How to Revise Warfare and British society, c1250–present and London and the Second World War, 1939–45 — Edexcel GCSE History
Warfare and British society, c1250–present and London and the Second World War, 1939–45 is a topic in the Edexcel GCSE History specification. This guide covers learning objectives, examiner tips, common mistakes, and key terminology to help you revise effectively.
Examiner Tips for Warfare and British society, c1250–present and London and the Second World War, 1939–45
- Ensure you can explain how factors like government, technology, and society influenced warfare.
- Use specific case studies (Falkirk, Agincourt) to support arguments about change and continuity.
- Practice linking medieval developments to later periods to demonstrate understanding of the long-term theme.
- When discussing battles, focus on the 'reasons for the outcome' rather than just a narrative of events.
Common Mistakes in Warfare and British society, c1250–present and London and the Second World War, 1939–45
- Focusing only on the battles without linking them to broader societal changes.
- Failing to address the 'continuity and change' aspect of the thematic study.
- Neglecting the impact of war on civilians, focusing solely on military tactics.
- Confusing the roles of different social classes in the feudal army structure.
Key Marking Points
- Composition of the medieval army (infantry, archers, mounted knights).
- Link between social structure and army command.
- Impact of new weapons and formations (longbow, schiltrons, gunpowder, cannon).
- Decline of the mounted knight.
- Recruitment and training of combatants in the feudal army.
- Impact of war on civilians (feudal duties, army plunder).