GCSE advanced workbook step by step on how to answer exam-style questions at a Grade 9 standard. Explains in detail the mark scheme requirements and how to fulfill them
WORKBOOK ANSWERS
AQA GCSE History
Workbook
Elizabethan England, c.1568–1603
This Answers document provides suggestions for some of the possible answers that you could give for the
questions asked in the Workbook. They are not exhaustive and other answers may be acceptable, but they
are intended as a guide to give teachers and students feedback.
How do I answer the exam-style questions
Below is a guide to answering the types of questions on the Elizabethan England exam paper and
throughout the Workbook. A generic mark scheme is given for each question type.
Interpretation questions (8 marks, 10 minutes)
For these questions, aim to cover two aspects of the interpretation and to write two paragraphs. Use your
own knowledge to back up or challenge aspects of the interpretation. Link all points to the question. If the
question asks you ‘how convincing’ the interpretation is, it is asking you to consider how accurate it is to a
historian in terms of its content.
• Level 1 (1–2 marks): Basic comments to say why the interpretation is convincing. An answer at this
level will lack explanation.
• Level 2 (3–4 marks): Supports comments with specific knowledge of one part of the interpretation.
• Level 3 (5–6 marks): Covers more than one aspect of the interpretation, with specific knowledge to
support.
• Level 4 (7–8 marks): Complex evaluation with sustained judgement of more than one aspect of the
interpretation. Shows very good knowledge and understanding of the period studied.
Explanation questions (8 marks, 10 minutes)
For these questions, use precise detail and link back to the question as much as you can. Try to write two
paragraphs and cover two or three aspects (e.g. two paragraphs to explain the importance of an event or
person).
• Level 1 (1–2 marks): Basic explanation of consequence(s). Identifies consequence(s) that are
relevant to the question. No real explanation at this level.
• Level 2 (3–4 marks): Simple explanation of one consequence using some knowledge and
understanding to support ideas.
• Level 3 (5–6 marks): Developed explanation of consequences, using a range of accurate knowledge
and understanding to support the explanations. Gives more precise detail and covers one or two
consequences.
, Elizabethan England
• Level 4 (7–8 marks): Complex explanation of consequences, using a range of accurate and detailed
knowledge and understanding to provide evidence to support the explanations. Should include
analysis of the consequences. Two or more consequences covered.
Account questions (8 marks, 10 minutes)
This type of question asks you to write an account of something within Elizabethan England. The question
will usually involve analysing consequences. It is important to avoid storytelling. Try to go through the topic in
your head and to choose significant points before writing up the answer.
• Level 1 (1–2 marks): Basic analysis of change. Basic knowledge and understanding shown in a
narrative account.
• Level 2 (3–4 marks): Simple analysis of change. Knowledge and understanding shown in a narrative
account that includes simple understanding of consequence(s).
• Level 3 (5–6 marks): Developed analysis of change. A chronological account using precise
knowledge and understanding to analyse one consequence or impact of change.
• Level 4 (7–8 marks): Complex analysis of change. Building on Level 3, answers at this level will
analyse change(s) using a range of precise knowledge.
This question will be based around something to do with Elizabethan England (e.g. a house or theatre). You
will know the topic prior to the exam and your teacher will give you some information to help you prepare for
the question. Please note that the Elizabethan England, c.1568–1603 Workbook does not cover the
Historical Environment question as this changes year on year. Please see your teacher for more information
on this.
AQA GCSE (9–1) History Workbook: Elizabethan England, c.1568–1603
Chronology
The chronology of Elizabeth’s reign
Elizabeth’s accession to the throne: 1558; resulted in a sole female ruler, potentially weakened by not
being married.
Parliament started looking for an heir: 1562; potentially weakened Elizabeth’s position and led to
rebellion.
Mary Queen of Scots’ flight to England: 1568; created a figurehead for Catholic rebellion.
The Northern Rebellion: 1569; showed that Catholic nobles were keen to depose Elizabeth.
Elizabeth’s excommunication by the Pope: 1570; absolved Catholics in England from allegiance to
Elizabeth.
The Ridolfi Plot: 1571; showed that influential Catholics were turning against Elizabeth.
Francis Drake’s voyage around the world: 1577; benefited the English economy and helped with the
development of the navy.
The Babington Plot: 1586; weakened Elizabeth’s position and yet again showed the religious disunity in
England.
The execution of Mary Queen of Scots: 1587; harmed Elizabeth’s reputation, but removed the figurehead
of a Catholic plot.
The Spanish Armada: 1588; its defeat helped Elizabeth gain more support in later years.
The Essex Rebellion: 1601; in spite of Elizabeth’s successful reign she could still face noble opposition that
threatened stability.
Elizabeth’s death: 1603; the end of the Tudor monarchy.
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