This page contains practical tips on how to effectively structure a clear and comprehensive history essay. It will guide you on how to break down the question, use evidence well and logically organise your ideas.
History essays typically contain references to both primary and secondary sources, which are analysed to respond to the question or prompt. They are usually worth between 15 and 25 marks and require a clear thesis (or consistent argument), supported by evidence and analysis. History essays follow a formal structure, consisting of an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
Below is an example of a Stage 5 (Year 9-10) essay question based on World War One, depth study 23, Australians at War (World Wars I and II).
Focusing on the Syllabus dot point -
Significant events and the experiences of Australians at war (ACDSEH108)
Using sources, students investigate the following features of each war:
The role of women
Learning Outcomes -
The student:
Explains and assesses the historical forces and factors that shaped the modern world and Australia HT5-1
Identifies and evaluates the usefulness of sources in the historical inquiry process HT5-5
Explains different contexts, perspectives and interpretations of the modern world and Australia HT5-7
Applies a range of relevant historical terms and concepts when communicating an understanding of the past HT5-9
Skills Outcomes -
The student:
HT5-5 identifies and evaluates the usefulness of sources in the historical inquiry process
HT5-6 uses relevant evidence from sources to support historical narratives, explanations and analyses of the modern world and Australia
HT5-7 explains different contexts, perspectives and interpretations of the modern world and Australia
The first step is to carefully unpack the question by identifying its key components and focus areas. This will help you understand what is being asked of you and ensures that you address every part of the question in your response.
This is an example of a history question you are likely to get at this year level.
This is an annotated version of the same sample question seen on the left. It breaks down the main keywords/phrases in the question.
Step 1 - Identify the question prompt in the question (e.g. What, Identify, Summarise, etc...) so that you understand what the question is asking you to do, and how it wants you to answer it. You may underline or circle the verb. In this case, the question prompt is 'Assess', which requires you to make a judgment on how significant Australian women were to the war effort.
Step 2 - Look for any numbers or quantities in the question to understand how many points, effects, or arguments, etc., you need to include in your response. This ensures you fully address all parts of the question. In this case, we can infer that at least three main arguments need to be made as the essay is worth 20 marks.
Step 3 - Find any keywords in the question that command you to answer. In this case, a key word is 'significance' as it is what we are assessing/making a judgement of.
Step 4 - Identify the subject/topic that is inflicting the effect/causing change. In this case, the topic is 'Australian women's contributions', and we are trying to assess how significant the contributions of Australian women were.
Step 5 - Identify the subject/topic that is being impacted by the cause/source. In this case, the subject being impacted is the 'war effort.'
Step 6 - Keep your examples and evidence in your answer within the time frame specified in the question. In this case, the time frame World War 1.
If a criterion is provided to you, your next step is to examine it carefully and understand what is required in your answer. Your goal should be to meet the expectations of the highest mark band (highlighted below).
Below is an example of a general criterion for the sample question
(17-20 marks)
Presents a sustained, well-reasoned judgement on the significance of women's contributions in World War One.
Considers the long-term significance of women's roles in society and the war effort.
Demonstrates a comprehensive historical understanding with accurate and relevant evidence (specific examples).
Communicates ideas clearly with a logical structure (introduction, at least three body paragraphs and a conclusion).
Uses appropriate historical terms and concepts throughout the piece.
(13-16 marks)
Makes a clear and thoughtful assessment of the significance of women's contributions in World War One.
Shows some awareness of the long-term significance of women's roles in society and the war effort.
Demonstrates a sound historical understanding with evidence that is mostly relevant.
Essay is well-organised with a somewhat clear structure and appropriate terminology.
(9-12 marks)
Provides a general explanation of women's contributions with some attempt to assess their significance in the war effort.
Evidence is relevant but may be limited or partially explained.
May not explore the significance of women's roles in society and the war effort.
Structure is present but may lack depth and clarity. Uses some historical terms.
(5-8 marks)
Describes a few contributions of women with little to no assessment of their significance.
Limited use of evidence or examples.
Structure is basic or lacks clarity.
May misuse or not use historical terms.
(1-4 marks)
Demonstrates a vague understanding of the topic.
Provides little or no relevant examples.
Very limited structure and clarity.
Little to no use of historical terms.
(0 marks)
Completely off topic or lack of response.
The third step is to plan for your essay by creating a basic structure of your points, evidence and analysis before writing it. This will help you see your arguments and evidence clearly and maintain a logical structure. This should be brief, as you will be given the chance to elaborate and add detail to your points in your actual essay. For Stage 5, you should be aiming to include at least two pieces of evidence per body paragraph.
General Scaffold for your essay:
Introduction
A full sentence that restates the question or topic in your own words.
Introduce your thesis statement - this is your main argument or answer to the question.
Introduce your arguments/points briefly.
Body Paragraphs (have at least 3 body paragraphs)
Topic sentence - Start with your main argument/point of this paragraph.
Evidence 1- Support your point with evidence and examples. Evidence can include primary and secondary sources, statistics, research findings, credible quotes, etc.
Explanation - This is where you show your understanding by elaborating on your point/argument and explaining how and why your evidence supports your point.
Evidence 2- Support your point with evidence and examples. Evidence can include primary and secondary sources, statistics, research findings, credible quotes, etc.
Explanation - This is where you show your understanding by elaborating on your point/argument and explaining how and why your evidence supports your point.
Link - The last sentence should support your argument/point OR link this point to the next paragraph.
Conclusion
Restate your thesis (main argument) in a different way.
Summarise your key points.
End with a final thought that connects to the essay question/prompt.
TEEEEL Structure for Body Paragraphs:
T - Topic sentence
E - First piece of evidence to support the topic
E - Explanation
E - Second piece of evidence to support the topic
E - Explanation
L - Link
Essay Plan for the Sample Essay Question
Introduction
A full sentence that restates the question or topic in your own words.
World War I was a turning point in the roles of Australian women in society.
Introduce your thesis statement - this is your main argument or answer to the question.
Women participated in new and essential roles at home and abroad, which consequently changed the role of women in Australia.
Introduce your arguments/points briefly.
Women participated in roles such as nursing, medical work, volunteer work, propaganda assistance, farming and factory work.
Body Paragraph 1
Topic sentence - Start with your main argument/point of this paragraph.
The role of women was immensely significant, specifically working as nurses and medical workers.
Evidence 1 - Support your point with evidence and examples. Evidence can include primary and secondary sources, statistics, research findings, credible quotes, etc.
Photograph of wounded soldiers on a hospital ship called Gascon after they evacuated from Gallipoli.
Explanation - This is where you show your understanding by elaborating on your point/argument and explaining how and why your evidence supports your point.
Women saved lives.
Demonstrated that women could work in high-pressure environments.
Women restored the health of soldiers to return safely to their families, homes or continue serving.
Evidence 2 - Support your point with evidence and examples. Evidence can include primary and secondary sources, statistics, research findings, credible quotes, etc.
Nurse Clare Deacon who received the Military Medal for working under fire in Messines.
Explanation - This is where you show your understanding by elaborating on your point/argument and explaining how and why your evidence supports your point.
The role of nurses was recognised and respected by Australian society.
Nurses were shown to be significant and needed through their awards.
In the long term, the bravery of these nurses changed public perceptions of female capabilities.
Link - The last sentence should support your argument/point OR link this point to the next paragraph.
Nurses significantly contributed to the war effort and their bravery and work ethic was recognised, changing the perceptions of women in the workforce.
Body Paragraph 2
Topic sentence - Start with your main argument/point of this paragraph.
The role of women was significant, not just overseas but on the home front.
Evidence 1 - Support your point with evidence and examples. Evidence can include primary and secondary sources, statistics, research findings, credible quotes, etc.
A photograph of female clerks serving Australian servicemen in the Commonwealth Bank Australia.
Explanation - This is where you show your understanding by elaborating on your point/argument and explaining how and why your evidence supports your point.
Females worked as clerks, a position intended for men before the war.
Women kept the nation functioning while men served in the war.
In the long term, women's work in clerical roles changed the role of women in the workforce.
Evidence 2 - Support your point with evidence and examples. Evidence can include primary and secondary sources, statistics, research findings, credible quotes, etc.
Australian Red Cross and Country Women's Association which made care packages containing food, letter paper, soap and clothing.
Explanation - This is where you show your understanding by elaborating on your point/argument and explaining how and why your evidence supports your point.
These packages kept soldiers well cared for.
This boosted the morale of the soldiers overseas.
Link - The last sentence should support your argument/point OR link this point to the next paragraph.
Their efforts in the home front showed that women could contribute in national efforts while shaping the roles of women in the workforce in the long-term.
Body Paragraph 3
Topic sentence - Start with your main argument/point of this paragraph.
Australian women played a powerful role in influencing men to enlist through propaganda in World War I.
Evidence 1 - Support your point with evidence and examples. Evidence can include primary and secondary sources, statistics, research findings, credible quotes, etc.
A propaganda poster with the phrase, "Will you let your mother and sisters down?"
Explanation - This is where you show your understanding by elaborating on your point/argument and explaining how and why your evidence supports your point.
Persuasive techniques like guilt-tripping are used in this poster to encourage men to enlist as soldiers to support Australia.
This contributed to a rise in enlistment numbers.
Evidence 2 - Support your point with evidence and examples. Evidence can include primary and secondary sources, statistics, research findings, credible quotes, etc.
A propaganda poster with the phrase, "Women of Australia say - Go!"
Explanation - This is where you show your understanding by elaborating on your point/argument and explaining how and why your evidence supports your point.
A short, catchy phrase is used to encourage women to persuade men to enlist.
Promote an enthusiasm among women to support the war effort.
Link - The last sentence should support your argument/point OR link this point to the next paragraph.
Therefore, the role of women in propaganda showed their significant involvement in national affairs and how they helped increase recruitment for the war effort.
Conclusion
Restate your thesis (main argument) in a different way.
In conclusion, the contributions of Australian women in the World War I effort were highly significant.
Summarise your key points.
Through their service as nurses, medical workers, factory workers, farmers, propaganda supporters and volunteers, women supported the war in essential ways.
End with a final thought that connects to the essay question/prompt.
While they could not directly participate in combat, their role was no less critical to the running of Australia and long-term development.
The fourth step is to combine your writing skills and content knowledge to create an answer. Your answer should do what the question is asking of you and should address all parts of the question. Below is an example of an essay responding to the sample question.
Sample Question: Explain how education affected a person's social standing in ancient Egypt?
Colour Coded Sample Answer:
World War I was a turning point in the roles of Australian women in society. As men enlisted and fought on the front lines, women participated in new essential roles at home and abroad. These contributions went beyond traditional domestic duties women were normally associated with and were critical in sustaining the war effort. Women participated in roles such as nursing, medical work, volunteer work, propaganda assistance, farming and factory work. The immense significance of the involvement of Australian women is seen in their immediate support for the war and the long-term impact on female gender roles and recognition in Australian society.
The role of women was immensely significant, specifically regarding their service as medical workers and nurses. Over 2,000 Australian women served in the Australian Army Nursing Service (AANS), providing care to wounded soldiers in hospitals at home and abroad, such as in Europe, the Middle East, and hospital ships. Nurses worked in extremely dangerous conditions, often near the front lines. An example of this is a photograph of wounded soldiers on a hospital ship called Gascon, after they evacuated from Gallipoli. Nurses are seen in the photograph, tending to the casualties. This showcases their sense of urgency and action in caring for soldiers during battle. Their work did not just save lives but also showcased the woman's ability to serve in high-pressure, dangerous and exhausting conditions. Their bravery and professionalism of these women were often recognised and rewarded through medals such as the esteemed Military Medal for duty under fire. There were seven AANS nurses who received this award, including Clara Deacon who continued to treat patients under an enemy air raid in a clearing station in Messines, despite being off-duty. This shows that the role of women in nursing was respected and a crucial contribution to the war effort. Their service also helped transform public perceptions of the capabilities of women beyond the home.
The role of women was extremely significant, not just overseas but on the home front. In Australia, women played a critical role in keeping the country functioning during the war. They participated in occupations in factories, particularly producing uniforms, munitions and other essential war supplies - an industry once heavily dominated by Australian men. Other workers worked in farming, participated in clerical roles which only men were able to do before the war began. An example of this is a photograph of women working as clerks for the Commonwealth Bank Australia, assisting male soldiers. Volunteer work was also common in organisations such as the Australian Red Cross and the Country Women's Association, raising funds, making care packages with various food items, letter paper, soap and clothing. These women also wrote letters in their care packages to boost the morale of the soldiers. These contributions were significant in supporting both soldiers at war and their families at home. Their efforts in the home front showed that women could contribute to national efforts, whilst laying the groundwork for future changes in women's rights and participation in the workforce.
Australian women played a powerful role in influencing men to enlist through propaganda during World War 1. Although they could not serve in combat, many women were active participants in campaigns that encouraged men to enlist in the Australian Imperial Force (AIF). Women were featured in recruitment posters, often conveying themes of shame, a sense of duty and loyalty. An example of this is a poster with the phrase, "Will you let your mother and sisters down?" This poster uses persuasive techniques like guilt-tripping to convince men to enlist, contributing to a rise in enlistment numbers and supporting troops on the front lines. Another poster contains the phrase, "Women of Australia say - Go!" which uses a short, catchy phrase to encourage women to help convince the men in their lives to participate in the war with enthusiasm, and to support Australia and Britain. Some women wrote articles and joined pro-war groups that worked to increase enlistment numbers. White feathers were often given by women to symbolise cowardice, often guilt-tripping men and inspiring a sense of duty to fight for and protect Australia. These efforts were significant in increasing recruitment during crucial and needed periods of the war. Therefore, women's roles in propaganda showed their involvement in the affairs of the nation and their support in increasing recruitment numbers for the war effort.
In conclusion, the contributions of Australian women in the World War I effort were highly significant. Their efforts were not just recognised and respected during the war but also changed the Australian workforce, allowing women to participate in it. Through their service as nurses, medical workers, factory workers, farmers, propaganda supporters and volunteers, women supported the war in essential ways. While they could not directly participate in combat, their role was no less critical to the running of Australia and long-term development.
Key:
Introduction
Body paragraph
Topic sentence
Evidence
Explanation
Link
Conclusion
Sample Answer (not colour coded):
World War I was a turning point in the roles of Australian women in society. As men enlisted and fought on the front lines, women participated in new essential roles at home and abroad. These contributions went beyond traditional domestic duties women were normally associated with and were critical in sustaining the war effort. Women participated in roles such as nursing, medical work, volunteer work, propaganda assistance, farming and factory work. The immense significance of the involvement of Australian women is seen in their immediate support for the war and the long-term impact on female gender roles and recognition in Australian society.
The role of women was immensely significant, specifically regarding their service as medical workers and nurses. Over 2,000 Australian women served in the Australian Army Nursing Service (AANS), providing care to wounded soldiers in hospitals at home and abroad, such as in Europe, the Middle East, and hospital ships. Nurses worked in extremely dangerous conditions, often near the front lines. An example of this is a photograph of wounded soldiers on a hospital ship called Gascon, after they evacuated from Gallipoli. Nurses are seen in the photograph, tending to the casualties. This showcases their sense of urgency and action in caring for soldiers during battle. Their work did not just save lives but also showcased the woman's ability to serve in high-pressure, dangerous and exhausting conditions. Their bravery and professionalism of these women were often recognised and rewarded through medals such as the esteemed Military Medal for duty under fire. There were seven AANS nurses who received this award, including Clara Deacon who continued to treat patients under an enemy air raid in a clearing station in Messines, despite being off-duty. This shows that the role of women in nursing was respected and a crucial contribution to the war effort. Their service also helped transform public perceptions of the capabilities of women beyond the home.
The role of women was extremely significant, not just overseas but on the home front. In Australia, women played a critical role in keeping the country functioning during the war. They participated in occupations in factories, particularly producing uniforms, munitions and other essential war supplies - an industry once heavily dominated by Australian men. Other workers worked in farming, participated in clerical roles which only men were able to do before the war began. An example of this is a photograph of women working as clerks for the Commonwealth Bank Australia, assisting male soldiers. Volunteer work was also common in organisations such as the Australian Red Cross and the Country Women's Association, raising funds, making care packages with various food items, letter paper, soap and clothing. These women also wrote letters in their care packages to boost the morale of the soldiers. These contributions were significant in supporting both soldiers at war and their families at home. Their efforts in the home front showed that women could contribute to national efforts, whilst laying the groundwork for future changes in women's rights and participation in the workforce.
Australian women played a powerful role in influencing men to enlist through propaganda during World War 1. Although they could not serve in combat, many women were active participants in campaigns that encouraged men to enlist in the Australian Imperial Force (AIF). Women were featured in recruitment posters, often conveying themes of shame, a sense of duty and loyalty. An example of this is a poster with the phrase, "Will you let your mother and sisters down?" This poster uses persuasive techniques like guilt-tripping to convince men to enlist, contributing to a rise in enlistment numbers and supporting troops on the front lines. Another poster contains the phrase, "Women of Australia say - Go!" which uses short, catchy phrases to encourage women to help convince the men in their lives to participate in the war with enthusiasm, and to support Australia and Britain. Some women wrote articles and joined pro-war groups that worked to increase enlistment numbers. White feathers were often given by women to symbolise cowardice, often guilt-tripping men and inspiring a sense of duty to fight for and protect Australia. These efforts were significant in increasing recruitment during crucial and needed periods of the war. Therefore, women's roles in propaganda showed their involvement in the affairs of the nation and their support in increasing recruitment numbers for the war effort.
In conclusion, the contributions of Australian women in the World War I effort were highly significant. Their efforts were not just recognised and respected during the war but also changed the Australian workforce, allowing women to participate in it. Through their service as nurses, medical workers, factory workers, farmers, propaganda supporters and volunteers, women supported the war in essential ways. While they could not directly participate in combat, their role was no less critical to the running of Australia and long-term development.
The final step is to review your response to ensure it addresses all parts of the question and meets the criteria. If a marking criterion is provided, keep it beside you and use it as a checklist while re-reading your answer to confirm you have covered everything required.
Example of reviewing your response with the marking criteria
Feel free to set up your work like below:
sSample Answer:
World War I was a turning point in the roles of Australian women in society. As men enlisted and fought on the front lines, women participated in new essential roles at home and abroad. These contributions went beyond traditional domestic duties women were normally associated with and were critical in sustaining the war effort. Women participated in roles such as nursing, medical work, volunteer work, propaganda assistance, farming and factory work. The immense significance of the involvement of Australian women is seen in their immediate support for the war and the long-term impact on female gender roles and recognition in Australian society.
The role of women was immensely significant, specifically regarding their service as medical workers and nurses. Over 2,000 Australian women served in the Australian Army Nursing Service (AANS), providing care to wounded soldiers in hospitals at home and abroad, such as in Europe, the Middle East, and hospital ships. Nurses worked in extremely dangerous conditions, often near the front lines. An example of this is a photograph of wounded soldiers on a hospital ship called Gascon, after they evacuated from Gallipoli. Nurses are seen in the photograph, tending to the casualties. This showcases their sense of urgency and action in caring for soldiers during battle. Their work did not just save lives but also showcased the woman's ability to serve in high-pressure, dangerous and exhausting conditions. Their bravery and professionalism of these women were often recognised and rewarded through medals such as the esteemed Military Medal for duty under fire. There were seven AANS nurses who received this award, including Clara Deacon who continued to treat patients under an enemy air raid in a clearing station in Messines, despite being off-duty. This shows that the role of women in nursing was respected and a crucial contribution to the war effort. Their service also helped transform public perceptions of the capabilities of women beyond the home.
The role of women was extremely significant, not just overseas but on the home front. In Australia, women played a critical role in keeping the country functioning during the war. They participated in occupations in factories, particularly producing uniforms, munitions and other essential war supplies - an industry once heavily dominated by Australian men. Other workers worked in farming, participated in clerical roles which only men were able to do before the war began. An example of this is a photograph of women working as clerks for the Commonwealth Bank Australia, assisting male soldiers. Volunteer work was also common in organisations such as the Australian Red Cross and the Country Women's Association, raising funds, making care packages with various food items, letter paper, soap and clothing. These women also wrote letters in their care packages to boost the morale of the soldiers. These contributions were significant in supporting both soldiers at war and their families at home. Their efforts in the home front showed that women could contribute to national efforts, whilst laying the groundwork for future changes in women's rights and participation in the workforce.
Australian women played a powerful role in influencing men to enlist through propaganda during World War 1. Although they could not serve in combat, many women were active participants in campaigns that encouraged men to enlist in the Australian Imperial Force (AIF). Women were featured in recruitment posters, often conveying themes of shame, a sense of duty and loyalty. An example of this is a poster with the phrase, "Will you let your mother and sisters down?" This poster uses persuasive techniques like guilt-tripping to convince men to enlist, contributing to a rise in enlistment numbers and supporting troops on the front lines. Another poster contains the phrase, "Women of Australia say - Go!" which uses short, catchy phrases to encourage women to help convince the men in their lives to participate in the war with enthusiasm, and to support Australia and Britain. Some women wrote articles and joined pro-war groups that worked to increase enlistment numbers. White feathers were often given by women to symbolise cowardice, often guilt-tripping men and inspiring a sense of duty to fight for and protect Australia. These efforts were significant in increasing recruitment during crucial and needed periods of the war. Therefore, women's roles in propaganda showed their involvement in the affairs of the nation and their support in increasing recruitment numbers for the war effort.
In conclusion, the contributions of Australian women in the World War I effort were highly significant. Their efforts were not just recognised and respected during the war but also changed the Australian workforce, allowing women to participate in it. Through their service as nurses, medical workers, factory workers, farmers, propaganda supporters and volunteers, women supported the war in essential ways. While they could not directly participate in combat, their role was no less critical to the running of Australia and long-term development.
Final Mark: This sample essay would get in the top (17-20 marks) band as it achieves all elements of the criteria.
Marking Criteria:
(17-20 marks)
Presents a sustained, well-reasoned judgement on the significance of women's contributions in World War One.
Considers the long-term significance of women's roles in society and the war effort.
Demonstrates a comprehensive historical understanding with accurate and relevant evidence (specific examples).
Communicates ideas clearly with a logical structure (introduction, at least three body paragraphs and a conclusion). Throughout the essay, ideas have been clearly communicated. There is an introduction, three detailed and distinct body paragraphs and a conclusion.
Uses appropriate historical terms and concepts throughout the piece.