Edexcel IGCSE History Paper 2 | Past Papers
👉 Frequently Asked Questions – Edexcel International GCSE History Paper 1 (Depth Studies)
Q1. What topics are covered in Paper 1 of Edexcel International GCSE History?
Paper 1 is all about the Depth Studies — you’ll dive deep into two chosen periods such as Germany 1918–45, Superpower Relations 1943–72, or Civil Rights in the USA 1945–74. Each unit tells a different story of how people, politics and power changed over time. It’s your chance to show detailed knowledge and your ability to explain why events mattered.
Q2. How should I revise for Paper 1 Depth Studies like Superpower Relations or Germany?
Start with the big themes – causes, events, consequences. Make quick flashcards for names and dates, then use past questions to practise the skills. Remember: the 6- and 8-mark questions reward clarity and focus, not waffle. For the 16-marker, plan before you write and link every fact back to the question. Revision = remembering + reasoning.
Q3. How can I plan the 16-mark essay in Paper 1?
Give yourself 5 minutes to plan. Decide your view, pick 3 main factors, and jot down 2–3 facts for each. Then build your paragraphs with PEEL (Point → Evidence → Explanation → Link). Finish with a confident judgement line: “Overall, ___ was more important because ___.” Practising this structure is the fastest way to improve essay marks.
Q4. What are the most common Paper 1 question types?
You’ll always face a 6-mark “Study Extract”, an 8-mark “Explain two effects”, and a 16-mark “How far do you agree?” essay. They test different skills – reading between the lines, explaining causes, and building arguments. Mix up your revision: short-answer drills plus timed essays work best.
Q5. Are Paper 1 topics like Superpower Relations or Germany harder than others?
Not really – it’s all about confidence with evidence. Whichever your school chooses, aim for understanding over memorising. Knowing why something happened always beats listing what happened.
Q6. How much time should I spend on each Paper 1 question?
Rough guide = one minute per mark. That’s 6 minutes for 6 marks, 8 for 8 marks, and about 18–20 minutes for the 16-marker. Add 2 minutes at the end to check your conclusion makes sense and that every paragraph links back to the question.
Q7. What are common mistakes in Paper 1 Depth Studies?
Telling the story instead of analysing it.
Using vague phrases like “it was important because …” without saying why.
Forgetting to compare factors.
Use short, clear sentences and join ideas with “because → led to → therefore.” It keeps your writing sharp.
Q8. How can I practise Paper 1 exam technique effectively?
Grab real Paper 1 past papers for your two Depth Studies and time yourself. Compare your work to the mark scheme – did you use evidence and analysis in every paragraph? Little improvements here make big mark jumps later.
👉 Frequently Asked Questions – Edexcel International GCSE History Paper 2 (Investigation and Breadth Studies)
Q1. What is tested in Paper 2 of Edexcel International GCSE History?
Paper 2 has two parts. Part A is a Historical Investigation – topics like The First World War 1905–18 or The Vietnam Conflict 1945–75. Part B is a Breadth Study – themes like Medicine 1848–1948 or The Changing Nature of Warfare 1919–2011. You’ll analyse sources and show how history changes and connects over time.
Q2. How should I revise for Part A – Historical Investigation topics like the First World War or Vietnam?
Practise reading and comparing sources. Ask: What does it show? What does it not show? How reliable is it? Then link your own knowledge to back up what you say. Make mini-profiles for key figures and turning points so you can explain context quickly in the exam.
Q3. What type of interpretation question appears in Paper 2 Part A?
You’ll tackle a 16-mark “How far do you agree with this interpretation?” essay. Plan first → one paragraph agreeing, one challenging, one giving your judgement. Use precise examples from your investigation (e.g. Vietnam protests, Cold War tensions). Always finish with a clear verdict.
Q4. How can I score highly in the 8-mark source comparison question in Paper 2?
Look for two similarities or differences between Sources A and B. Quote briefly, explain why they match or clash, and use your knowledge to add context. Don’t list – judge: “Source A supports B to some extent because …”. That shows real analysis and gets you AO3 marks.
Q5. How should I prepare for Part B – Breadth Study topics like Medicine 1848–1948 or Warfare 1919–2011?
Use timelines to spot change and continuity. Group your notes by theme – for Medicine: causes, prevention, treatment; for Warfare: technology, tactics, impact. Practise “Explain two ways in which …” questions using these themes. Flashcards + timed practice = exam confidence.
Q6. What are the most common Paper 2 question types?
Part A often has “Describe two features” (6 marks), “Compare Sources” (8 marks), and an “Interpretation” essay (16 marks). Part B includes “Explain two ways” (6 marks), “Explain two causes” (8 marks), and “How far do you agree?” (16 marks). Practise both short and long answers so you’re ready for anything.
Q7. Are Paper 2 Breadth Studies more difficult than Paper 1 Depth Studies?
They test different skills. Paper 2 wants big-picture thinking – how and why things change across time. Paper 1 wants detail and precision. If you like patterns and themes, you’ll enjoy Paper 2.
Q8. What are common Paper 2 exam pitfalls?
Copying from sources without explaining, skipping provenance, or forgetting to use your own knowledge. Always combine “what it shows” with “what you know.” That’s the difference between Level 2 and Level 4 answers.
Q9. How can I balance time across Paper 2?
Spend around 45 minutes on Part A and 45 on Part B. Within each, stick to the minute-per-mark rule. Always save two minutes to check your final judgements make sense.
Q10. How can I revise efficiently for both parts of Paper 2?
Pair topics with shared themes each week – for example, The First World War (Part A) and Medicine 1848–1948 (Part B). Both cover war and technology, so you can see how change connects across centuries. Mix timed writing with lighter tasks like watching history clips or teaching a friend.
👉 How to revise for Edexcel IGCSE History
History revision isn’t just reading your notes over and over. The key is to practice skills as much as remembering content. Here’s how 👇
1. Practise source analysis 📜
Always ask: What does the source show? What does it not show? How reliable is it?
Don’t forget to bring in your own knowledge to back up what you say
2. Essay practice = exam confidence 🖊️
Use past papers to practise structuring essays (we've got all your links to the past papers on this page!)
PEEL is your friend (Point, Evidence, Explanation, Link 🔗)
Time yourself so you’re ready for the real exam pace ⏱️
3. Flashcards & timelines 📖
Use flashcards (digital or paper) for key facts and dates
Create timelines for each study unit - it helps you spot change and continuity more clearly
4. Learn exam command words ✍️
Words like “describe,” “how far do you agree,” and “explain,” all require different styles of answers. Make sure you know what the examiner is really asking!
5. Balance your revision 🎧
Mix writing practice with lighter tasks like watching history documentaries 🎥, listening to podcasts 🎧 or teaching a friend. It keeps things interesting and helps your memory stick.
🚀 Final words
The Edexcel IGCSE History exam tests both your knowledge of the past and your ability to think like a historian. With solid revision, lots of practice and a clear strategy, you’ll be ready to tackle those essays and source questions with confidence 💪.