Pearson Edexcel · International A Level · WHI01–WHI04
History — Keywords & Key Terms — Definitions Glossary (2026)
Pearson Edexcel International A Level History
Topic-by-topic keywords, key terms and definitions for precise exam language—separate from our revision checklists (topic coverage) and formula sheets (equations).
Keywords & Key Terms — definitions
Examiner-style keywords and definitions organised by syllabus topic. Terms are tagged Essential (start here), Core (typical exam standard), and Advanced for harder distinctions — tick each row when you can recall it. Your progress is saved in this browser for this list.
Pearson Edexcel International A Level History (WHI01–WHI04)
Pearson Edexcel International A Level History (WHI01–WHI04)
Pearson Edexcel International A Level History
Pearson International A Level History (WHI units) combines breadth studies with depth investigations and source evaluation — paper structure follows the current International Advanced Level specification for 2026.
Mark schemes: Use PEEL-style paragraphs: point, evidence, explanation, link. Sources: compare tone and purpose; consider silences. Essays: counter-argument paragraph before judgement. Chronology must be accurate — examiner reports flag anachronisms and vague ‘eventually’ narratives.
Active recall: 0 / 10 terms ticked
| Recalled | Topic | Level | Keyword | Definition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Disciplinary concepts | Core | Evidence | Primary vs secondary — how historians construct accounts. | |
| Disciplinary concepts | Core | Perspectives | Nationalist, Marxist, revisionist readings. | |
| Disciplinary concepts | Core | Causation | Trigger, preconditions, structural causes. | |
| Disciplinary concepts | Core | Consequence | Intended vs unintended; winners and losers. | |
| Disciplinary concepts | Advanced | Contingency | Role of chance/key individuals vs structural forces. | |
| Sources & interpretations | Core | Authenticity | Is the source what it claims to be? | |
| Sources & interpretations | Core | Audience & purpose | Shape content — propaganda vs private memo. | |
| Sources & interpretations | Core | Witting vs unwitting testimony | Deliberate vs accidental evidence. | |
| Sources & interpretations | Core | Synthesis | Combine sources to build supported argument. | |
| Sources & interpretations | Advanced | Historiographical debate | Name schools and their core claims. |
Pair this with our revision checklists, formula sheets hub and past paper finder.
History (WHI01–WHI04) — Keywords & Key Terms FAQ
- What is on this Pearson Edexcel International A Level History keywords and key terms list?
- It is a topic-organised glossary of important history terms with short, exam-style definitions aligned to Pearson Edexcel International A Level History (WHI01–WHI04). It is designed for “define”, “state”, “outline” and “explain” questions where precise vocabulary earns marks.
- How should I use this History glossary alongside past papers?
- Tick terms when you can recall them without reading the answer, then check your wording against mark schemes. Pair vocabulary practice with past papers for International A Level History (WHI01–WHI04) so you apply terms in context.
- Is this the same as a revision checklist or a formula sheet?
- No. Revision checklists help you track which syllabus topics you have covered and your confidence—separate pages on Tutopiya. Formula sheets summarise equations and quantitative relationships. This page is only a definitions and key-terms glossary for History.
- Can I download this History keywords and key terms list for free?
- Yes. After a quick free sign-up you can download a UTF-8 CSV (opens in Excel or Google Sheets) or open a print-friendly page and save as PDF. Browsing the list on the page is free.
- Is this History list aligned to the WHI01–WHI04 specification?
- Topic groupings and wording follow Pearson Edexcel International A Level History for Pearson Edexcel International A Level. Always confirm final learning objectives and any regional options in your official specification and recent examiner reports for your exam session.
- Why focus on definitions instead of full notes?
- Mark schemes reward correct technical terms and clear links between ideas. A compact glossary lets you drill the exact language examiners expect for History at International A Level, separate from longer notes or topic trackers.