In the writing of essays, learners must be able to structure their argument in a logical and coherent manner. They need to select, organise and connect the relevant information so that they are able to present a reasonable sequence of facts or an effective argument to answer the question posed. It is essential that an essay has an introduction, a coherent and balanced body of evidence and a conclusion. In responding to essay questions learners should be able to:

• Plan and structure an essay

• Demonstrate a thorough knowledge and understanding of the topic

• Select and use relevant information from their own knowledge to answer the question

• Develop and sustain a relevant line of argument

• Write logically and coherently

Typical questions may be phrased using the following descriptors, for example: 'Critically discuss ', 'Explain to what extent …', 'Comment on…', 'Evaluate …', 'Assess …'



The North Vietnamese and National Liberation Front (Viet Cong) were fighting to liberate their country from American interference. This was arguably the main reason why the Americans failed to defeat them. Critically discuss this statement in the context of the war that was fought in Vietnam between 1963 and 1973.


Explain to what extent the leadership of Mobutu Sese Seko and Julius Nyerere had an impact on the political and economic development of both the Congo and Tanzania after attaining independence.


The Black Panther Party was solely responsible for the emergence of 'Black Power' in the United States of America in the 1960s. Do you agree with the above statement? Use relevant examples to support your line of argument.


The withdrawal of soldiers from Vietnam signalled the defeat of the United States of America's policy of containment. Do you agree with the statement? Substantiate your answer using relevant evidence from the period 1965 to 1975.


Explain to what extent the economic policies of the Congo and Tanzania were successful from independence up to the 1980s.


Evaluate the roles that Malcolm X and Stokely Carmichael played in popularising the Black Power Movement in the 1960s.


PW Botha's attempt at reforming the system of apartheid was a dismal failure. Assess the validity of this statement in the context of intensified internal resistance against Botha's regime in the 1980s.


Nelson Mandela believed that 'negotiation, not war, was the path to a solution' for a democratic South Africa. Critically evaluate this statement in the context of South Africa's process of negotiations that unfolded from 1990 to 1994.


Discuss to what extent Mikhail Gorbachev's reform measures led to the disintegration of the Soviet Union in 1992. Use relevant historical evidence to support your answer.
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