Recommended Reading
Many students study Modern History and it is of course important to prepare well for the examinations. Try to read books on key topics - not just your main textbook. There are many books on Stalin for instance. Some books might be rather difficult - but still try to read sections and you will gain more insight into these periods of study. If you are studying Modern History there are many excellent programmes and films that you can record and use. Clearly WW II is covered very well and as a teacher I built up a good stock of material over the years. Some was used in coursework as well.
Make good use of the internet. There are many websites that you can use e.g. historylearningsite.co.uk and bbc.co.uk. Remember that the examination boards have websites as well such as Edexcel. Make sure that you know from your teacher which exact syllabus you are doing - the exam board and the number of the syllabus. Therefore the information will be very relevant to you.
Probably the most useful thing that you can do is to look over and practise previous exam papers. Look for the sort of questions that come up. Make sure that you are used to the style of the examination. Again look at the exam board's website. Make sure that you are familiar with the format of the exam and know how many questions - sections you are required to do. Is there any choice of areas - questions ? There usually is !
Always look for the number of marks that is awarded for an answer and decide how much you are going to write. Remember to always try to impress the examiner - it is a good idea to insert dates into your answer - where relevant and they do not take long to write down ! Always volunteer information - but do not make your answers too long. Always answer the question, not something like the question.
When you are in the examination room, watch your timing. Make sure that you answer the right number of questions. Choose carefully ! Aim to finish the exam and therefore leave a little time at the end for answer checking. Watch your English skills as well.
All the best with your studies and be very successful in History ! Allow enough time for your revision too.
