How to write a good Higher Essay

1. How to write a good Higher Essay • Each question is marked out of 20. • Structure. Introduction and Conclusion = 4 marks. • Knowledge and Understanding = 6 marks. • Argument/Evaluation =10 marks.

2. Introduction= 2 marks • Set the question in context. This means stating the date and a brief background to the event you are asked to write about. • Outline the points or factors that are relevant to answering the question. • State the line of argument you are going to follow to answer the question.

3. Knowledge and Understanding • This will get 6 marks. • Marks will be awarded for relevant knowledge used to address the question. If a point is developed that will get another mark.

4. Argument/Evaluation • This will get 10 marks. • Marks will be awarded if the student writes an answer that is relevant and relates to the question. • Explains, analyses, debates and assesses rather than simply describes or narrates. • Refers to all parts of the question and to the “isolated factor” in particular.

5. Conclusion = 2 marks • Sums up the question in the form of a balanced conclusion based on the evidence and arguments used in the answer.

6. The 4 sentence conclusion • Sentence 1 – “In conclusion...” – indicated the conclusion has started. • Sentence 2 – “On the one hand...” – provides a summary of some points and indicated balance. • Sentence 3 – “On the other hand...” – completed the summary and balance. • Sentence 4 – “Overall...” provides a final answer to the main question.

7. First Higher essay: • To what extent was racism the main reason for changing attitudes towards immigration in the 1920s?