Cambridge A-Level History 9389: Command words and keywords

Cambridge International A-level History (9389) uses the standard Cambridge command words. Mark schemes use levels-based marking for extended responses. A-level expects more depth, use of evidence and critical evaluation. Source skills require analysis of provenance, purpose and reliability.

Command words

Command word	What to do	Common mistake
State	Short answer	Overwriting
Identify	Choose from source or knowledge	Adding explanation
Describe	What happened; key features	Adding explanation
Explain	Why or how; use “because”	Only describing
Suggest	Infer from source; propose	Stating without inference
Compare	Similarities and differences	Listing separately
Contrast	Differences only	Including similarities
Assess	Judge importance; conclude	Description only
Evaluate	Judge; conclude with evidence	No conclusion
Discuss	Explore aspects; conclude	One-sided
Why	Give reasons	Description only
How far	Judge extent; conclude	No judgement
To what extent	Judge degree; conclude	No judgement
What	Factual recall or extraction	Mixing with “why”

Source-based questions

• Use the source—answers must be supported by the source
• Provenance—origin, author, date, purpose when asked
• Reliability—evaluate in context of the question
• Inference—what you can work out, not just what it says

Historical keywords

Term	Use correctly	Avoid
Treaty	Formal agreement between states	”Agreement”
Armistice	Ceasefire	Peace treaty
Reparations	Payments for war damage	”Fines”
Propaganda	Biased information	”Advertising”
Dictatorship	One ruler; no opposition	”Tyranny”
Democracy	Ruled by people; elections	”Freedom”
Revolution	Fundamental change	”Change”
Coup	Seizure of power by force	Revolution
Imperialism	Extension of power over territories	”Colonialism”
Nationalism	Pride in nation; desire for independence	”Patriotism”
Depression	Severe economic downturn	”Recession”
Inflation	Rising prices	”Expensive”
Blitzkrieg	Rapid military attack	”Attack”
Cold War	Tension without direct conflict	”War”
Significance	Importance	”Important”
Cause	Reason	”Because”
Consequence	Result; often unintended	”Effect”

Tips for History 9389

1. Source questions—use the source; consider provenance when asked
2. Assess/Evaluate—conclusion with justification
3. Develop points—match depth to mark allocation
4. Use historical terms—check mark scheme
5. Past papers + mark schemes show level descriptors

How Tutopiya helps

Tutopiya supports History 9389 with tutors who use past papers and examiner reports. Explore A-level resources or book a free trial.

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Based on Cambridge International A-level History 9389 syllabus. Check the latest syllabus for your exam series.