However, it can be very easy to learn if you establish a study plan from the beginning. There are three topics and the mandatory document topic, within which are three case studies. That means there are six areas of study so, every week, cover one each night. That leaves the seventh night to revise something you struggled with.
The research topic is worth 100 marks so it’s well worth investing lots of time into getting it right. Make it clear and concise. Try to have at least one primary source. Ask your teacher to review it frequently.
The document question is one of a possible three. It is essential that all three are given equal study time as there is no guarantee what the question will be . Try and learn a few quotes for each one from another source as it will impress the examiner.
Try to get the document done in about 40 minutes, this gives you some breathing room.
It’s nearly impossible to predict the essay questions. My advice is to learn the facts rather than individual essays. Read the title of the essay several times before you start. Make sure you reference each point back to the question. Keep within the date parameters, otherwise you will lose marks. Remember you only have 42.5 minutes per essay so get your facts on the page fast. Practise writing essays constantly to keep each one within the time limit. Ask your teacher to correct them. Always time yourself. If time is short, use bullet points.
The best advice I can give right now is to remain calm. There is ample time to master the history course if you plan your study well and constantly practise questions from the past papers – it will pay off come exam time.
Cormac Power
Trinity College Dublin
Pharmacy